Plainfield is a village located in Will County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2010 census, the village had a total population of 39,581. Plainfield has seen significant population growth in recent decades, more than tripling in size since 2000.
Population
According to the latest Census data, Plainfield has an estimated population of 47,097 residents. The village has a population density of 2,082 people per square mile. The racial makeup of Plainfield is approximately 73.5% White, 11.5% African American, 0.3% Native American, 6.9% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 5.2% from other races, and 2.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race make up 15.6% of the population.
Over the past two decades, Plainfield has experienced rapid population growth. Between 2000 and 2010, the village’s population rose from 13,038 to 39,581 – an increase of over 200%. This growth has been driven by affordable home prices and the village’s proximity to major transportation routes.
Economy and Major Employers
Historically, Plainfield’s economy centered around agriculture. In the past few decades, the village has seen an increase in commercial and industrial development. Some of the major employers in Plainfield today include:
- F.M. Jones (construction) – over 1,000 employees
- Can Do National Tape (manufacturing) – over 300 employees
- Amazon (distribution) – over 1,500 employees
- Menard Inc. (home improvement retailer) – over 200 employees
- Plainfield School District 129 – over 1,000 employees
Other major employers include healthcare providers like Edward-Elmhurst Health and industrial firms attracted by the village’s prime transportation access. Plainfield is located near Interstate 55 and Route 59, providing easy access to the greater Chicago area.
Landmarks and Attractions
Some of the most notable landmarks and attractions in Plainfield include:
- Settlers’ Park – 67-acre public park with recreational amenities like trails, playgrounds, and athletic fields.
- DuPage River Trail – scenic biking and hiking trail following the DuPage River, traversing several forest preserves.
- Plainfield Historic District – downtown area with preserved 19th century buildings and architecture.
- Chicagoland Canopy Tours – treetop zip line and adventure course located just north of Plainfield.
- Plainfield Public Library – 38,000 square foot public library first opened in 1987.
Plainfield’s downtown district along Lockport Street features restaurants, boutiques, and small businesses set amongst historical architecture. The village hosts community events like the annual Plainfield Friday Night Car Show.
Government
Plainfield operates under a village administrator form of government. The village president and six trustees are elected to four-year terms. The village government provides services including police, fire, public works, water/sewer, and community development to residents and businesses. Plainfield is located primarily in Will County with a small portion of the village in Kendall County.
Sports
Plainfield doesn’t have any major professional sports teams. However, youth sports are popular in the village. The Plainfield Park District offers various athletic programs for kids. Plainfield is also home to the Plainfield Central Wildcats and Plainfield North Tigers high school sports teams. The village’s Settlers’ Park contains facilities for baseball, softball, soccer, and other sports.