Getting Around Scarborough: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Scarborough is a suburban area in Toronto where walkability can vary greatly. While some neighborhoods, particularly around major intersections and shopping centers like Scarborough Town Centre, provide a mix of shops, restaurants, and amenities within close proximity, much of the area remains car-dependent. Residential zones often lack the necessary infrastructure for pedestrians, requiring the use of cars for errands. For travelers, picking a favorable location near urban hubs within Scarborough can provide a more convenient walking experience.

Scarborough is well-served by Toronto's public transit system, primarily through the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), which offers numerous bus routes and subway lines connecting to central Toronto and other regions in the Greater Toronto Area. With the planned subway extension to replace the retired Scarborough RT, connectivity is expected to improve further in the future, making it relatively easy for travelers to navigate the area without a car. This accessibility makes it feasible to live in Scarborough while leveraging the wider amenities and opportunities of downtown Toronto.

Scarborough poses challenges for cyclists due to its limited bike-friendly infrastructure. While there are some bicycle lanes and paths, the overall design of roads favors car traffic. The terrain can also be quite hilly, adding difficulty for biking enthusiasts. This makes cycling less practical for routine commutes or errands, especially for those uncomfortable cycling alongside vehicular traffic. For travelers, biking may serve more as a recreational activity rather than a primary mode of transportation.