Janet, a Town of Brookfield resident, has lived in the Elmbrook area for nearly 40 years and is an avid gardener and volunteer. Her blog focuses on the city and town of Brookfield – past, present and future.
A reader recently challenged me to stay in the town of Brookfield. This challenge reminded me of New Year's resolutions. Two years ago, I resolved to stop safely at yellow lights. Last year, I resolved to turn left only at controlled intersections. I became more conscious of my actions.
So, I did accept the challenge to stay out of the city.
I began failing on day one when I needed to bank in Brookfield and stop at the post office box. I was more optimistic on subsequent days. Because the west side of Brookfield Road is in the town, I drove south to Highway 18 (a state highway) to travel east or west.
I spent the next few days (and my money) in Elm Grove and the town of Brookfield. Certainly a trip to a hospital in Menomonee Falls must be excused.
After not succeeding at this challenge, I concluded it is impossible to stay in the town of Brookfield. The city surrounds (or engulfs) the town, the village of Elm Grove and Butler. Visually, it's almost like the other towns and villages are in the palm of the city's hand.
I learned recently that the city was formed fifty plus years ago to secure its borders. In earlier settlement days the "Brookfield Township" was 36 square miles. It is now 27 square miles.
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I like Elm Grove. The speed limit is 25 mph except for its perimeter roads (Bluemound, North Ave., 124th Street and Pilgrim Parkway). Elm Grove's downtown is quaint. Its buildings don't resemble stage sets. The community is cohesive. I prefer the village library over the city of Brookfield's.
