SOUTH CHICAGO SUBURBS
WILL COUNTY, IL
County Offices
302 North Chicago Street
Joliet, IL 815-774-7480
www.willcountyillinois.com
Chamber of Commerce
2304 173rd Street
Lansing, IL 815-727-5371
http://local.townsquarepublications.com/illinois/willcounty/index.html
Home to world-class casinos, a thriving industrial community, and one of the Midwest’s most important transportation centers, Will County plays a pivotal role in the vitality of The Southland. Strategically located approximately 35 miles from Metropolitan Chicago, this suburban community is well-served by five interstate highways, freight rail connections and truck lines, and intercity as well as commuter rail services. The county is situated on the Illinois waterway system, elevating its status to that of a Global Trans Center—an entity that works to integrate several modes of transportation and provides the infrastructure, labor, and real estate to facilitate that integration. The Illinois Deep Waterway or Chicago Ship Canal carries shipments of coal, fuel oil, chemicals, grain, and a variety of manufactured goods to national and international destinations. With all of this bustling economic activity, Will County nevertheless welcomes newcomers to wonderful cities and villages that excel in quality of life.
Services
Residents of Will County have quick and easy access to respected medical centers and hospitals that are prepared to meet every need from routine to highly advanced. Silver Cross Hospital in Joliet has evolved from a 33-bed not-for-profit hospital into a world-class healthcare network supported by hundreds of physicians and more than 1,500 dedicated employees. Areas of specialty include cardiovascular care, home health, physical rehabilitation, diagnostic imaging, dialysis, maternity, pediatrics, surgery, emergency care, and intensive care. A number of healthcare facilities are located in Tinley Park, including Children’s Memorial Pediatric Specialty Services at Ingalls Family Care Center. Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center in Joliet provides state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment as well as a number of Centers of Excellence. Among them are St. Joseph Heart Center, Sister Theresa Cancer Care Center, emergency services, family birthing suites, pediatric services, comprehensive rehabilitation services, and surgical specialties.
Public school districts feature schools that have garnered statewide and national recognition for excellence in education. Programs for the gifted and talented, advanced placement, vocational education programs, special education, a daily tutorial period, summer school classes, and a wide variety of extracurricular activities are hallmarks of Will County educational opportunities. Private schools—both independent and parochial—expand the educational choices in a rich variety of academic environments. Community colleges, four-year colleges, and public universities are available within a reasonable commute from Will County to ensure convenient and affordable access to higher education. The Three Rivers Education Partnership is an active partner with the Will County Center for Economic Development, producing quality cooperative relationships between local schools and the business community to develop the leaders of tomorrow.
Kankakee Community College in Kankakee and Joliet Junior College in Joliet draw students from nearby communities such as Lockport, New Lenox, Momence, and Peotone. The private liberal arts University of St. Francis in Joliet also provides off-campus educational opportunities in several Chicago Southland communities. The private Lewis University in Romeoville serves nearly 4,500 students as a Catholic, Lasallian institution. The serene village of University Park, sprawling from Will County into Cook County, Illinois, is home to the Governor’s State University. This unique institution is an ideal complement to area community colleges by offering only the final two years of coursework required for a bachelor’s degree.
Lifestyle
Residents of Will County and Chicago Southland are literally surrounded by recreational and cultural centers that encourage activities for every age group and interest. Illinois State Parks and beaches combine with vast Lake Michigan, nature and forest preserves, golf courses, recreation centers, and supervised programs from sports to arts and crafts. Lush local parks offer swimming pools, tennis courts, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. For professional sports, Chicago is easily accessible via major interstates or public transportation.
Throughout rural Will County and the surrounding metropolis are elegant performing arts centers that showcase symphonies, Broadway shows, theatre, musical productions, and dance companies. The Center for the Visual and Performing Arts at Governors State University as well as the cultural assets of other area colleges enrich the region with first-rate productions. The Governors State campus also features Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park, an outdoor sculpture collection acclaimed as one of the finest in the world. Tinley Park’s First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre is one of the world’s largest outdoor music theaters, booking only top-billed popular music stars. Historic sites, fine museums, galleries, and quaint shopping districts filled with collectibles and antiques contrast with vibrant shopping malls and retail centers that display everything from high fashion to home furnishings.
Families will enjoy the region’s collection of “fun centers” with batting cages, arcades, miniature golf, and go-karts. Joliet features dazzling 1,000-passenger riverboat casinos, while Balmoral Park in Crete and Hawthorne Park in the Stickney-Cicero area draw regional crowds to horse racing events. As a microcosm of the Southland region, Will County communities provide diverse residential settings and housing choices that range from well-kept older homes and quaint farmhouses to handsome new construction and modern subdivisions. Country manors, magnificent estates, stately college or university districts, and quiet tree-shaded neighborhoods in the heart of the village are just a few of the possibilities. Those who are looking for a comfortable, rural atmosphere and small-town atmosphere will want to explore welcoming villages like Beecher and Peotone. Rapidly growing communities such as Tinley Park are known for their wide selection of new and comparatively affordable homes. Melding the relaxed pace of the country with cosmopolitan amenities, Will County will undoubtedly be welcoming a stead influx of newcomers for decades to come.
Beecher
Municipal Offices
708-946-2261
www.villageofbeecher.org
Chamber of Commerce
708-946-6803
http://beecherchamber.com
Established in 1870, the historic village of Beecher is 37 miles south of Chicago. Because the village supports a modest population, residents enjoy all the tranquility and slower pace of a rural lifestyle with access to Chicago’s world-class attractions. Historic downtown Beecher has transitioned successfully from a retail district to a business and professional center. Route 1, the Dixie Highway corridor, has welcomed an influx of new retail activity and a growing collection of light industry. Offering all the charm and friendliness of “small town America,” Beecher features delightful neighborhoods and a varied housing selection that includes vintage brick or frame homes, stately mansions, newer ranches, two-story family homes, and modern tri-levels. Many newcomers are drawn to the beauty of larger, heavily wooded lots with horse privileges. Choices include very old brick or frame homes and stately mansions to recently constructed ranches, two-stories, and tri-levels. Luxurious family homes and townhomes as well as the public 27-hole Shady Lawn golf course have been magnets for retirees, empty nesters, and growing families. Commuters to the Loop can access the Illinois Central Gulf Metra Line in Richton Park or in University Park.
Crete
Municipal Offices
708-672-5431
www.villageofcrete.org
Chamber of Commerce
708-672-9216
www.cretechamber.com
The growing village of Crete claims a rich history that dates back to 1800s, only two decades after Illinois became a state. Over the many decades that followed, the community developed its distinctive identity and charm, evolving from patchwork farms, lush woodland, serene lakes, and rural beauty. Because of Crete’s appealing atmosphere and bucolic nature, increasing numbers of new residents and businesses have been drawn to the area. In recent decades, the village experienced an impressive growth rate. Residents and civic leaders are determined to implement a plan for quality growth and carefully controlled development that preserves the rural flavor and distinctive features of the village. Beautiful older homes harmonize with magnificent new construction throughout the village. Attractions include harness racing at Balmoral Park, the quaint downtown antique shops, and several popular golf courses that are close to home. Families can enjoy camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, lake fishing, and horseback riding. Major hospitals and institutions of higher education are only minutes from home. Four interstate highways and commuter train service are convenient to Crete.
Frankfort
Municipal Offices
815-469-2177
www.villageoffrankfort.com
Chamber of Commerce
815-469-3356
www.frankfortchamber.com
Recognized as one of the fastest-growing communities in the Chicago Southland region, Frankfort doubled its residential capacity and increased its population by 65 percent in a single decade. Often called the “Jewel of Will County,” Frankfort has expanded and upgraded its infrastructure to meet increasing demands and maintain a high quality of life. The bustling shopping center of Frankfort Crossing complements the downtown Frankfort Towncenter district of quaint shops and cultural attractions, including the historical society’s “window museum” exhibits. Excellent golf courses, an indoor soccer facility, thriving industrial parks, and a municipal airport are some of the advantage of village life. The housing mix blends elegant Victorians with Cape Cods, Tudors, colonials, split-levels, ranches, and two-stories. Many of the homes are relatively new, and the rate of business expansion in recent decades has been as high as 40 percent. Community life is enhanced by an active chamber of commerce that sponsors concerts, special events, and awards scholarships to graduating seniors. Commuters rely on US Highway 45, the Lincoln Highway, and Harlem Avenue; although the Rock Island Metra Line can be accessed from Mokena.
Homer-Glen, Homer Township
Municipal Offices
Homer-Glen
708-301-0632
http://www.homerglenil.org/
Homer Township
708 301-0522
www.homertownship.com
Chamber of Commerce
708-301-8111
Newcomers who discover Homer-Glen and the surrounding Homer Township are impressed by the harmony of community with nature. One of the newest suburbs in Chicago Southland and already one of the largest in Will County, the village is welcoming rapid growth and expansion. Ideally located just 11 miles southwest of Chicago, the community neighbors Orland Park on the east, Lemont on the north, New Lenox on the south, and Lockport on the west. Preserving the rural atmosphere and protecting the environment are essential characteristics of Homer Glen. Open space, picturesque agricultural settings, spacious lots for homes, and properties zoned for horses and domestic farm animals add to the rural charm. Equestrians are drawn to the Homer Glen area for its country ambiance and abundant trails for horseback riding. Residents of all ages enjoy the wide variety of recreational amenities and activities, from challenging golf courses to sports leagues. Quality schools on the elementary and secondary levels combine with easy access to a community college campus and private as well as public universities.
Joliet
Municipal Offices
815-724-4000
https://www.joliet.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
815-727-5371
www.jolietchamber.com
Sports, auto racing thrills, and thriving industries have given Joliet many titles over the decades, including city of stone, city of steel, city of champions, and city of motor sports. Today, Joliet is experiencing an exciting renaissance and unprecedented growth. This well-developed and highly balanced urban community is reinventing itself as a destination for tourists and vacationers. Less than an hour’s drive from downtown Chicago by car or commuter rail, Joliet serves as the county seat and a center of education. Home to Joliet Junior College and the University of St. Francis, the city harmonizes growing residential neighborhoods with a revitalized downtown that offers upscale shopping and dining, entertainment attractions, cultural amenities, and wonderful recreational facilities. The strong local economy continues to welcome new businesses that appreciate a prime location at the crossroads of Interstates 55 and 80. Newcomers will find a vital, cooperative community spirit that enhances the positive new outlook for the city’s future.
Lockport
Municipal Offices
815-838-9498
http://www.cityoflockport.net/
Chamber of Commerce
815-838-3357
www.lockportchamber.com
The strong and warm community spirit that prevails in Lockport plays a vital role in attracting new residents and ensuring a high quality of life. The active chamber of commerce sponsors many of the city’s colorful special events and celebrations, including the annual golf outing, a business and community expo, the holiday tree lighting and Christmas Walk, and the Old Canal Days Parade. Along with neighboring Homer Township, Lockport is growing in popularity as a choice for suburban living. With predictions that the population will double over the coming decade, city planners are focused on protecting and refurbishing the old-world charm of the historic Main Street. The diverse housing mix includes classic and historic homes, suburban tract homes from the 1960s and ’70s, and contemporary new construction in a variety of architectural styles. One of the important growth factors for Lockport is the location of the city in an area near the growing research corridor along Interstate 55. More than 150 years ago, Lockport was situated along the Illinois and Michigan Canal. Today, the city is a point of interest in the National Heritage Corridor and welcomes tourists who are following the course of this historic waterway.
Manhattan
Municipal Offices
815-418-2100
www.villageofmanhattan.org
Chamber of Commerce
815 478-3811
www.manhattan-il.com
Surrounded by the township of the same name, the village of Manhattan is located in northeastern Illinois approximately 40 miles south of Chicago and nine miles southwest of Joliet. Incorporated in 1886, this long-established community claims its roots in agriculture. Although the last ten years have seen an influx of newcomers into this rural haven, the village still celebrates its German and Irish roots in the early spring Irish Fest celebration. Many new homes and residential developments are springing up in this serene stretch of fertile land and friendly neighbors. Residents of Manhattan enjoy a close-knit atmosphere in which the village and township governments work in cooperation with local boards and active citizens on projects and programs that add to the quality of life. Manhattan is rapidly evolving from a farming village into a bedroom community for commuters to Chicago and other industrialized suburbs. Direct access to Interstate 80 via US Highway 52 ensures an hour’s drive to the Loop.
Minooka
Municipal Offices
815-467-2151
www.minooka.com
Chamber of Commerce
708-895-8200
www.visitchicagosouthland.com
The former agricultural center of Minooka had its genesis as a community of farmers and their families. Eventually, the quiet village was populated with many retirees whose days of tilling fields were just a memory. Modern Minooka is still home to many of the grandchildren of yesterday’s farmers, although it has also attracted former Chicago residents who were drawn to the relaxed pace of living. In spite of several years of rapid growth and expansion, the serene village atmosphere remains remarkably preserved in appearance and ambiance. The opportunities for a quality education are enhanced by the presence of Joliet Junior College, providing personal enrichment, college-track programs, career and vocational training, and two-year degrees and certifications. Minooka is 55 miles from the Loop, although the availability of Interstates 55 and 80 ensure quick trip to Naperville and Downers Grove. The proliferation of new industry along the Des Plaines River corridor has greatly increased the employment opportunities close to home.
Mokena
Municipal Offices
708-479-3900
www.mokena.org
Chamber of Commerce
815-467-2151
https://www.minooka.com/business/chamber-of-commerce/
“Pleasant living and planned progress” are the hallmarks of beautiful Mokena, a growing village that is rapidly transforming its character from that of a quiet farming community into a suburb with country charm. Located 35 miles southwest of the Loop, Mokena has more than doubled its population since 1990. Newcomers are drawn to the serenity of the surrounding farmland and forest preserves, the first-rate attractions, and each access to highways and public transportation. Reminders of the agricultural past include the canopied European-style French Market, where local vendors sell the best of the Midwest in vegetables, fruits, dried and cut flowers, gourmet food, and quality goods for the home and family. Throughout the village, outstanding services and planned economic growth ensure a high quality of life. Both large and small businesses continue to move into the Mokena area, enjoying some of the region’s lowest taxes. The housing selection blends well-kept homes in established neighborhoods with beautiful new subdivisions, handsome townhomes, and custom-built country manors.
Monee
Municipal Offices
708-534-8301
www.villageofmonee.org
Chamber of Commerce
708-421-1786
www.moneechamber.org
Boasting a rich and fascinating history, Monee also claims a bright future based on careful planning and a commitment to quality. Harmonizing a lifestyle of old-world charm and friendliness with exciting modern progress, Monee is a small but rapidly growing community approximately 30 miles from Chicago. Since the early ’90s, the village has annexed a number of subdivisions and dedicated land for commercial expansion. Merchants know their customers by name, and neighbors still wave and greet each other on leisurely strolls along tree-shaded streets. The majority of residents in Monee are actively involved in the community on some level, from schools and churches to civic and social clubs. The warmth of this close-knit atmosphere extends beyond established residents to extend a welcome to newcomers. Businesses and organizations work together to sponsor many of the family-oriented annual events and activities for which Monee is so well known. Pine Lake and the Monee Reservoir provide unique recreational opportunities throughout the seasons. Monee is linked to the metropolitan area by Interstate 57.
New Lenox
Municipal Offices
815-462-6400
www.newlenox.net
Chamber of Commerce
815-485-4241
www.newlenoxchamber.com
Enjoying an ideal location near Interstates 55, 80, and 57, New Lenox is approximately 35 miles from downtown Chicago. Situated in the center of New Lenox Township, the village borders Joliet on the west. Other nearby communities include Mokena and Frankfort to the east and Manhattan to the south. Distinguished as one of the far southwestern suburbs, New Lenox is known for its selection of affordable and attractive homes. Many properties feature spacious yards for family enjoyment, and new subdivisions are springing up in response to the influx of new residents. While New Lenox is one of the region’s oldest areas, the community remained a small and sleepy farming village until the 1980s. Good schools, available land, a pastoral setting, and the peaceful countryside have all been magnets for record growth. Calling itself “the Home of Proud Americans,” the village preserves a rural lifestyle while it offers all the conveniences and services of an urban setting. The new North-South Tollway Interstate 355 extension will fuel even more interest in this area as a site for residential and commercial development.
Peotone
Municipal Offices
708-258-3279
www.villageofpeotone.com
Chamber of Commerce
708-258-9450
http://peotonechamber.com/en/
The peaceful village of Peotone has received national attention as one of the proposed sites for a third major Chicagoland airport. With prime undeveloped land and natural country charm, this small rural community is poised for economic expansion. Access to both Route 50 and Interstate 57 is another advantage, since the latter is so ideal for development. The village is nestled between Chicago’s suburban fringe and the expanding Kankakee area, offering an easy commute to the Loop by car or train. Peotone is a community filled with history and culture where well-educated residents enjoy first-rate municipal services that include an outstanding park district and a fine library. Many of the homes in Peotone are set along wide, curbed streets shaded by ancient trees in many varieties. Magnificent turn-of-the-century manors blend with contemporary houses for charming yet attractive neighborhoods. Local planners are anxious to welcome quality businesses and advanced technologies that preserved the serene atmosphere. The village hosts the Will County Fair and draws visitors to the historic H.A. Rathje Mill the annual Peotone Car Club’s parade of antique automobiles.
Romeoville
Municipal Offices
815-886-7200
www.romeoville.org
Chamber of Commerce
815-886-2076
www.romeovillechamber.org
Named as the twin and rival community to Juliet—now known as Joliet—the village of Romeoville was called Romeo before its incorporation. In the words of the movie, “A river runs through it.” With the rolling Des Plaines River meandering along the eastern border and the bustling Stevenson Expressway clipping the northern edge, modern Romeoville is ideally positioned for residential and economic growth. The village is rapidly transforming from a quaint small town into an urbanized community and vital suburb. Several farms and home-based businesses have been joined by major corporate offices and distribution centers within the boundaries of the village. In fact, Romeoville now claims a remarkably diverse industrial tax base and new business parks tend to fill rapidly. The private Lewis University and the north campus of Joliet Junior College are located in Romeoville, adding the energy and excitement of a college town. Attractive and affordable homes create another magnet to the village, further enhanced by access to major thoroughfares. Recreational amenities are highlighted by an 87-acre island in the Des Plaines River that offers a museum, picnic area, outdoor amphitheater, hiking trails, and canoeing.
Shorewood
Municipal Offices
815-725-2150
www.vil.shorewood.il.us
Chamber of Commerce
815-725-2900
www.shorewoodchamber.com
Selecting the slogan, “Small by choice…friendly by nature,” the attractive and progressive community of Shorewood provides a pleasant village atmosphere. Newcomers will discover an ideal blend of tranquility in quaint and welcoming neighborhoods without sacrificing access to modern conveniences and services. Well positioned to shift from a primarily residential village, Shorewood is prepared to accommodate entrepreneurial vision as well as established companies and businesses. Hugging the banks of the rolling DuPage River, Shorewood provides a strategic location near Interstates 55 and 80. It is also ideally situated to take advantage of the growth corridor along Highway 59 leading to Joliet and Plainfield. The area enjoys a reputation for good schools and quality housing choices. Residential neighborhoods enjoy a scenic riverside backdrop punctuated by an abundance of mature, beautiful trees and lush greenery. Maintaining a focus on quality, Shorewood has avoided a major construction boom by enforcing stricter guidelines and heavier fees for developers than many of its neighbors. Civic leaders are committed to striking a fine balance of serene residential areas with first-rate services and commercial convenience.
Tinley Park
Municipal Offices
708-444-5000
www.tinleypark.org
Chamber of Commerce
708-532-5700
www.tinleychamber.org
Stretching into Will County but primarily located in Cook County, the highly developed and attractive community of Tinley Park serves as a hub for culture, entertainment, healthcare, and commerce. More than a dozen shopping centers contrast with the quaint Old Towne district to attract local and regional shoppers. Smaller plazas are convenient to residential neighborhoods, although Tinley Park is also close to Orland Square. The latter is one of Indiana’s busiest malls, sprawling over 1.2 million square feet. Fine and casual restaurants, a five-acre family water park, beautiful recreation centers, swimming pools, tennis courts, golf courses, sports fields, and private clubs are just a few of the local amenities. Residents also enjoy easy access to cultural events and activities at nearby college campuses as well as world-class museums and galleries throughout the metropolitan area. Aficionados of the arts will appreciate the active cultural community and performance series, while nature enthusiasts explore lush parks and forest preserves in or near Tinley Park. Attractive housing options include many homes that were built after 1960 for a contemporary neighborhood atmosphere. Commuters enjoy interstate access, although rail depots and express trains provide mass transit options to the Loop.
University Park
Municipal Offices
708-534-6451
www.university-park-il.com
Chamber of Commerce
708-957-6950
http://www.chicagosouthlandchamber.com/
Distinguished as the largest municipality in the southern suburbs, University Park lies primarily in Will County but also sprawls into Cook County. Commuters rely on Interstate 57 for connections to Interstates 80, 94, and 294. The Illinois Central Gulf Line provides rail service to the Loop. An active housing market features traditional home styles on well-kept properties with meticulous landscaping, although multi-family developments are also popular. University Park was originally known as Park Forest South until the opening of Governors State University. The community changed its name in recognition of the prestige that this major institution of higher education brought to this area of lovely subdivisions. Governors State complements the area’s two-year institutions by providing the final two years of a baccalaureate degree program. The sprawling 1,000-acre Governor’s Gateway industrial park is now home to thriving companies that include several highly visible giants. The large selection of fine homes, a growing local economy, the vitality of a college-town atmosphere, and excellent recreation opportunities keep University Park at the forefront of desirability.
Wilmington
Municipal Offices
815-476-2175
www.wilmington-il.com
Chamber of Commerce
815-476-5991
www.wilmingtonilchamber.org
As newcomers soon discover, the recreational amenities in the Wilmington area are so exceptional that they often attract more visitors than residents. The rolling Kankakee River branches to form an island, creating a backdrop of natural beauty for permanent homes and seasonal cottages. Well known for the hospitality of its warm and welcoming residents, Wilmington attracts new residents to the lush, green setting of its fine properties. The housing choices date back to vintage structures from the Civil War era but also include modern construction in ranch and two-story styles. Activities and facilities on the island include fishing ponds, sports play, summer concerts, festivities, and ice skating. Several large local and state parks are nearby to offer expanded opportunities for outdoor adventure. Antique shows and craft fairs are popular in this charming village where popular antique malls line the quaint streets. Recognized as a peaceful place to live, Wilmington maintains a high quality of life through a commitment to quality and the effort of volunteers and active clubs and organizations. Commuter rail service is available in nearby Joliet or New Lenox.
