History
More than 200 years ago, pioneering developers recognized the assets held by the region that is now Monroe County, Illinois. In 1780, American settlers made it the first permanent settlement in the entire Northwest Territory. The region became a steadfast destination relied upon by legendary explorers, spirited pioneers and mainstay settlers destined to shape the future of America through westward expansion. Among the region's value then: proximity to St. Louis - the famed Gateway to the West.

Two centuries later, Monroe County continues to prosper as it has remained capable of delivering components essential for a thriving community. The Southwestern Illinois County, initially a valued location that flourished as the United States of America flourished, continues to be an ideal location to live and work.

Why Monroe County, Illinois
Monroe County proved its value to a developing nation and continues to prove its relevance today. It is revered for many of the same qualities that literally put it on the map 200 years ago - location, proximity, infrastructure, transportation, natural resources and residents with equal dedication to work and family. Its current and future vitality is derived from assets within its borders and its valued connection to the St. Louis region.


Quality of Life
The long-lasting value of a community can be measured by its people and their unified dedication to creating a quality of life that transcends them. Monroe County has retained generations of families who cherish their status as founding families. And it has attracted thousands of newcomers. Together they have sustained a quality of life outwardly evident in the county's infrastructure, schools, recreation, government and civic leadership and its base of businesses, industry and agriculture.


"In Monroe County, commercial developers can leverage traditional and non-traditional assets. The development of Rock City is a prime example. Valmeyer converted former caverns in its limestone bluffs into a 6 million square foot commercial cold storage facility. A cost-efficient build out, coupled with State and Federal funding, enabled us to turn defunct property into useful property that meets the unique needs of a diverse group of tenants." Jeff Berry - Project Manager, Village of Valmeyer