The Village of Brookfield is a dynamic, strategically located community of 19,500 residents located in western Cook County, approximately 13 miles west of downtown Chicago. A non-home rule municipality, Brookfield was incorporated in 1893 as the Village of Grossdale, and was renamed the Village of Brookfield in 1905. The Village is the home of the Brookfield Zoo, owned by the Cook County Forest Preserve District and operated by the Chicago Zoological Society. The zoo is located primarily within the corporate boundaries of the Village. The Village has a land area of approximately 3 square miles, with 64 square acres of parkland. Once a rolling field of daisies and wild asparagus, Brookfield has grown into a progressive, friendly community known for its mature trees, well maintained residences, and a charming downtown. This quiet atmosphere takes you away from the bustling business world of nearby suburban communities and the City of Chicago yet is only minutes away from downtown Chicago by rail. Residents consider Brookfield the best kept secret in the western suburbs of Chicago. Brookfield offers a vibrant diverse community supporting a variety of churches, good schools, an excellent library, low taxes, convenient transportation, and extensive parks and recreation programs. The Village is committed to economic development, modernizing, building and making the neighborhoods better and safer. Whether shopping, dining, or enjoying the world-class Brookfield Zoo, visitors find it a remarkable and friendly place. Brookfield is truly a community in every sense of the word.