Amidst the gentle sway of willow branches, lies a hidden gem of the Chicagoland area, Willowbrook Park. What began as a humble vision by the Ridgemoor Homeowners Association in 1959 blossomed into the vibrant village we see today. Willowbrook Park stands as a testament to their foresight. They incorporated as a village to control the surrounding farmland’s development. A quick glance at a calendar revealed a looming deadline. New laws requiring a larger population for incorporation were set to take effect on January 1, 1960. This spurred the small group of 167 residents to act swiftly. Amidst the flurry of legal proceedings, a crucial detail was overlooked: the village’s name. The attorney, in a frantic call, pressed association president Anton Borse for a name. Glancing out his window, Borse’s gaze settled upon the graceful willow trees lining the creek behind his property. And so, Willowbrook was christened.
Willowbrook Park offers a diverse range of recreational activities. The park’s namesake, the willow trees, whisper tales of the past, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. But Willowbrook Park is more than just a green space. It’s a symbol of community spirit and a hub for recreational activities. Nestled within DuPage County, just 23 miles from the heart of Chicago, Willowbrook boasts a rich history. Originally an unincorporated area of Darien, the village found its identity amidst a grove of willows along a local creek. This creek, a vital part of the local ecosystem, meanders its way through the landscape, eventually flowing into the picturesque Waterfall Glen.
Willowbrook’s strategic location at the intersection of Route 83 and I-55 provides easy access to the surrounding area. A short drive north on Route 83 leads to the bustling business hub of Oak Brook. A quick 15-mile trip east on I-55 brings you to Midway International Airport. Even the renowned Argonne National Laboratory is just minutes away. This convenient location has attracted businesses like Turtle Wax, which established its corporate headquarters in Willowbrook. Furthermore, Willowbrook has also blossomed into a retail haven, featuring numerous shopping centers, including the recently constructed Willowbrook Town Center.
In the 1980s, a transformation took place. A once-swampy area was revitalized into the now-popular Willow Pond. This area underwent a significant cleanup. Trees were planted. A rock-laden shoreline was created, and lights were installed. Today, Willow Pond serves as a popular spot for ice skating during the winter months. Willowbrook residents and businesses benefit from the village’s prudent financial management, enjoying low taxes and exceptional services. The village collects limited property taxes, primarily to fund special recreation programs and improve handicap accessibility within Willowbrook’s park facilities. Other services are financed by utility and telecommunication taxes, as well as sales and income tax revenue.
As you stroll through Willowbrook Park, take a moment to appreciate the vision of those early residents. Their commitment to preserving the natural beauty and fostering a strong community has shaped Willowbrook into the welcoming village it is today. From its humble beginnings as a small homeowners’ association, Willowbrook has grown into a thriving community, a testament to the power of collective action and a love for the land.