Overview
New Toronto, located along Toronto’s western beaches, is transitioning from an industrial area to residential development. The neighbourhood is diverse, with a mix of cultures, incomes, and a large senior population. It offers a bike trail, easy TTC and Go Transit access, affordable homes, and quick downtown connections via Lake Shore Boulevard.
History
New Toronto began as a working-class town in the 1890s, growing rapidly after the Grand Trunk Railway arrived in 1906. With Goodyear Tire as its biggest employer, it became a hub for manufacturing. Though it was amalgamated with Etobicoke in 1967, it retained its blue-collar feel. Today, as industry fades, new home developments are attracting more professionals, giving the area a fresh vibe.
Lifestyle
The “Lakeshore Village” shopping district on Lakeshore Boulevard West is a lively spot with fast food, family restaurants, and a variety of stores like markets, bakeries, delis, coffee shops, and convenience stores. It’s also a popular filming location, with many scenes from the Police Academy movies shot here.
Homes
New Toronto features small bungalows and modest two-storey houses built mostly between the 1910s and 1950s, with larger homes closer to the lake. A recent addition is the Lakeshore Village subsidized housing development, which has a unique, funky vibe thanks to its artists’ co-op. New home buyers should also watch the area north of Birmingham Road, between Islington and Kipling Avenues, for upcoming developments.
Recreation
New Toronto has several waterfront parks, including Colonel Samuel Smith Park with its Wetlands-Wildlife Restoration trail and the Lakeshore Yacht Club. Nearby parks like Cliff Lumsden, Prince of Wales, and Rotary Peace Park offer views, skating, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The unique figure-eight skating trail in Colonel Samuel Smith Park is a highlight. The New Toronto Seniors Centre hosts local events and offers programs, while the New Toronto Public Library is just south of Lake Shore Boulevard.
Transportation
Bus service on Lake Shore Boulevard West connects to Mimico and Long Branch Go stations, as well as downtown Toronto’s Union Station. Drivers can reach the Harbourfront in just 15 minutes via Lake Shore Boulevard or the Gardiner Expressway.
New Toronto Stats
Neighbourhood content from neighbourhoodguide.com