What the neighbors say about Bradford Place

"My son-in-law bought a home in Bolingbrook, and we were living in Chicago at the time. I had a three flat and we were getting worried about the problems in that neighborhood. We made the move to this subdivision about 10 years ago. It just made sense to move out here -- it's safe, we're close to family, and it's well mixed and grouped. It's such a good street. Everyone gets along and we all help each other. For instance, if I see something out of the ordinary I'll let my neighbors or the police know, and they do the same for me. We also found the Levy (Senior) Center after we moved out. My wife Dorothy volunteers at the reception desk one day a week. Moving here has just be a good in so many ways!"

William "Bud" Simonton, Bradford Place resident

"I was working here in Bolingbrook when I met my husband. We both wanted children and I knew a little bit about the city because my mother and sister had houses out here and really liked it. We talked a lot about it and it seemed like a good place to start a family. We bought this place six years ago and we really like it! Now we have two little ones, a boy and a girl. I like that there is a park close and that the neighbors are so quiet, and I like that it's not too crowded."

Susy Monroy, Bradford Place resident (with daughter Lolis, 1, and niece Samantha Chavez, 8)

In 1990, a builder named Smykal introduced three two-story furnished models in the Bradford Place subdivision. Buyers could choose from eight floor plans which included five two-story, one split level, one ranch and one Cape Cod model. In the early '90s prices for the three- and four-bedroom homes averaged $150,000. Today, the subdivision contains 188 homes which are in listed for sale in the $220,000 to $270,000 price range.

Early marketing literature emphasized that Smykal sought to create a community of traditional homes, designed appeal to families who wanted the basics of quality and a workable floor plan that reflected the "American" way of life.

Mighty neighborly: Tom Nimakoh, who has only lived in Bradford Place for a mere two months, is already sold on the friendliness of his neighbors. He is fond of plants and has spent much of his free time in the yard. An elderly couple who took note of this and gave him two evergreens as a housewarming gift.

Resident perk: Very little through traffic due to its location, tucked away off Weber Road.

1. Bradford Park There is an abundance of open space 6.8 acres to be exact which is great for kite flying on a lazy afternoon. The park also features a playground for children ages 2 through 12, a fishing pond and picnic tables.

Address: 490 Bradford Place 2. Bella Vista Adult Resort Community

The sales office to what is billed as luxury ranch townhomes and condominiums for adults over 55 is located just off the entrance to Bradford Place Drive. Models can be found inside the sales office that simulates how the community will look. Prices start in the $260,000s and all residents will have access to a full service clubhouse that is also yet to be built.

Address: Bradford Place Drive and Weber Road

From I-55: Exit Weber Road and continue north, then turn right into the subdivision entrance at Bradford Place Drive.

Bradford Place can also be accessed by winding through the Pepper Tree subdivision. Turn off Veterans Parkway onto Ingleside Drive, then follow Ingleside a short way until it winds into Quail Run Drive, which runs into Bradford Place Drive.