Neighborhood profile: Churchill Woods, Winfield
Karen Cervenka and her husband moved to Winfield from Chicago 21 years ago when they started their family and wanted a suburban lifestyle.
They were quickly sold on the Churchill Woods subdivision because it featured new construction in Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200, a difficult combination to find at that time.
As an original owner, Cervenka says it's the people who live in the subdivision that make it such a wonderful place to live.
“People are very friendly, kind and outgoing, and they look out for each other. We've had some serious illnesses in the neighborhood, and people rallied around to give their support,” Cervenka said. “That really means a lot. People enjoy living here, and we have very little turnover. I love it here.”
Situated along Prescott Drive just west of Pleasant Hill Road and Parkway Drive, Churchill Woods is comprised of only five streets. And it backs to the Illinois Prairie Path, which has 60-plus miles of walking, biking and horseback riding trails, said Karen Blum, real estate broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage.
“It's also a healthy walk or an easy bike or car ride to town. And we're close to Central DuPage Hospital and the DuPage County Complex, both with good job opportunities,” Blum said.
“A distinctive aspect of the subdivision is that lots were sold individually, so that several different builders — all excellent builders well known in the area — purchased the lots,” Blum said. “This resulted in a nice variety of home styles in the subdivision.”
Churchill Woods features mostly two-story homes and a few ranch styles, many with hardwood floors and beautiful moldings, and some with a three-car garages. Lots of large trees and beautiful landscaping contribute to the community's curb appeal.
Residents range from young couples with small children to well-established families, Blum said. “And the community offers a variety of activities for all ages, including an annual progressive dinner. They also have a neighborhood directory for anyone who wants to participate.”
Cervenka knows all about neighborhood activities because she manages the holiday progressive dinner and maintains the directory.
“We just had our 23rd dinner, which is always the weekend after Thanksgiving,” Cervenka said. “It's always well attended. We had 72 people participating this year; and some years we've had 80-some people.
“I might organize it, but people are generous and open up their homes to everyone. We parade through the neighborhood to different homes for appetizers, dinner, and dessert and coffee. Other events include an Easter Egg Hunt in the spring and a block party in the fall.
“The neighborhood directory is a handout that includes names, addresses and phone numbers and ages of children so residents can connect with families with children the same age. It has worked out nicely.”
With a bounty of parks and forest preserves, including the historic Kline Creek Farm, Winfield is paradise for residents who enjoy nature, wildlife and outdoor recreation.
For other recreation, the Winfield Park District maintains the Charles R. Beggs Activity Center, 15 park sites with sports facilities including a skate park and picnic areas; a fishing pond, historical museum, veterans' memorial and canoe launch.
Winfield's Town Center revitalization encompasses 88 acres of prime property that will include new shops and restaurants alonmg with a Riverwalk and a pedestrian-friendly system of pathways surrounded by nature.
Winfield's small town charm, natural surroundings, convenient amenities, highly rated schools and the lowest crime rate in DuPage County make it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Listing sheet
<b>Price range: </b>$400,000 to $600,000
<b>Age of homes: </b>21 years
<b>Schools: </b>Pleasant Hill Elementary, Monroe Middle and Wheaton North High schools in Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200
<b>Parks: </b>Winfield Park District