Settled in 1836 and incorporated in 1873, Lemont is one of the oldest and charming communities in northeastern Illinois. With rolling hills, three waterways, and its historic downtown, Lemont offers a setting and atmosphere unique to the Chicagoland region. The village is one of the key communities within the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor.

Lemont’s colorful early history began in the late 1830’s with the construction of the I&M Canal, and with the influx of immigrant workers who settled and remained. By the mid-1800’s, limestone quarrying became the big business in Lemont and was the main cause of the town’s growth. Many fine local examples of buildings constructed with Lemont limestone still exist, including the Historic Chicago Water Tower landmark on Michigan Avenue. Local government and community volunteers have forged strong partnerships to rejuvenate both the I&M Canal and the old limestone quarries, with the goal of utilizing them for recreational and commercial use.

Our proximity to 1-355, I-55 and I-80, makes Lemont a prime destination for business development. Metra’s Heritage Corridor commuter line provides a convenient transportation link to the City of Chicago.

To further preserve its historic heritage and to stimulate economic growth, Lemont has prioritized the revitalization of its historic downtown area, which offers charm, beauty and plenty of atmosphere. Downtown Lemont attracts the local community, tourists and the filming industry with its intact historic architecture, a great variety of specialty shops & restaurants, and adjoining recreational areas.

The Village has five TIF districts and has assembled parcels for future development. Additionally, the Village offers façade grants for preservation of historic buildings and considers development incentives on a case-by-case basis.

The Planning & Economic Development Department can provide detailed demographic, consumer spending, and retail demand reports for the Village or a particular site, upon request. Please contact the Planning & Economic Development Department for more information.