Etobicoke

Etobicoke is a large and diverse area located in the northwestern part of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is one of the six municipal boroughs that make up the City of Toronto.

Geography

Etobicoke covers an area of approximately 84 square kilometers (32 square miles), making it one of the largest neighborhoods in Toronto. It is bounded by the Humber River to the west and north, Lake Ontario to the south, and the city’s Midtown neighborhood to the east. Etobicoke is a long, narrow strip of land that stretches from the lakefront to the Humber River, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Neighborhoods

Etobicoke can be divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm:

  1. The Kingsway: A upscale neighborhood known for its beautiful parks, tree-lined streets, and luxury homes.
  2. Humber Bay Shores: A waterfront area with high-rise condos, shops, and restaurants.
  3. Islington: A vibrant commercial district with a mix of shopping centers, restaurants, and community facilities.
  4. Rexdale: A densely populated residential area with a mix of low-rise apartments and single-family homes.
  5. Kipling: A commercial neighborhood with a focus on Asian cuisine and shops.
  6. The Airport Area: A industrial and commercial district surrounding Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Demographics

Etobicoke has a diverse population of over 350,000 people, making it one of the most populous neighborhoods in Toronto. According to the 2016 census, the area is home to:

  • 42% of residents are visible minorities (mainly Asian and African)
  • 23% of residents have a university education
  • 34% of households have an income above $60,000 per year

Economy

Etobicoke has a thriving economy, with a mix of industrial, commercial, and retail activities:

  1. Toronto Pearson International Airport: The airport is a major employment hub, providing jobs in aviation, logistics, and hospitality.
  2. Retail and shopping centers: Etobicoke is home to several large shopping malls, including Sherway Gardens and Dixie Outlet Mall.
  3. Commercial districts: Islington and Kipling commercial areas offer a range of shops, restaurants, and services.

Amenities

Etobicoke offers a wide range of amenities, including:

  1. Parks and green spaces: The area has numerous parks, such as Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Green Valley Park, and Etobicoke Creek Trail.
  2. Libraries: Two public libraries serve the neighborhood: the Etobicoke Civic Centre Library and the Islington Public Library.
  3. Community centers: There are several community centers offering programs for children and adults, such as the Etobicoke Community Recreation Center and the Islington Community Center.

Education

Etobicoke is served by a variety of schools, including:

  1. Public schools: The Toronto District School Board operates numerous public elementary and secondary schools in the area.
  2. Catholic schools: The Toronto Catholic District School Board also has several schools in Etobicoke.
  3. Private schools: There are several private schools and colleges offering programs for students of all ages.

Transportation

Etobicoke is easily accessible by public transportation:

  1. Subway lines: The area is served by the Bloor-Danforth subway line ( Line 2) and the Scarborough RT (Line 3).
  2. TTC buses: Over 20 TTC bus routes connect Etobicoke to other parts of Toronto.
  3. GO Transit: Several GO Transit bus and train lines serve the area.

Recreation

Etobicoke offers a variety of recreational activities, including:

  1. Sports: The neighborhood has numerous sports facilities, such as the Etobicoke Sports Centre and the Islington Arena.
  2. Cycling: The area has several bike paths and cycling routes, including the Humber River Trail.
  3. Walking and jogging: Etobicoke’s many parks and green spaces make it a popular destination for walkers and joggers.

History

Etobicoke was first settled in the late 18th century by European farmers, who were attracted to the area’s fertile land and access to the Humber River. In the mid-19th century, the area became a popular destination for immigrants from Ireland and England, who established themselves as merchants, traders, and professionals.

In the early 20th century, Etobicoke underwent significant development, with the construction of new housing, commercial centers, and infrastructure projects. The area continued to grow throughout the mid-20th century, becoming one of Toronto’s most populous and diverse neighborhoods.

Today, Etobicoke is a thriving community that values diversity, inclusivity, and economic growth. Its unique blend of residential, commercial, and industrial areas makes it an attractive destination for people from all walks of life.