Waukegan

by The Linguist

Waukegan is a city located along the shores of Lake Michigan in Lake County, Illinois, about 35 miles north of downtown Chicago. With a population of around 87,000 as of the 2020 Census, it is the ninth largest city in Illinois.

History

The area was originally inhabited by the Potawatomi tribe before the first Europeans arrived in the late 1700s. The city itself was incorporated in 1849 and named after the Potawatomi word “Wau-ke-gan” meaning “fort” or “trading post”. Waukegan developed as a manufacturing and industrial hub, focused on food production, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Major employers included US Steel, Johns Manville, and Outboard Marine Corporation.

Demographics

According to 2020 Census data, Waukegan has a population of 87,028 people. The racial makeup of the city is 46.8% Hispanic/Latino, 20.9% white, 19.3% black, and 13% other races. Around 51% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The median household income is $53,928, with 21% of residents living below the federal poverty line.

Economy and Major Employers

Historically an industrial center, Waukegan’s economy today focuses more on light manufacturing, technology, healthcare, education, retail, and tourism. Some of the top employers in Waukegan include:

Recent economic development has focused on lakefront revitalization, with new hotels, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues along the harbor.

Government and Infrastructure

Waukegan has a mayor-council form of government. The current mayor is Ann Taylor, first elected in 2017. The eight city council members serve four-year terms. Waukegan’s government provides municipal services including police, fire, public works, water, and sewer.

For utilities, Waukegan is served by ComEd for electricity and Nicor Gas for natural gas. Telecommunications providers include AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Xfinity.

Transportation

Waukegan is easily accessible by major highways, rail lines, air, and lake transit:

  • Highways: I-94, US 41, IL 120, IL 43
  • Rail: Metra Union Pacific/North Line
  • Air: Waukegan National Airport for corporate and general aviation
  • Lake: Waukegan Harbor and Marina for commercial shipping and recreational boating

Waukegan operates a local bus system called Pace Waukegan with connections to other suburbs and Chicago.

Education

Public education in Waukegan is provided by Waukegan Public School District #60. The district has 1 early learning center, 13 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 2 high schools. Approximately 16,500 students are enrolled in District 60 schools. The city is also home to the Waukegan campus of the College of Lake County.

Higher education options in the area include University of Wisconsin-Parkside (20 minutes away), Northeastern Illinois University (25 minutes), Northwestern University (40 minutes), and the University of Illinois at Chicago (45 minutes).

Attractions and Things to Do

Some of the top attractions and activities in Waukegan include:

  • Bowen Park – 98 acre park with sports fields, playgrounds, and nature areas
  • Waukegan Symphony Orchestra – Professional orchestra with season performances
  • Geneva Lake Museum – Local history museum focused on Lake Geneva area
  • Waukegan Harbor and Marina – Harborfront shops, restaurants, and recreation
  • Waukegan History Museum – Exhibits on Waukegan’s history and culture
  • Six Flags Great America – Amusement park with roller coasters and entertainment
  • Lake Michigan beaches – Popular swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing

The Port of Waukegan offers seasonal tours and hosts community events. Popular annual festivals include the Waukegan Jazz Festival, ArtWise Fine Art Festival, and Cruz’n Into Summer Car Show.

Sports and Recreation

Waukegan is home to several professional sports teams and organizations:

Popular recreational opportunities include golf, boating, fishing, and water sports along Lake Michigan. Nearby forest preserves offer hiking, biking, camping, and nature viewing.

Shopping and Dining

Shopping destinations in Waukegan include the Waukegan Plaza Shopping Center, Fountain Square, and several downtown retail stores and boutiques. The city has an array of dining options, from family restaurants like Olive Garden and Applebee’s to local favorites like Lucas’ Egg House for breakfast.

For more information about visiting, living in, or doing business in Waukegan, check out the city’s official website. The Waukegan Facebook page also provides updates on local events and news.