The region of West Bend is also referred to as “Where Dundas Bends West”, due to the railway line that runs along its border area. Bloor Street serves as its boundary while Keele Street marks its edge; to the east lies the loved recreational pathway known as the West Toronto Railpath. High Park can be found south of Bloor Street. Is a destination in Toronto. The proximity of Humberside Collegiate and Western Technical Commercial High School makes this neighbourhood in the part of the city a choice, for many families.
History Of West Bend, Toronto
West Bend is a district located in the part of Toronto with a historical background influenced by its industrial beginnings and strong ties, to the city’s railway expansion efforts that occurred in the late 1800s and early 1900s era when it was primarily focused on industrial activities such as factories and railway operations that greatly contributed to its development over time. The name “West Bend” of this area signifies its positioning along a curve, on the Canadian Pacific Railway route.
As the city grew larger in size and population over the years West Bend underwent a transformation into a neighbourhood characterized by the construction of numerous Victorian and Edwardian style houses during the early 1900s. Its appeal was further heightened by its proximity to both the Junction and High Park which drew in workers and families and played a role in its development as a neighbourhood predominantly inhabited by members of the working class. As time passed West Bend saw an increase in its diversity welcoming waves of immigrants who settled in the area and enriched its tapestry.
Today, West Bend is a blend of maintaining its allure and embracing revitalization efforts as old warehouses are transformed into creative hubs and contemporary residences seamlessly integrate with the area’s rich architectural history.
Lifestyle
In the part of Toronto lies West Bend—a community steeped in history influenced by its beginnings and intertwined with the city’s railway expansion story over time. During the 1800’s and 1900’s era specifically saw West Bend flourishing as an industrial hub, with factories and railways at the heart of its prosperity. The moniker “West Bend” itself denotes its position along a curve, in the Canadian Pacific Railway route.
As the city grew larger in size and population increased in West Bend during the 1900s era when Victorian and Edwardian style houses were constructed mainly for purposes instead of commercial usage decayed away with time gradually turning it into a working class neighbourhood due, to its strategic location near the Junction and High Park that attracted both working individuals and families alike. It witnessed a makeover, over time as new immigrants arrived in waves injecting elements into the community enhancing its vibrancy and diversity further.
In the day West Bend remains steeped, in its history but is also, in the midst of a revitalization effort where traditional warehouses are being transformed into vibrant creative hubs and contemporary residences seamlessly integrate with the areas historical structures The strong community spirit and industrial legacy remain integral to the neighbourhoods character and identity.
West Bend, Toronto Parks & Facilities
In the part of Toronto lies West Bend—a neighbourhood that gives its residents access to numerous parks and recreational amenities. Situated close to High Park—one of Toronto’s green spaces—West Bend offers opportunities for engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and cycling or simply unwinding amidst the lush surroundings. High Park boasts attractions such as playgrounds and sports facilities alongside spots for picnicking and admiring the zoo animals and seasonal cherry blossoms—an ideal blend of leisure and recreation, for locals.
In West Bend itself are smaller community parks such as Baird Park and Perth Square Park where kids can play and families can picnic in the spaces or enjoy some sports in the open fields nearby. There’s also Sorauren Park with a community garden and farmers market where outdoor activities like soccer and baseball are popular among locals.
The community centre, near Dundas West provides a range of activities and amenities, like gyms and fitness classes for residents to enjoy while also hosting community gatherings and events. The West Toronto Railpath is a trail that cyclists and joggers frequent as it winds through the neighbourhood offering views.
In terms West Bend offers its residents a combination of both intimate parks, along with top notch recreational amenities, which makes it a perfect spot for outdoor lovers and families seeking natural surroundings and community centred events.
West Bend, Toronto Transit
West Bend is situated in the part of Toronto. Is known for its great transportation connections, with reliable public transit options available in the area. One of the access points is the Dundas West subway station on the Bloor Danforth Line which allows for fast travel to downtown Toronto and various other areas within the city. In addition to the subway system in place at West Bend is also the Bloor GO Station nearby which offers commuter rail services through the GO Transit network making it a convenient choice for those commuting to and from the Greater Toronto Area.
Many TTC streetcar and bus lines pass through. Close to West Bend area like the 504 King and 505 Dundas streetcars that link the neighbourhood to areas, like King Street West and Dundas Street while also connecting to Roncesvalles Village. The 41 Keele and 47 Lansdowne buses operate in the vicinity facilitating transportation options.
West Bend is a choice for commuters and individuals who depend on transportation as it provides a variety of transit choices such as subway lines and buses that offer convenient connections to Toronto and other areas.
West Bend, Toronto Elementary, Secondary High Schools
West Bend is an conveniently located community, in Toronto’s region that is surrounded by the lush greenery of High Park and The Junction area nearby. The neighbourhood is famous for its streets adorned with trees and a blend of residences that foster a strong sense of community spirit. The close proximity of West Bend to transportation hubs like the Dundas West subway station and the Bloor GO Station adds to its appeal for both families and commuters. Residents have access to parks, trendy shopping areas and an array of amenities, in the neighbourhood. In West Bend communities families enjoy options available such as public schools alongside Catholic and private institutions for elementary and secondary high school, for their children’s education.
- Public Schools: 6
- Catholic Schools: 4
- Private Schools: 4
Schools by Category
Public Schools:
- Indian Road Crescent Junior Public School
- Howard Junior Public School
- Keele Street Public School
- Annette Street Junior and Senior Public School
- Humberside Collegiate Institute
- Western Technical-Commercial School
Catholic Schools:
- St. Cecilia Catholic School
- St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School
- Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School
- Loretto College School
Private Schools:
- High Park Montessori School
- Hudson College
- The York School
- Upper Canada College
West Bend, in Toronto offers a variety of choices including schools as well as Catholic and private institutions to cater to the community’s needs for quality education and a vibrant neighbourhood setting with quiet streets and convenient access to parks and public transportation.
West Bend, Toronto Homes
West Bend residences were constructed during the 1800s and early 1900s in architectural styles such as vernacular cottages as well as Victorian and Edwardian designs along with Arts and Crafts influences. These homes are predominantly constructed with brick or siding materials. Are either detached or detached structures. The sizes of these residences vary greatly with numerous larger detached homes being divided into apartments. The neighbourhood showcases topography and street layouts adorned with tree lined streets. The houses have gardens. Show a sense of pride in ownership.