LaSalle, Illinois

LaSalle, Illinois

General Information
Name	LaSalle, Illinois
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	41°19 30°N
Map
Population
Total	9,582
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC-6
DST	UTC-5

LaSalle is a city in LaSalle County, Illinois, United States. It is part of the Ottawa-Peru, Illinois Micropolitan Statistical Area. The city was founded in 1852 and named after the French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle.

History

LaSalle was established in 1852, during a period of rapid growth in the region. The city's development was closely tied to the construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, which provided a critical transportation link between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. The canal played a significant role in the economic development of LaSalle and the surrounding area.

Geography

LaSalle is located at

   
       41°19 
       30°N
   

. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 13.9 square miles, of which 13.8 square miles is land and 0.1 square miles is water.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, LaSalle had a population of 9,582. The city has a diverse population with a mix of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The population density is approximately 694 people per square mile.

Economy

The economy of LaSalle has historically been based on manufacturing, transportation, and agriculture. The presence of the Illinois and Michigan Canal and later the Illinois Central Railroad contributed to the city's growth as a transportation hub. Today, LaSalle's economy is more diversified, with industries such as healthcare, education, and retail playing significant roles.

Education

LaSalle is served by the LaSalle-Peru Township High School District 120, which provides secondary education to students in the area. The city is also home to several elementary and middle schools.

Transportation

LaSalle is well-connected by several major highways, including Interstate 80 and Interstate 39. The city is also served by the Illinois Valley Regional Airport, which provides general aviation services.

Notable People

• René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle - The city's namesake, a French explorer known for his expeditions in North America.
• Other notable person

See Also

• Illinois and Michigan Canal
• Ottawa, Illinois
• Peru, Illinois
• LaSalle County, Illinois