The West Don Lands is a planned community overseen by Waterfront Toronto to ensure that it adheres to design and sustainability standards while being a vibrant neighbourhood suitable, for people of all ages who seek to reside work and enjoy life in the bustling downtown of Toronto in the 21st century era It is also referred to as the “Canary District,” where art installations play a significant role, in enriching the cultural ambiance of the area. There are plenty of food and coffee shops around here so you don’t have to go to grab a latte or some delicious sushi or baked treats!
The Cooper Koo Family YMCA and the beautiful 18 acre Corktown Common park are spots in the neighbourhood for locals to gather and enjoy.. Just a short walk to the east lies the Distillery District with its array of shops and restaurants that people love to explore. With transportation right at your doorstep in this area it’s no wonder why this neighbourhood stands out for its convenience and easy access to transit options.
History Of West Don Lands , Toronto
The West Don Lands used to be a centre for commerce and industry. It fell into disrepair over the years that followed its heyday. In 2005 things began to look up for the West Don Lands when Waterfront Toronto’s ambitious revitalization proposals for the area got the light from the city council in Toronto. During that year West Don Lands was honored with the Toronto Urban Design Award of Excellence, in the Vision and Master Plan category. The dream became a reality in 2015 when West Don Lands became the host of the Athletes Village, for the Pan Am and Parapan Am Games event—an event that left a lasting impact on the community’s landscape and spirit after its conclusion.
The athletes village has now been transformed into a blend of condominiums and student housing for George Brown College students to call home. A striking row of trees adorned with plaques adorns the sidewalk in Canary District—a tribute called “41 Trees” symbolizing unity, among the 41 nations that participated in the Pan Am games. This touching installation stands as a reminder of the sportsmanship and camaraderie that once graced this modern neighbourhood. The Canary District got its name from the Canary restaurant, which is now undergoing revival as part of a mixed use project, at the intersection of Front and Cherry Streets serving as the gateway to this community.
Lifestyle
You can easily. Cycle to reach the St.Lawrence Market in a span of time, along with the Distillery District and Harbourfront nearby.The Canary District resembles a village with a vibrant pedestrian walkway, on Front Street that features shops and eateries lining the way.
West Don Lands, Toronto Parks & Facilities
The West Don Lands forms a part of the Blue Edge revitalization initiative, by Waterfront Toronto that blends urban living with waterfront views in the cityscapes heartland near the water’s edge. In this community enclave are spaces and pathways that seamlessly link residents to the waterfront experience.
The standout park in this collection is Corktown Common nestled within the Canary District area. Spanning 18 acres of greenery and natural surroundings is a playground equipped with refreshing water features for children to enjoy alongside inviting picnic spots and a designated area for furry companions to roam freely. Trails wind through this setting leading visitors on walks while a versatile pavilion complete with a stage promises to be the hub for various community gatherings and events. Sugar Beach Park and Underpass Park are both award winning attractions nestled in this neighbourhood’s vicinity.
Embracing the community connectivity concept prevalent in this area, West Don Lands forms part of a 1800 km trail system that encompasses The Martin Goodman Trail—a path spanning the entirety of Toronto’s waterfront. Furthermore West Don Lands offers a connection to the Lower Don Recreational Trail that meanders along the Don River and grants access to the Evergreen Brickworks to the north. The Cooper Koo YMCA is a centre that acts as a central gathering place for the community with meeting rooms and communal areas available for use by all members of the neighbourhood or visitors passing through town. Spanning 82 000 feet in size.
Equipped with a sizable gymnasium area along with both an indoor swimming pool and fitness studios on site. This cutting edge establishment will provide programs catered to the residents such as wellness activities and classes focused on physical health maintenance; fun filled day camps for youngsters; engaging community initiatives; as well as an impressive 30 000 square foot green rooftop space, for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.
West Don Lands, Toronto Transit
The West Don Lands is an up and coming community in Toronto with access to transportation choices that enhance its connectivity to the rest of the city’s amenities and services.The local transit system serves the needs of both existing residents and new developments in the area.
The West Don Lands neighbourhood in Toronto is seamlessly connected to the city’s transportation system through a mix of public transit options, like buses and subways and maintained cycling paths alongside roads that make getting around convenient for residents and visitors alike! The upcoming advancements and enhancements are set to make commuting smoother and more accessible for everyone living in the area.
West Don Lands, Toronto Elementary, Secondary, High schools
The West Don Lands is a growing district in Toronto that’s famous for its urban renewal projects and its close proximity to the Don River riverbank area of the city’s downtown core. As this locality undergoes transformation and progressions it is progressively transforming into a family oriented area with educational choices accessible to the residents. Within the neighbourhood and its nearby vicinities are a variety of schooling options including institutions as well as Catholic and private schools which cater to students, from elementary through high school levels.
- Public Schools: 4
- Catholic Schools: 4
- Private Schools: 3
Public Schools:
- St. Paul Catholic School
- Jarvis Collegiate Institute
- Central Technical School
- Jarvis Collegiate Institute
Catholic Schools:
- St. Paul Catholic School
- St. Joseph’s College School
- Monsignor Fraser College
Private Schools:
- The York School
- Branksome Hall
- Royal St. George’s College
The West Don Lands area offers a range of options to suit requirements and preferences, for families looking for top notch schooling opportunities The neighbourhood boasts a combination of public schools as well as Catholic and private institutions to accommodate its diverse and expanding community.
West Don Lands, Toronto Homes
The condos, in West Don Lands are medium height structures featuring exteriors made of a mix of materials, like glass and steel or brick to blend in with the neighbourhoods style and natural surroundings. They offer a variety of living spaces including condominiums and townhouses.