The villages often attract new residents because they typically can offer somewhat lower housing costs and taxes, strong schools, small-town atmosphere and convenient transportation for commuters, said Jeurissen, who himself lives in St. Joseph. Interstate 74 links Mahomet and St. Joseph into Champaign-Urbana, and U.S. 45 through Savoy becomes Neil Street in the heart of Champaign. Jim Armstrong knows all about this recent growth spurt. More than a decade ago, Armstrong moved west from Champaign to Mahomet, where he stayed for 10 years. He then moved back to Champaign but returned to Mahomet a year ago.
Most people work in Champaign that live out here, but it's just away from the rat race.
That's basically what it's all about. That used to be country. Now you know what it's like, and that's what I'm afraid is going to happen here. Mahomet residents aren't alone as they wonder just what their population boom could bust. East of Champaign-Urbana, in St. Joseph, Trish Downes says she's seen the village change since her family left Champaign 10 years ago.