Silvis is home to the renowned Hero Street, dedicated to the eight soldiers who lived along it and gave their lives in the Second World War. More than 100 residents of the 25 houses on Hero Street have been signed up for military service since WWII.
Communities with small populations don't always get the pleasure of considering themselves a "village" or a "town." Silvis, however is a superstar with a small populace, proudly proclaiming itself a full-blown city with only 7,500 residents. Egotistic? Maybe. Positive thinking? Most definitely. This little city is located in Rock Island County, Illinois.
Moving to Silvis
There are a couple of things to know about moving to Silvis that will really make the transition easier on you. Unless you enjoy spending time in the dark without a working refrigerator or plumbing, that is.
Utilities
There is a one-stop shop for setting up your water, trash collection and recycling, and that place is the City of Silvis -- as in the municipal government building. Give them a call or drop by in person to register for your new accounts, and give the workers a few weeks' notice to get everything ready before your move-in date, just in case. New account hookups need a $100 deposit, which is refundable after 2 years so long as the account is in good standing. Save yourself some time and ask the department clerk about your choices for cable, internet, gas and power -- new accounts with these providers will also require deposits.
Property Rentals in Silvis
Chances are, you'll need to start looking for apartments for rent or rental homes in Silvis several months ahead of your anticipated moving date. Why? There's just not a lot of turnover around here, and people like to stay put. Get to know a realtor in the area and ask him or her to keep you updated on the local listings. Whether you are looking for a cute, square colonial house or a modern, sprawling split-level heavy on the garage, Silvis has just the thing. Be patient and you'll find the perfect property rental you are looking for!
Neighborhoods in Silvis
Are you wondering how a city so small can have official neighborhoods? You're a smart cookie -- this place really doesn't have anything resembling the communities and suburbs of a large, some might say "real" city. It does, however, have varying characteristics from place to place.
North: The northern section of Silvis is delineated by Highway 92; north of this road, there are no homes or commercial buildings, only railroad facilities. Suffice it to say that you don't need to conduct a search for a rental apartment in this section of town, but if you're into trainspotting you might fancy a walk out this way now and then.
City Center: The City Center is just south of the Highway 92 divide, which become 1st Avenue. Most public amenities are located here, including the Post Office, banking centers, restaurants and Shadt park. There are a few apartments and houses here, especially to the south. Hero Street is located in the northwest corner of this section.
South: Everything south of Crosstown Avenue is characterized by residential spaces, small businesses and the Wal-Mart Superstore. You'll also find a few more public parks and newer homes here. The far south of Silvis, by John Deere Road, is sparsely populated.
Living in Silvis, Illinois
The John Deere Classic
Silvis has been hosting the annual John Deere Classic of Golf since 2000, on the TPC Deere Run Golf Course. Whether you're an amateur or a fanatic, get out there and try one of the most televised golf courses in the history of the game! You can watch the pros take the course on every July.
Transportation
There is no public transportation in Silvis, so you'll need your own vehicle to get around for chores, shopping and commuting to and from work. A Walk Score of 55 means that you can get a few errands done on foot or even by bicycle, but you shouldn't leave this as your only option.
Grocery
Tony's Food Market, San Lues Grocery and Aldi's are all within the Silvis city limits, but there are a few bigger stores just a couple of miles away if you prefer to shop at Casey's General Foods or Wal-Mart. There are plenty of little corner grocery stores in town as well, so you'll never be far from the necessities!