Don Mills is a neighborhood located in the Scarborough district of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is situated approximately 15 kilometers northeast of downtown Toronto and has a population of around 30,000 residents.
Geography
Don Mills is nestled between Steeles Avenue East to the north, Eglinton Avenue East to the south, Don Valley Parkway to the west, and Lawrence Avenue East to the east. The neighborhood is predominantly residential, with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and high-rise apartments.
The terrain in Don Mills is relatively flat, with some gentle slopes towards the Don Valley Parkway. The area has several parks and green spaces, including the large 20-acre Don Mills Park, which features walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds.
History
Don Mills was first developed in the post-World War II era as a planned community, designed to provide housing for returning veterans and their families. The neighborhood was built on farmland that had been owned by the Don family since the early 20th century. In the 1950s and 1960s, Don Mills experienced rapid growth, with many homes being constructed along the main streets.
Demographics
The population of Don Mills is diverse, with a mix of long-time residents and newer arrivals. According to the 2016 Canadian Census, the neighborhood has:
- A population density of approximately 4,500 people per square kilometer
- An average household income of around $80,000 CAD
- A median age of 38 years old
- A mix of families with children (34% of households), single-person households (27%), and senior citizens (17%)
Economy
Don Mills has a strong local economy, with several commercial areas, including:
- The Don Mills Centre: an outdoor shopping mall featuring retail stores, restaurants, and services.
- Lawrence Avenue East Retail Strip: a busy strip mall with shops, cafes, and services.
- Industrial Park: a commercial area with warehouses, offices, and distribution centers.
Education
Don Mills has several schools serving the neighborhood’s children:
- Don Mills Middle School
- Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Elementary School
- Cedarbrae Public School
- Sir William Gage Public School
Transportation
Don Mills is well-connected to other parts of Toronto via public transportation, including:
- The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) bus network, with multiple routes serving the neighborhood.
- Don Valley Parkway: a major highway providing access to downtown Toronto and the 401 Highway.
- GO Transit buses: offering service to Union Station in downtown Toronto.
Parks and Recreation
Don Mills features several parks and green spaces:
- Don Mills Park: a large park with sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails.
- Milliken Park: a smaller park featuring a children’s play area and picnic tables.
- Several community centers and swimming pools are also located in the neighborhood.
Other Amenities
Don Mills offers several amenities, including:
- A public library branch
- A shopping mall with a variety of retail stores and restaurants
- Multiple banks and financial institutions
- A hospital (St. Michael’s Hospital) is located nearby.
- Several community centers offering programs for children and adults.
Overall, Don Mills is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Scarborough, Toronto, with a mix of residential and commercial areas, excellent public transportation links, and plenty of parks and green spaces.