Lisle Economic Development

Looking for a “Refreshingly Different” Place to Grow your Business? Consider Lisle. Home to the world-renowned Morton Arboretum, Lisle is known as “The Arboretum Village,” a place where businesses have thrived since 1932.

From the prestigious I-88 Corporate Corridor to the beautifully redeveloped nature themed downtown, Lisle offers businesses outstanding opportunities for growth and expansion.

In 2007, Money Magazine named Lisle as one of the Top Twenty “Best Places to Live in America,” citing economic opportunity and a high quality of life. These attributes help make Lisle businesses successful while satisfying the needs of employees and their families. As you learn about this wonderful community, you will understand why more than 1,000 businesses have chosen Lisle as their home, including the international headquarters of Navistar, Molex and SunCoke Energy; Millward Brown and Unilever. These businesses have discovered that Lisle “intelligently blends innovation with a respect for nature to offer outstanding work, life and visitor experiences.”

Click here to view the Village Profile.

Click here to view the Welcome to the Arboretum Village Video. Hear Lisle executives discuss why the Village was – and still is – the preferred location for their businesses.

Highly Accessible Location

Lisle is located 25 miles west of Chicago in the heart of a major transportation network consisting of airports, interstates, rail and bus lines. Both O’Hare and Midway Airports are approximately 35 minutes away while DuPage County Airport can be accessed in 45 minutes. Ramps to I-88 (East/West Toll Way) and I-355 (North/South Toll Way) provide convenient access to the nation’s interstate system.

Metra commuter trains provide fast, reliable service to Chicago within 30 minutes. Pace buses provide service along the major corridors throughout the Village. Traveling to and from Lisle is convenient and three branded hotels, an Extended Stay and an active Visitor’s Bureau help ensure enjoyable visits, whether for business or pleasure. While Chicago provides access to the resources of a major metropolitan area, Lisle’s charm offers a refreshing alternative to the big city.

Diverse Pro Business Community

Lisle is a thriving community of more than 1,000 businesses. Many corporations of national prominence are located in our prestigious I-88 Corporate Corridor, such as McCain Foods, the John Morrell Food Group and Computer Associates. Others are located in business and shopping districts or office parks interspersed throughout the community. An active Chamber of Commerce supports this diverse business base. Village incentives include sales tax rebates, grants and industrial revenue bonds. All incentive programs are managed by an engaged, pro-business Economic Development Commission.

Excellent Site Options

Lisle offers outstanding location options that can meet diverse business needs. For those seeking a location reflective of a corporate headquarters, the I-88 Corporate Corridor’s Class A buildings and expansive grounds satisfy. Attractive retail sites along Ogden Avenue or in shopping centers are available. Unique small businesses will appreciate the beautifully redeveloped downtown. Manufacturers or other office uses can choose from a variety of options in one of Lisle’s well maintained office parks.

Well maintained infrastructure and quality public safety services create a satisfying environment. The Lisle/Woodridge Fire District has earned an ISO Class One Rating, the insurance industry’s high rating, which reflects the quality of the Fire Department and results in lower insurance rates. Lisle’s crime rate is low and the police are supportive and understand businesses’ needs.

The Village of Lisle has a track record of fiscal responsibility. Through wise financial stewardship, the Village reduced its property tax rate for twelve of the past fourteen years and has consistently earned awards for financial accountability.

Educated Ready Workforce

An educated, ready workforce is available in the area – more than 74% of the surrounding population is college educated and many have advanced degrees. This reflects the fact that Lisle is home to nationally recognized educational institutions such as Benedictine and National-Louis Universities. Close to 80% of the surrounding population is employed in professional, sales, management and financial occupations.

WorkNet DuPage, the county’s Workforce Development Division, is conveniently located in Lisle. This division supports businesses by offering recruiting services, job fairs, training, funding and more.

Strong Demographics Appeal to Businesses

Strong demographics make Lisle a desirable location for businesses. According to 2011 Claritas’s research, approximately 256,380 people live within a five mile radius of Downtown Lisle. This includes 98,116 households with an estimated average household income of $98,225. The estimated median value of owner occupied housing is $288,523. During the day, Lisle’s population increases by thousands as employees commute to our business districts and visitors travel to our many community treasures such as the Morton Arboretum.

Attractive housing Options

Living in Lisle is as desirable as working in the Village. Housing options range from expansive executive estates, single and multi-family homes, townhomes and condominiums, starter homes and apartments. As “The Arboretum Village,” Lisle has a large collection of mature trees and foliage throughout. Nature plays a dominant role in such subdivisions as Green Trails, which is nestled in 744 acres and includes 25 miles of trails, 9 lakes, 17 public parks, mature woods, grassy opens spaces and gentle hills.

Sustainable Focus

Lisle has always had a great appreciation for nature. To honor this connection, the Village is incorporating green or sustainable initiatives throughout the community. Many Lisle businesses have joined the Green By Choice program, and incorporate sustainability in their products, services and operations. Green retail, restaurants and businesses would strongly complement the Village’s sustainable focus.

Vibrant Downtown

Downtown Lisle, the heart of the community is continuing major redevelopment, which has transformed it into a pedestrian friendly, nature themed retail and restaurant district. A new prairie style streetscape encourages people to visit unique shops and restaurants or simply relax in front of stunning GardenWalk fountain. Each Saturday morning, the French Market transforms the downtown into a colorful open air market filled with fun conversation and one-of-a-kind treasures. Award winning PrairieWalk Pond features lighted walking trails, a pond lined with colorful native plantings, a gazebo, preserved wetlands and Dragonfly Landing, a wonderful children’s area that includes a splash pad.

Excellent Recreation Amenities

The world-renowned Morton Arboretum encompasses 1,700 acres of woodlands, wetlands, gardens and offers innovative exhibits and a variety of diverse activities. The Morton Arboretum can also be an asset to businesses, offering a unique location for meetings, receptions and other company functions.

The Bulls/Sox Training Academy is one of the country’s most sophisticated youth development facilities, featuring the same high-tech training and coaching techniques used by the Chicago Bulls and White Sox. The Village of Lisle/Benedictine Sports Complex hosts a variety of sporting and outdoor exhibition events.

The Lisle Park District’s 447 acres includes the award winning Sea Lion Aquatic Park, the River Bend Golf Course and Wheatstack, a Midwestern Eatery & Tap. The “Eyes to the Skies” Hot Air Balloon Festival attracts thousands of visitors annually and features colorful hot air balloons, entertainment, arts and crafts, food, a carnival and fireworks.

Lisle remains a welcoming place where individuals can still make a difference. The “Lisle Teens with Character” have won national recognition for their volunteer efforts while residents and business leaders serve on numerous committees. All share a genuine love for this community and a willingness to contribute their time and talent.

I invite you to learn more about the Village of Lisle, “The Arboretum Village.” I am sure you will agree Lisle is “Refreshingly Different” and the perfect location for your business!