The West Toronto Junction has kept its quaint small town vibe intact even though it’s situated on the side of Toronto city. Interestingly the railway tracks surrounding this area, which played a role in its development, have also shielded it from the gentrification seen in other parts of Toronto. It may be off the path but it’s definitely worth exploring and discovering for its unique charm and character. The West Toronto Junction remains reasonably priced. Attracts a range of residents, from young families to artists and urban professionals alike – making it a truly authentic neighbourhood in Toronto’s landscape. It boasts a heritage and community spirit with its Dundas Street West lined with local shops, esteemed schools, parks and a library. The population is a mix of backgrounds from areas, to a more raw urban vibe adding to the neighbourhood’s unique charm.
History Of West Toronto Junction, Toronto
The West Toronto Junction originated as a railway settlement, during the 1870s due to the presence of railway lines and the establishment of stations and railyards in the vicinity that drew in workers and their families to settle there initially. The residences along Dundas Street primarily accommodated these laborers and their households. A ban on alcohol sales along Dundas Street West was implemented in response to issues, with drinking and disorderly behavior. Remain enforced until the year 2000. In 1882 a young and ambitious lawyer named D.W Clendenan teamed up with his uncle, D.J Laws to acquire the Carlton Race Course property, where the first Queen’s Plate race took place in 1860 under the ownership of the Keele family.
Following this purchase they officially registered the West Toronto Junction subdivision plan. By 1884 properties were being actively sold through advertisements, in newspapers encouraging prospective buyers to settle in West Toronto Junction for its stunning views of Lake Ontario and High Park. The area boasted five miles of paved streets. Over 1500 lush shade trees meticulously planted throughout the neighbourhood.
In 1888 the West Toronto Junction reached a point where it could become officially recognized as a Village and, by 1891 as a Town with 5,000 people living there at the time Churches soon emerged along with libraries and schools to cater to the growing communities needs During its days West Toronto Junction witnessed periods of prosperity and economic downturn In 1909 due to the rising need, for improved infrastructure and roads residents voted in favor of merging with the City of Toronto
The historical extent of West Toronto Junction was broader than what’s displayed on this site; it covered not the specified boundaries but also what is commonly known today as Bloor West Village and High Park neighbourhoods along, with sections of Junction Triangle and St Clair Avenue West plus the retail hub identified as Stock Yards Village.
Lifestyle
The commercial structures along Dundas Street West are truly stunning. Add charm to this shopping district renowned for its independent stores specializing in home décor items. In addition to shops catering to children and offering health services there is a selection of eateries and bars in the area. Dundas Street and St.John’s Road intersection is often referred to as Little Malta due to the presence of Canadian businesses operating there.
West Toronto Junction, Toronto Parks & Facilities
The people living in this area are a distance away, from High Park where they can enjoy various recreational activities like playgrounds and ice rinks amidst the lush greenery nearby There are also four community parks in the vicinity that offer amenities such as playground equipment wading pools and skating rinks The YMCA located at Perth and Annette has programs catering to both kids and seniors while the Perth Dupont Public Library organizes engaging activities, for children including preschoolers
West Toronto Junction, Toronto Transit
In the West Toronto Junction area you can catch buses on Dupont Street, Dundas Street and Keele Street along with Symington Avenue and Lansdowne Avenue. The buses on Dupont and Dundas take you to the Yongue University Spadina subway line while the Keele, Lansdown and Symington buses connect to stations on the Bloor Danforth subway line. If you are driving you can reach downtown in 10 minutes using either Bloor Street or Dundas Street.
West Toronto Junction, Toronto Elementary, Secondary High Schools
In West Toronto Junction. Commonly known as “The Junction”. You’ll find a family friendly community, with a cultural heritage and a touch of history to it! This area boasts a range of elementary and secondary high school choices for kids of all ages. From elementary to school. Including public schools as well as Catholic and private institutions.
- Public Schools: 6
- Catholic Schools: 4
- Private Schools: 3
Public Schools:
- Annette Street Junior and Senior Public School
- Indian Road Crescent Junior Public School
- Perth Avenue Junior Public School
- Humberside Collegiate Institute
- Western Technical-Commercial School
- The Student School)
Catholic Schools:
- St. Cecilia Catholic School
- St. Rita Catholic School
- Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School
- Loretto College School
Private Schools:
- High Park Montessori School
- Hudson College
- The York School
In the West Toronto Junction area schools cater to diverse needs which makes it a popular choice, for families looking for quality education options for their children.
West Toronto Junction, Toronto Homes
The West Toronto Junction showcases some of Toronto’s architecture with its charming tree lined roads, above Annette Street adorned with elegant Victorian homes crafted from vibrant red bricks set upon spacious lots featuring ornate details like rooftop turrets inviting front porches and grand archways.The area boasts examples of Queen Anne and Arts and Crafts style residences while to Dundas Street stand Victorian style houses that are smaller in size and less elaborate, in design. The properties in the section of the neighbourhood tend to have lots compared to others in the area. Many of the houses situated along the main streets feature multiple units or apartments that assist in covering maintenance costs and property taxes.