Park Forest began life in 1948 as a plan to provide housing for GIs returning from World War II. It was the first post-war planned community and its innovative design has been recognized and used as a model for towns throughout the world. The Village of Park Forest has received numerous livability citations including two All-America City Awards, two Governors Home Town Awards and, most recently, its downtown redevelopment received the Burnham Award for excellence in planning.

Located approximately 30 miles south of downtown Chicago, Park Forest (population 23,462) is part of both Cook and Will Counties. It is bordered by Chicago Heights, Matteson, Olympia Fields, Richton Park and University Park. Interstate Highway 57 is less than three miles to the west and the Calumet Expressway eight miles to the east, provide access to all of the major highways in the Chicago area. Both Midway and O’Hare airports are less than an hour away. Park Forest residents have easy access to three Metra commuter rail line stations. Metra trains make 80 daily trips to downtown Chicago. During rush hour, this trip can take as little as 50 minutes.

The community’s original master plan ensured convenient commercial centers, a child-safe curvilinear street system, a business and light industrial park and multiple, scattered school and recreational facilities