Kennedy Park in Focus: Land Use, Demographics and History
Historical Development Overview
Kennedy Park, also known as Scarboro Junction, is a historically working-class neighborhood in Scarborough, Toronto. The area developed in the early 20th century around the Canadian National and Canadian Pacific railway lines, which played a crucial role in shaping its urban form. The mid-20th century saw significant suburban expansion, with the construction of post-war bungalows and low-rise apartment buildings to accommodate Toronto’s growing population. The neighborhood continues to evolve, with ongoing redevelopment projects aimed at increasing density and improving infrastructure.
Demographic
Kennedy Park is home to a diverse population, with a strong presence of immigrant communities. As of the 2021 census, the neighborhood had approximately 17,000 residents, with a median age of around 40. Over 65% of the population consists of immigrants, with significant communities from South Asia, the Philippines, and the Caribbean. English remains the primary language spoken at home, but Tagalog, Tamil, Bengali, and Urdu are also common. The neighborhood consists of a mix of single-family households and renters, with a median income below the citywide average.
Land Use & Built Form
Kennedy Park features a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial land uses. The area is characterized by low-density single-family homes, apartment buildings, and pockets of mixed-use developments. The commercial corridor along Eglinton Avenue East serves as the primary economic hub, offering retail, dining, and service establishments. The western part of the neighborhood includes employment lands, with industrial and warehouse facilities supporting local jobs. Public parks and green spaces, such as Corvette Park and Maywood Tot Lot, provide recreational opportunities for residents.
Planning and Policy Context
Kennedy Park falls within the Toronto Official Plan’s growth strategy, with an emphasis on intensification along key transit corridors. The Eglinton Crosstown LRT, which will connect to Kennedy Station, is expected to enhance mobility and attract new development. The neighborhood is also subject to zoning bylaws that regulate land use, density, and building heights to balance growth with community needs. Recent planning initiatives focus on improving public transit, increasing affordable housing options, and revitalizing underutilized commercial areas.
Economic & Social Activity
Kennedy Park has a strong local economy driven by small businesses, retail centers, and industrial employment areas. The neighborhood's proximity to major transit routes, including GO Transit and the TTC subway system, makes it an attractive location for both businesses and residents. Community life is enriched by places of worship, schools, and local events that foster social cohesion. The area’s affordability and connectivity continue to make it a desirable location for newcomers and long-term residents alike.
References
City of Toronto. (2021). Kennedy Park neighborhood profile: Demographic and housing data. https://www.toronto.ca
City of Toronto. (2023). Toronto Official Plan: Land use and growth management policies. https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/official-plan-guidelines/
Statistics Canada. (2021). Census Profile – Kennedy Park, Toronto, Ontario. Government of Canada. https://www.statcan.gc.ca
Metrolinx. (2023). Eglinton Crosstown LRT project update. https://www.metrolinx.com
Toronto Transit Commission. (2023). Kennedy Station redevelopment and transit expansion plans. https://www.ttc.ca