Merrionette Park

About Merrionette Park

Merrionette Park is a very small village in Cook County, Illinois, covering less than half a square mile. Because of its shared border with the city of Chicago, it offers many amenities that help residents feel at home. As a quiet bedroom community of the Windy City, it provides locals with easy access to big-city shopping, dining and entertainment as well as a peaceful village to come home to.

The History of Merrionette Park

Merrionette Park was founded as a planned suburban development, developed by Joseph E. Merrion in the 1940s. The booming war economy and a lack of residential areas in the Chicago metro area resulted in an influx of families searching for affordable housing, and Merrion recognized his opportunity. He began with just 120 small homes in the area, eventually expanding it to create the nearby communities of Hometown and Country Club Hills.

By the mid-1940s, residents had established a loosely-structured village government, seeking water service, a village school bus, streetlights and official village social gatherings. As the community grew, its leaders debated whether to allow Merrionette Park to be annexed as a part of Chicago, remain an unincorporated village or seek official incorporation. In 1947, the decision had been made, and Merrionette Park was officially incorporated. It was named for its early founder, Joseph Merrion.

Merrionette Park has always been a quiet community, but also one that often houses generations of families. Many children remain in the community as adults to raise their own families, continuing the legacy of this small village.

Living in Merrionette Park

Merrionette Park offers a very quiet lifestyle, serving as a retreat of sorts from big-city life. However, you'll also have access to plenty of supermarkets and other shopping destinations as well as restaurants and green spaces with just a short drive. Health care is also readily available, with a few local practices to consider as well as facilities in nearby Chicago.

The local schools and Merrionette Park host several family-friendly activities throughout the year, like holiday visits from Santa Claus, Easter egg hunts and more. The community also comes together for charity events like hospital toy drives and school supply collections.

Merrionette Schools

The Atwood Heights School District and the Eisenhower High School District serve the Merrionette Park area. The nearest post-secondary campuses are operated by the Moraine Valley Community College District.

Resources for Moving to Merrionette

Here's some helpful information for planning your move to Merrionette:

• Utilities: The village's primary electricity provider is Commonwealth Edison, while Nicor supplies natural gas in the area. Water services fall under the jurisdiction of the village utilities department.
• Garbage and Recycling: Trash is collected once a week, while recyclables are picked up every other week. You can put yard waste out for collection between April 1 and November 30.
• Transportation: Merrionette receives service from Chicago's Pace Bus transit system.
• Personal Vehicles: You have 30 days from your move-in date to obtain a village vehicle sticker. The stickers must be repurchased on an annual basis, typically during the month of June.
• Pets: All dogs and cats must be licensed with the village, and leash laws are strictly enforced.
  

Merrionette Housing

Homes in Merrionette Park consist primarily of single-family dwellings, though you can also find duplexes and other multi-family housing options. Because the community is so small, the housing market is fairly limited. However, with time and patience, you can find the right housing option for your needs.