“Imagine a time when small-town charm defined communities. That’s Hillside Berkeley in Chicago. Let’s dive into its story.
Hillside Berkeley lies just 14 miles west of downtown Chicago. It sits along Cook County’s far western border. Interstates 290 and 294 form its western and part of its southern boundary. Commuter railways run to the north. These transportation options provide easy access to the entire metropolitan region. This includes O’Hare Airport. These corridors help separate the village from its neighbors. This separation creates its charming small-town atmosphere.
Farming began here as early as 1835. In 1848, the local community united. They established a one-room school called Sunnyside. Sunnyside Elementary School still operates today in a newer, larger building. An influx of English residents played a key role. It ensured the village’s incorporation as Berkeley in 1924.
St. Charles Road serves as Hillside Berkeley’s main thoroughfare. It runs right through the center of town. Commuters easily travel to and from the village. They use Metra’s Union Pacific West Line. Today, Hillside Berkeley is a richly diverse residential community. It has strong neighborly bonds.
The picturesque Illinois Prairie Path passes through Hillside Berkeley. It is perfect for hiking or biking. Since 1950, a global leader has been based here. World Dryer Corporation is one of the largest hand dryer manufacturers. You’ll find their products in public restrooms worldwide.
Hillside and Berkeley are working together. They want to develop the area around the Illinois Prairie Path. It runs through both villages. The section of Taft Avenue is also included. It lies between the path and Elm Avenue.
The Prairie Path was once the Chicago Aurora & Elgin electric train line. It ran between Aurora and downtown Chicago. The line shut down in 1961. Illinois converted most of it into a walking and biking trail. It extends as far east as Forest Park.
Berkeley and Hillside see this connection as a major asset. It could attract visitors and businesses. Officials are exploring ways to capitalize on it.
The nearest Metra station is the Union Pacific West Line’s Berkeley station. It’s on the village’s northern border. Pace Route 311 serves St. Charles Road. It links commuters to Metra stations further west. It also connects to the Austin/Lake Green Line ‘L’ station. Route 310 serves Butterfield Road. It links the villages to the Forest Park Blue Line ‘L’ station.
The CMAP study revealed Hillside and Berkeley have significant potential. It pointed out strong potential for retail. It also noted very strong walkability. Both Hillside and Berkeley can leverage these attributes.
So, as you wander through Hillside Berkeley, remember its journey. From farmland to a thriving community. It is a place where small-town charm meets global industry.”