Happy TravellerWelcome to Westmont, a charming village located in DuPage County, Illinois, United States. With a population of 24,429 as of 2020, Westmont is a community of 5.03 square miles in area. Located approximately 18 miles (29 km) west of the Chicago Loop in the southeastern portion of DuPage County, Westmont is a perfect destination for those looking to explore the Chicago region without the hustle and bustle of the city.
== History ==
The area known as Westmont was inhabited by the Potawatami before the U.S. government coerced them to vacate their land for a nominal payment in 1833. The development of the Illinois-Michigan Canal contributed to Westmont’s early growth, with many workers turning to farming when the economic panic of 1837 halted canal construction. Agriculture became the major occupation, with produce sold in nearby Chicago. In order to transport agricultural products into the city of Chicago, construction of a plank road from Chicago began in 1840. Today, this path is known as Ogden Avenue (U.S. Route 34). The plank road soon became inadequate; in 1858, local incorporated towns and villages petitioned the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad to build a branch line from Aurora to Chicago that would pass through their towns. The railroad line was approved, with the first train in 1864.
== Notable people ==
Westmont has been home to many notable people, including professional hockey player Robbie Russo, writer and journalist Kira Salak, industrialist and inventor of Beanie Babies Ty Warner, and musician Muddy Waters, considered the father of Chicago blues.
== Geography ==
Westmont is located at 41°47′40″N 87°58′35″W (41.794480, -87.976433). It is bounded on the north by the Village of Oak Brook, on the east by the Village of Clarendon Hills, on the south by the City of Darien and on the west by the Village of Downers Grove. It is nearly wholly within Downers Grove Township. According to the 2021 census gazetteer files, Westmont has a total area of 5.11 square miles (13.23 km2), of which 5.00 square miles (12.95 km2) (or 97.94%) is land and 0.11 square miles (0.28 km2) (or 2.06%) is water.
== Demographics ==
As of the 2020 census, there were 24,429 people, 10,485 households, and 6,175 families residing in the village. The population density was 4,782 inhabitants per square mile (1,846/km2). The racial makeup of the village was 64.85% White, 6.97% African American, 0.43% Native American, 14.72% Asian, 0.07% Pacific Islander, 5.50% from other races, and 7.47% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 12.72% of the population.
== Economy ==
According to the 2021 Comprehensive Financial Report, the top employers in Westmont are:
– Ty Warner Companies
– Westmont Park District
– Jewel-Osco
– Mariano’s
– Ace Hardware
The town officially opened a 94 unit luxury residential apartment building dubbed Quincy Station in 2022, a transit-oriented and pet-friendly development. Part of a larger effort towards revitalizing the Central Business District in Westmont.
== Transportation ==
Westmont has a Metra station on Metra’s BNSF Railway Line, which provides daily rail service between Aurora, Illinois and Chicago’s Union Station. U.S. Route 34, Interstate 88 located north of the Village, Interstate 55 to the South, Interstate 294 to the East and Interstate 355 to the West provide access to the rest of the Chicago Region.
== See also ==
William L. Gregg House
== External links ==
Official website
Westmont Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau
Whether you’re looking to explore the rich history of the area, enjoy the beautiful landscapes, or indulge in the mouthwatering local cuisine, Westmont has something for everyone. Come visit us and discover why Westmont is a hidden gem in the Chicago region.
