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Community

Pic-VillageSignThe Village of Eternal Light 
Established on April 6, 1869, along the western banks of the Des Plaines River, less than 15 miles directly west of downtown Chicago, the Village of Maywood enjoys a Legacy of Diversity that is unique in Illinois.  Our history is deeply rooted in national service; and many of our residents have distinguished themselves, both nationally and abroad, over the past 125 years.  In fact, Congress designated Maywood a Village of Eternal Light. We are proud of the spirit, resolve and fortitude of the people who call Maywood home.

Demographics
The Village of Maywood is a small suburban community with a population of approximately 23,512 residents. Maywoodians are quick to count the diversity of the Village's population among its many assets. Maywood's officials often state that the Village was welcoming of diverse individuals and families at a time when most other suburbs in Illinois and America were actively turning them away. Current demographic figures reveal that Maywood's population is comprised of the following mix: 60% African American, 34% Latino, and 3% Caucasian.

Our Location
The Village of Maywood is well-situated, which is why so many of us choose to call it home.  The community is located approximately 15 miles directly west of downtown Chicago - nestled among some of the most vibrant communities in the western suburbs.

In addition to its great location, Maywood is easy to get to by car or public transportation. The Eisenhower Expressway (I-290) provides quick and direct access to downtown Chicago.  A typical drive from the 1st Avenue exit to the Post Office overpass in downtown Chicago usually takes 25 to 40 minutes, depending on the time of day.  In fact, our community has access points to the Eisenhower at five locations: 1st Avenue, 9th Avenue, 17th Avenue and 25th Avenue.  The Eisenhower Expressway also provide us with excellent access to exciting communities further west, such as Oakbrook; or northwest, such as Schaumberg; and to the southwest, such as Naperville and Orland Park. While the Eisenhower Expressway provides great east-west access, 1st Avenue and 25th Street, provide excellent north-south access.  Residents often use 1st Avenue to travel to Chicago's two airports, O'Hare and Midway, which are both 30 to 40 minutes away.

In addition to excellent surface access, Maywood has two commuter stops along the Metra line serving Gurnee.  The 5th Avenue Metra train stop provides access to the cultural heart of our community.  The stop is just steps away from the Main Library, a cultural museum, a performing arts center, our main park and a historic tribute to the Underground Railroad.

Natural Amenities and More
Maywood enjoys proximity to a forest preserve that engulfs the Des Plaines River. Miller Meadow, on the southeast side of 1st Avenue and Roosevelt Road, is part of the Forest Preserve owned and operated by Cook County.  It is open to the public from sunrise to sunset in the warmer months, and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the winter.  Miller Meadow offers family picnic areas, walking trails, snowmobiling areas, cross-country skiing trails and sledding hills.  According to Forest Preserve sources, Miller Meadow was a landing strip known as Checkerboard Field.  From 1921-1923, it was leased to the U.S. Post Office.  For more information on Miller Meadow and winter activities, call 708-366-9420.

When you add up all that Maywood has going for it: our proximity to natural amenities, culturally rich communities, and major corridors and modes of transportation - and then you factor in our unique and historic housing stock - it's no wonder so many people have chosen to make Maywood their home and place of business!

Click here to see a map of Maywood.

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