West View, PA

County: Allegheny

History

West View, Pennsylvania

West View, Pennsylvania is a borough located in Allegheny County, in the western part of the state. Its history dates back to the 19th century.

The land on which West View now resides was originally settled by the Delaware Native Americans. In the mid-18th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area, primarily of German and Irish descent. The region was mainly used for farming, and the land was divided into several large estates.

The settlement itself grew in the early 19th century with the opening of the Pittsburgh and Butler Plank Road, which passed through the area. This road was a major transportation route connecting the city of Pittsburgh with Butler, Pennsylvania. The construction of the Plank Road brought more settlers to the area, leading to further development.

In 1843, a post office was established in the community under the name "Drum," named after the large drumbeat that was used to call people to the nearby Presbyterian Church. However, in 1889, the borough was officially incorporated as West View, a name derived from its location on the western edge of the Pittsburgh city limits.

West View experienced significant growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks in part to its proximity to Pittsburgh and the easy access provided by streetcars. The opening of the West View Park in 1906, a popular amusement park, contributed to the borough's growth and popularity. The park attracted visitors from all over the region and became a vital part of the community's identity.

During the mid-20th century, West View saw changes in its landscape. The opening of the Parkway North (Interstate 279) and the decline of streetcar transportation had both positive and negative effects on the borough. The highway made it easier for residents to commute to and from Pittsburgh, but it also led to a decrease in local businesses and the closure of West View Park in 1977.

Today, West View maintains its residential character, with a diversified population and a variety of housing options. The borough also offers several recreational areas, community events, and amenities for its residents. Despite the closure of the amusement park, West View's history and its community spirit continue to shape the borough's identity.

Attractions

West View Park

West View Park

A historic amusement park that operated from 1906-1977 and is now a community park. It offers picnic tables, playgrounds, and fields for recreational activities.

Kane Road Arboretum

A serene park with walking trails, gardens, and an arboretum showcasing a wide variety of trees and plants.

North Hills Art Center

An art center that offers classes, workshops, and exhibitions for artists of all ages and skill levels.

Northland Public Library

A community library featuring a vast collection of books, digital resources, and various events and programs for all ages.

Green Tree Nature Center

A nature preserve with walking trails, wildlife observation areas, and educational programs about the natural environment.

West View Farmers Market

A local farmers market that offers fresh produce, artisanal products, and community events.

West View VFW Memorial Park

A peaceful park with picnic areas, walking paths, and a memorial honoring veterans.

Bellevue Memorial Park

A nearby park with athletic fields, playgrounds, and a swimming pool, just a short distance from West View.

Schenley Park

A large park located in neighboring Pittsburgh, offering hiking trails, sports fields, a golf course, and a beautiful view of the city skyline.

PNC Park

A popular baseball stadium in downtown Pittsburgh, where visitors can watch a Pittsburgh Pirates game and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Please note that the availability and accessibility of these attractions may vary, so it's always a good idea to check local guidelines and operating hours before visiting.

Climate

West View, PA experiences a humid continental climate. Summers in West View are warm and can be humid, with average temperatures in the mid-80s°F (around 30°C). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the 90s°F (32-35°C). Winters in West View are cold and can be snowy, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-20s°F (-4 to -7°C) to the low 40s°F (4-6°C). Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of about 30-40 inches (76-102 cm).

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons in West View. Spring temperatures start to warm up, with average highs in the 50s°F (10-15°C), while autumn sees temperatures gradually cool down with highs in the 50s°F (10-15°C) in September and dropping to the 30s-40s°F (1-4°C) by November. These seasons are characterized by more rainfall, with spring being slightly wetter.

Overall, West View experiences distinct four seasons, with warm and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and mild but relatively wet spring and autumn seasons.

Neighborhoods

West View is a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. The borough is known for its close-knit community and offers a variety of neighborhoods for residents to choose from. Here are some notable neighborhoods in West View:

Cascade Park

This neighborhood is situated on the eastern side of West View and offers a mix of residential properties. It is characterized by its tree-lined streets and well-preserved houses.

Highland Park

Located in the southern part of West View, this neighborhood is defined by its beautiful parks, including a small lake and playgrounds. The area is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes and apartments.

Sunset Hills

Situated on the western side of West View, this neighborhood offers a suburban feel with a range of housing options. It is known for its spacious yards, quiet streets, and well-maintained properties.

Stonybrook

This neighborhood is located in the northern part of West View and is characterized by its cul-de-sacs and quiet residential streets. It offers a mix of housing styles, including ranch-style homes, split-level houses, and townhouses.

Ridgewood

Situated in the northwest corner of West View, this neighborhood is known for its well-established houses and beautiful green spaces. It offers a mix of residential properties, including single-family homes and apartments.

Overall, the neighborhoods in West View, PA, provide a diverse range of housing options and a sense of community. Whether you prefer a more suburban setting, a park-like atmosphere, or a quiet residential street, there is a neighborhood in West View to suit every preference.

Nearby Cities