Spring Valley along the Illinois River loves its fishing
The city of Spring Valley is a community of about 5,400 tucked into the natural landscape in Bureau County, offering residents a small-town feel in a relaxing atmosphere along the Illinois River. Known as the “Sauger Capital of the World,” the city hosts the long-running kickoff event for the Masters Walleye Circuit. “It’s primarily a fishing community,” says Beth Coleman-Weger, a former resident who works for Local Realty Group Inc. “They have a lot of tournaments – some on the national level and some that are more local, a boat club and a Walleye Run 5K.”
Community, economy benefits from proximity to major interstates
The community borders Interstate 80, and Interstate 39 is close by. Those major highways attract big business. Spring Valley is home to one of the region’s largest employers, Walmart Distribution Center #6092. “A lot of people work there, and Walmart gives back to the community,” says Coleman-Weger, who says the company often donates to the efforts of Grow Spring Valley, a local nonprofit that supports small business and overall growth in the community. Manufacturing is also important to the regional economy, which is enhanced by the Bureau/Putnam Area Enterprise Zone.
Older homes are prominent among the various housing options
This community is home to an eclectic mix of housing. Older options featuring a variety of architectural styles are prominent. These homes, several of which have been renovated, are typically built close together and offer small yards along streets that feature sidewalks and an attractive collection of mature trees. Midcentury ranch-style homes with driveways and attached garages stand out among options offering more spacious lots. Prices typically correspond to age, with homes ranging from under $50,000 to as much as $300,000. In addition, contemporary homes can be found in subdivisions, and lots are being sold for new homes in such settings. Residents can expect hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The region is susceptible to tornadoes.
The river, Kirby Park are popular destinations
The Illinois River is a convenient source of adventure for boaters, anglers and outdoors enthusiasts. Residents have direct access within the community at Barto Landing and Coal Miners’ Park. Nearby Echo Bluff Park is a riverfront destination that offers activities as diverse as hiking, disc golf and ice skating. Kirby Park is the premier recreational destination within the community. The park hosts the annual Spring Valley Summerfest and the Harvest Festival/Ethnic Sausage Fest. The latter is sponsored by the Walmart distribution center. Mini Spring Park in the heart of town hosts concerts and other events. Its recent additions and the opening of a community center have been central to the community’s downtown revitalization efforts. Nearby Spring Creek Golf Course features a public, 18-hole layout.
Spring Valley supports high school sports
The community is served by a pair of one-school districts: Hall High School District #502 and Spring Valley Community Consolidated School District #94. Hall High School earns a B-rating by Niche. The current facility is the result of a multimillion-dollar renovation. The new campus, which features STEM classrooms, opened in 2015. Spring Valley takes pride in its athletic teams. “It’s a very big sports community,” Coleman-Weger says. “Diehard football fans.” Hall High also has a popular baseball program, which won a state title in 2018. Younger students can attend John F. Kennedy Elementary. The PK-8 institution is C-rated. Students can apply for out-of-district transfers, but under school board policy, parents are liable for the full cost of such a move, including tuition in the receiving district. This makes such transfers extremely rare.
Dining options spread around the community; shopping in Peru
Shopping and dining options are concentrated along St. Paul Street, a conveniently located commercial and service corridor that runs through downtown. More dining options can be found along U.S. Route 6. Neighboring Peru offers a wider variety of restaurants and shopping destinations anchored by big-box retailers Target and Walmart.
Convenient interstate access to Peoria, Chicago
Interstates 39 and 80 provide convenient travel to regional cities and other metropolitan areas. I-39 offers access to Peoria, about 60 miles away. General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport is the closest commercial facility. I-80 offers access to Chicago, about 100 miles away. OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center in Peru is less than 5 miles from the community.
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Written By
Matt Pallister
