West Taylor, PA Homes for Rent

West Taylor, Pennsylvania, located 5 miles from Johnstown, is a small community still recovering from the devastating 1977 flood caused by the Laurel Run Dam break. The township fosters a sense of community through events hosted by the West Taylor Township Volunteer Fire Company, such as the annual memorial softball tournament and the Homemade Peroghi Sale. Residents often venture into Johnstown for dining and shopping, with Holeshot Café & Diner being the sole local restaurant. The township is surrounded by the expansive Gallitzin State Forest, offering hiking opportunities amidst natural gas drilling sites and timber harvests. The Charles F. Lewis Natural Area within the forest presents challenging trails due to varied surfaces and hilly terrain. Housing in West Taylor includes split-level, minimal traditional, and ranch-style homes, typically on half-acre lots. While the Greater Johnstown School District serves the area, it holds average ratings, with a notable music program available for students. Commuting is facilitated by Pennsylvania 403 and local bus stops, with the Johnstown Amtrak station providing connections to Pittsburgh and New York. Despite its history of flooding, improvements by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have mitigated risks, contributing to a safer environment compared to past decades.