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Willard, Missouri

Population: 2,177
Located in Greene County

The City of Willard was incorporated in 1949, and the current population is 3,193. Willard has a fairly moderate climate with the coldest month of January at a minimum temperature of 22 degrees. Average participation for the year averages 40 inches of rain and 17 inches of snow.

The city is very family-oriented with a very active Parks Department. The Parks Department has year-round youth sports programs, which serve all of northwestern Greene County. A $1.3 million sports and recreation center was completed in May 2002.

The Willard School District is highly regarded in educational circles throughout the state. The district currently has four elementary schools, one junior high and one high school. Within easy driving distance of Willard are vocational schools, public colleges, and a university.

Early businesses in Willard located along the rail line in what is now the old downtown. By 1908 the downtown was beginning to take on an aura of permanency, with brick buildings and important businesses such as a bank, hotel, general store, stock yards, and a lumber yard. Many of these early businesses which catered to the local farm economy and railroad travelers are no longer in operation. A decreasing demand for the area's farm produce, along with the growing dominance of Springfield as an employment center, have changed the community's economic base. Today, most Willard residents are employed in Springfield and the local economy is focused principally on retail trade and service industries.

Since 1990, new commercial businesses have developed and the City has seen healthy residential growth. Several new community facilities have been developed to serve Willard's people. A new city hall, community center, park and swimming pool are located on Jackson Street west of the downtown.

Another new addition to the City is the Frisco-Highline Trail that is being developed on the old railbed abandoned by the Burlington Northern Railroad. The same railway line that influenced Willard's growth in the 1800's is an enhanced community amenity for residents and visitors alike.

Housing here tends to be more rural, although there are some sub-divisions with smaller lots. Prices vary widely between neighborhoods, and you can find a three-bedroom home for as little as $50,000 all the way up to $250.000.

Willard is a wonderful location because of its proximity to Springfield, Missouri. With all the amenities that both Willard and Springfield offer, you will always find something to do here in the heartland of the American landscape.

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