Southside is the area that runs along the Maumee River and State Route 2, just south of Toledo’s downtown. It offers affordable housing and a family-friendly atmosphere, however prices in this area have been increasing. Home prices and rental rates vary depending on the area and condition.
Accessibility and Transportation in Southside, Toledo
Public Transit
Southside is efficiently served by the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA), ensuring residents have reliable public transportation options. Bus routes such as Route 18, Route 25, and Route 30 traverse the neighborhood, connecting it to downtown Toledo, the University of Toledo, and other significant districts. Additionally, the South Toledo Transit Hub serves as a central node for transfers, facilitating seamless commutes for both work and leisure.
Highways/Commuter Routes
For those who prefer commuting by car, Southside offers excellent access to major highways and commuter routes. The neighborhood is conveniently situated near Interstate 75 (I-75) and Interstate 280 (I-280), providing direct routes to downtown Toledo and neighboring cities such as Maumee and Sylvania. Major arterial roads like Columbia Avenue and West Central Avenue are used for daily commutes and easy access to shopping centers, schools, and recreational facilities.
Walkability Score
South Toledo has a Walkability Score of 46, reflecting its status as a less walkable neighborhood. While some daily errands can be accomplished on foot, most of the neighborhood may requires a vehicle or public transportation for daily errands and longer trips. The 43609 zip code is classified as a car-dependent neighborhood.
Proximity to Major Hubs
South Toledo’s strategic location places it in close proximity to several key landmarks and institutions:
- University of Toledo: Located about 5 miles from South Toledo, the University of Toledo offers educational and employment opportunities. The campus is easily accessible via I-75, making it a convenient destination for students, faculty, and staff residing in the neighborhood.
- Downtown Toledo: A short 15-minute drive from South Toledo, downtown Toledo serves as the city’s central business district, featuring a variety of restaurants, shops, cultural venues, and corporate offices.
- Toledo Zoo & Acquarium: The Toledo Zoo is a beloved family destination renowned for its extensive collection of animal exhibits and commitment to conservation. Adjacent to the Zoo is the Toledo Zoo Aquarium. Both of these facilities provide employment and a recreational outlet.
- The University of Toledo Medical Center: Located about 5 miles from South Toledo, the University of Toledo Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services. Its proximity ensures that residents have quick access to medical care and specialized services.
- Toledo Express Airport: Located roughly 20 miles from South Toledo, the airport offers convenient access to national and international flights. The drive to the airport typically takes around 25 minutes, making travel for business or leisure straightforward for residents.
Shopping and Dining
South Toledo offers a diverse array of shopping and dining options, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. The neighborhood is home to several retail centers and local businesses that contribute to its vibrant atmosphere.
Shopping
- Broadway South Shopping Center: This bustling shopping center is a hub for retail therapy, featuring a variety of stores that cater to your everyday needs. From clothing to home goods, you’ll find it all in one convenient location.
- Heritage South Plaza: This retail plaza is home to a diverse array of shops and services, making it a go-to destination for both shopping and leisure. Whether you’re hunting for a gift or treating yourself, Heritage South Plaza has you covered.
Dining
South Toledo doesn’t have a huge dining scene but there are several casual options that local residents enjoy, including:
- El Tipico Restaurant: A well-loved spot for traditional Mexican food.
- Gaters Bar And Grill: Grab chicken wings, a sandwich, or a famous jumbo angus burger with a side of fries and this casual bar.
- Crox’s Bar & Grill: Another local watering hole, Crox’s serves up hearty dishes in a friendly setting.
Recreation
South Toledo is home to several parks and green spaces that provide residents with opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and community engagement. Here’s a closer look at some of the notable parks in the area:
- Highland Park: This park features open green spaces, playgrounds, and walking paths, making it a popular spot for families and individuals looking to enjoy outdoor activities. It often hosts community events.
- Golden Rule Park: Golden Rule Park offers picnic areas and sports facilities.
- Ashley Park: A smaller neighborhood park, Ashley Park provides a quiet space for residents to enjoy nature. It features playground equipment and green areas for children to play and families to relax.
- Danny Thomas Park: This park provides recreational opportunities for all ages. It includes sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas, and is close to the Maumee River.
- Sterling Park: Sterling Park has a baseball field and soccer flied and is located on Swan Creek. It is a well-maintained park for outdoor fun and social interaction.
Major Employers in South Toledo
South Toledo is close to several major employers across different industries, contributing to the local economy and providing numerous job opportunities for residents.
- Location: Approximately 4 miles from South Toledo
- Industry: Healthcare
- Description: ProMedica is one of the largest healthcare providers in the region, offering a wide range of medical services, including hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialized clinics. With over 16,000 employees, ProMedica plays a significant role in the local economy and community health.
- Location: About 5 miles from South Toledo
- Industry: Higher Education and Research
- Description: The University of Toledo is a major employer in the area, with over 6,000 staff and faculty members. The university is a center for academic excellence, research, and innovation, providing numerous employment opportunities in education, administration, and support services. University of Toledo Employment
- Location: Located within South Toledo
- Industry: Energy and Utilities
- Description: Toledo Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy, is a key player in the energy sector, providing electricity to millions of customers. The company employs thousands of professionals in various roles, from engineering and technical positions to customer service and management. FirstEnergy Careers
- Location: Approximately 6 miles from South Toledo
- Industry: Building Materials Manufacturing
- Description: Owens Corning is a global leader in insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composites. With a significant presence in the Toledo area, the company offers numerous job opportunities in manufacturing, engineering, and corporate functions. Owens Corning Careers
The University of Toledo Medical Center
- Location: Approximately 5 miles from South Toledo
- Industry: Healthcare
- Description: The University of Toledo Medical Center is a leading healthcare facility in the region, providing a wide range of medical services including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. The medical center employs a large number of healthcare professionals, contributing significantly to the local economy and providing essential medical services to the community.
Mercy Health – Jefferson Avenue Family Medicine
- Location: Located within South Toledo
- Industry: Healthcare
- Description: Mercy Health – Jefferson Avenue Family Medicine offers comprehensive primary care services to the community, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and urgent care services. The facility employs a team of physicians, nurses, and support staff dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare to residents of South Toledo.
Nationwide Children’s Hospital – Toledo
- Location: Approximately 7 miles from South Toledo
- Industry: Healthcare
- Description: Nationwide Children’s Hospital – Toledo is a top-tier pediatric hospital offering specialized care for children, including emergency services, surgeries, and long-term treatments. The hospital employs a diverse team of doctors, nurses, and support staff committed to pediatric healthcare excellence.
Economic Outlook for Southside
Southside (South Toledo), along with other up-and-coming areas of Toledo, are undergoing positive changes that reflect a growing economic landscape. There are new employers coming to the market and demand for housing is increasing. The unemployment rate has been steadily declining, now sitting at approximately 4.5%. This decrease is largely due to new businesses entering the area, which has helped to create more jobs. Additionally, revitalization efforts in Toledo are leading to significant development projects, especially in construction and retail, which not only generate jobs but also enhance local infrastructure
School Systems and Educational Resources in South Toledo
Public Schools
South Toledo falls under the jurisdiction of the Toledo Public Schools (TPS), which offers a range of educational options for families. However, there are no public high schools in the neighborhood, so older students will have to travel.
- Burroughs Elementary School: A public school rated 5/10 on GreatSchools, providing a balanced educational experience for its students.
- Arlington Elementary School: This public school has a rating of 3/10 on GreatSchools, indicating areas for improvement in its educational offerings.
- Marshall Elementary School: Also rated 3/10 on GreatSchools, this public school serves the local community with basic educational resources.
- Walbridge Elementary School: A public school with a rating of 4/10 on GreatSchools, offering educational services to the community.
- Escuela SMART Academy: A public charter school rated 5/10 on GreatSchools, known for its innovative approach to education.
Private School
Queen of Apostles School: The only private school in the area, Queen of Apostles School offers a faith-based education that emphasizes both academic and moral development.
Daycare Options
South Toledo also offers several daycare options for families seeking early childhood education:
- Little Dreamers Daycare: A local daycare providing nurturing care and early learning experiences for young children.
- Suzette Mays Child Care: This daycare offers a safe and engaging environment for children, focusing on developmental milestones.
- Village Academy: A daycare that emphasizes a structured learning environment for preschool-aged children.
Crime Statistics in South Toledo
Like other parts of Toledo, the Southside area has its own set of challenges regarding crime, reflected in its crime grade of F. This rating indicates that Southside experiences higher-than-average rates of both violent and property crimes compared to national averages. While these statistics may raise some concerns, they also highlight the community’s resilience and the ongoing efforts to enhance safety.
Local organizations and law enforcement are actively engaged in initiatives aimed at improving safety and fostering community involvement. These efforts focus on building partnerships and promoting a sense of security among residents. Despite the challenges, there is a strong commitment within the community to work towards positive change, which can lead to an improved quality of life for all who live in Southside Toledo.
