Welcome to Huron Park. The newness of this community in south Kitchener means that everyone is a fresh arrival. The area spans from Bleams Road to south of Huron Road, Fischer-Hallman and Strasburg Road. Within those borders is the Huron Natural Area, stretching out over 107 hectares, a perfect spot for nature lovers, hikers and photographers with its wetlands, streams and meadows.
Huron Park strives to avoid the trappings of suburb living. It packs in more, thanks to ample greenspaces, golf courses and playgrounds. The park itself is a central point for the community. Dog walkers, speed walkers and moms with strollers share this quiet space, a world away from all the new developments. Shoppers have plenty of malls to explore and golfers are just minutes away from at least three major courses.
Huron Park finds a harmonious balance between suburbia and urban living. In recent years, development has brought new mini-communities into the region. New houses and townhomes abound, with commercial properties in the mix. Residents like their peace and quiet and appreciate that there is a pristine park and picturesque farmers’ field at their doorsteps. Amenities are never far away, whether it’s a shopping mall or a skating rink.
The plethora of outdoor play sets in backyards is just one indicator families are drawn here. The houses are ample, often with three bedrooms and more, and their value is enticing to both growing and maturing families. Middle and upper management types put down roots here, attracted for its proximity to everything from highways to downtown nightlife. The lion’s share of residents is in the ages 20 to 44 range.
You might think Huron Park properties would be a bargain, given it’s not in the urban core. Not so. This is a hot area because it offers proximity to everywhere you need (from highways to schools) while still having oodles of parks and greenspaces. That’s not to say that renting or buying here is out of reach. Properties span the gamut, from executive homes to semi-detached townhomes and condo units.
Huron Park may be on the outskirts of Kitchener, but there are an adequate number of bus routes servicing the area with easy connections to the nearby Huron Business Park and to Conestoga College. Highway access (to Hwy. 401 and 8) is no more than 10 minutes away and the Waterloo International Airport is a 15 to 20 minute drive away.
In this freshly minted neighbourhood, amenities have kept pace with development. A new high school and elementary school ensure commutes are short for dropping off the kids. The new YWCA-Jean Steckle Childcare Centre completes the roster of family friendly facilities on hand. Need towels, tiles or toilet paper? The Sunrise Shopping Centre is now open for business with a good selection of big-box stores such as Walmart and Canadian Tire.
Huron Park is still finding its groove and balancing commercial and residential properties. It can feel a bit soul-less, with mammoth industrial areas and treeless streets. But you can see that the area is starting to gel. It’s less than a decade old and still has some growing to do. On the horizon is the new 17-hectare South Kitchener District Park at Fischer-Hallman and Huron Roads (construction set for 2017).
For a fun family outing, head to this heritage property to get an up-close look at old-school farming practices.
more infoIf you’re looking for lawn furniture or a hot tub to complete your dream home, this is the place.
more infoThis new location on Max Becker Drive is packed with all the things any gym rat could want. It even offers babysitting, freeing parents up to take fitness classes or pump iron.
more infoWhen bribery is necessary to get your teens to clean their rooms, a visit here does wonders. The ice cream is top notch and you can mix in whatever toppings you desire.
more infoConveniently located across the road from GoodLife Fitness, this modern pub has quickly become a favourite local hangout. Come Wednesdays for cheap wings and come anytime for gooey, delicious poutine or European beer.
more infoNature lovers rejoice! This pristine slice of parkland is chock full of bird species (more than 60), butterflies and winding trails. Join in on activities such as Earth Day in April.
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