Westwood, MI
- About Westwood
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare and Medical Institutions
- Sports and Sports Legends
Westwood is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Kalamazoo County, Michigan, functioning as a residential suburb of the nearby city of Kalamazoo.
About Westwood
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Westwood is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located within Kalamazoo Charter Township. It does not have its own municipal government and is statistically defined for population counts by the U.S. Census Bureau . It is situated in Kalamazoo County in the state of Michigan. Kalamazoo County is a region in Southwest Michigan known for its higher education institutions, including Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo College, and its historic ties to the pharmaceutical and paper industries.
Date of Foundation and Age
Unlike incorporated cities, unincorporated communities like Westwood often don't have a formal founding date. Its development began as a suburban residential area adjacent to the city of Kalamazoo, largely growing in the post-World War II era.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
Westwood is located in the western part of Kalamazoo Charter Township at coordinates 42.3031° N, 85.6286° W . It is bordered by the city of Kalamazoo to the south, east, and west . The elevation of the community is approximately 287 meters (942 feet) above sea level . It is situated in a region of glacial hills and plains characteristic of southwestern Michigan.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Westwood is primarily a residential suburb and does not have a large commercial or industrial base of its own. Its economy and identity are closely tied to the nearby city of Kalamazoo. Many residents work in Kalamazoo, which serves as a regional hub for healthcare (Bronson Healthcare, Ascension Borgess), higher education (Western Michigan University), and advanced manufacturing. As such, Westwood functions as a bedroom community.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Westwood had a population of 9,621 . It is considered a small community or large census-designated place. The population is diverse, with a median age of around 34.8 years . A significant portion of the population is highly educated, with over 54% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher .
"Visiting Card" of the City
Westwood is a quiet, residential enclave on the western edge of Kalamazoo, offering a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of a vibrant college town. Its main appeal is its proximity to the natural beauty of places like the Al Sabo Land Preserve and its convenient location just off M-43, connecting residents to both downtown Kalamazoo and the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
While no major rivers flow directly through Westwood, the community is situated near the Kalamazoo River, a significant waterway in southwest Michigan. The river, which flows roughly 130 miles to Lake Michigan, is a central feature of the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail, a multi-use path popular for walking and biking .
Natural and Nature Preserves
Westwood is adjacent to several significant nature preserves, offering residents ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
- Al Sabo Land Preserve: Established in the early 1970s, this large preserve features a network of trails through diverse habitats, including woods, wetlands, and meadows. It's a popular spot for hiking, bird-watching, and trail running .
- Lillian Anderson Arboretum: Owned and managed by Kalamazoo College, this arboretum encompasses marshes, meadows, and forests of pine and hardwood. It provides a serene setting for nature walks and environmental education .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Westwood has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. It experiences warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters .
Average Temperatures by Month
Temperatures vary significantly throughout the year. The warmest month is July, with an average high of 28°C (82°F) and an average low of 17°C (63°F). The coldest month is January, with an average high of -1°C (30°F) and an average low of -8°C (18°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being late spring through early autumn. The average yearly rainfall is about 37.5 inches . Snowfall is significant from December through March, with January averaging nearly 6 inches of snow accumulation .
Seasonal Highlights and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Westwood for warm-weather outdoor activities is from mid-June to early September, based on "tourism score" .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures gradually warm up, with increasing rainfall and the blooming of local flora. Highs range from 46°F (8°C) in March to 70°F (21°C) in May .
- Summer (June-August): Warm to hot weather prevails, with July highs averaging 82°F (28°C). It's the perfect time for exploring the Kal-Haven Trail and nature preserves .
- Fall (September-November): Crisp, cool air and vibrant fall foliage make this a beautiful time to visit. September highs are a pleasant 73°F (23°C), cooling to 46°F (8°C) by November .
- Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy, with January highs around 30°F (-1°C). This season is suited for winter sports or enjoying the quiet, snowy landscapes .
Landmarks and Attractions
Major Nearby Points of Interest
While Westwood itself is primarily residential, its location grants easy access to major attractions in and around Kalamazoo.
- The Kal-Haven Trail: Officially a "linear" state park, this 34-mile rail trail runs from Kalamazoo (near Westwood) west to South Haven on Lake Michigan. It is a premier destination for cycling, walking, and snowmobiling, passing through scenic rural landscapes .
- Kalamazoo Nature Center: A large nature center just a short drive away, offering miles of hiking trails through various ecosystems, a visitor center with educational exhibits, and a working farm .
- Western Michigan University: Located in nearby Kalamazoo, the WMU campus is a destination in itself, featuring notable architecture like Heritage Hall, the Richmond Center for Visual Arts, and Miller Auditorium, which hosts a variety of performances .
- Kalamazoo Valley River Trail: A developing 35-mile paved multi-use trail that loops around Kalamazoo County, providing excellent recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, with sections accessible from the Westwood area .
- Crossroads Mall: A major regional shopping center located nearby, offering a wide variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment .
Parks and Outdoor Recreation
- Al Sabo Land Preserve: As noted, this preserve is a key natural landmark for hiking and wildlife observation, protecting local groundwater and offering a natural escape .
- Lillian Anderson Arboretum: This arboretum provides a peaceful, educational setting with well-maintained trails through different forest and wetland types .
Transport
Main Highways and Roads
The primary road serving Westwood is M-43, a state highway that runs through the southern part of the community . M-43 provides a direct route east into downtown Kalamazoo and west for about 35 miles to the city of South Haven on the shores of Lake Michigan. Access to the interstate highway system, including I-94, is via the nearby city of Kalamazoo.
Public Transportation
Public transit in the Westwood area is provided by Metro Transit (Kalamazoo Metro), which operates bus services throughout Kalamazoo County. Several routes connect Westwood and the surrounding Kalamazoo Township area to downtown Kalamazoo, Western Michigan University, and other key destinations.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Trails
Westwood is well-connected to a growing network of non-motorized trails.
- Kal-Haven Trail State Park: This major trail's eastern trailhead is in Kalamazoo, easily accessible from Westwood .
- Kalamazoo River Valley Trail (KRVT): This paved trail system connects to the Kal-Haven Trail and provides routes along the Kalamazoo River, linking parks, neighborhoods, and other points of interest throughout the county .
Airports
The nearest major airport is the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO). It is located just a few miles southeast of Westwood and offers commercial flights to regional hubs like Chicago O'Hare and Detroit. For a wider range of international flights, Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids is approximately a one-hour drive north.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Westwood is a charter township in Kalamazoo County, and its educational landscape is closely tied to the neighboring city of Kalamazoo. The most significant institution in the immediate area is Western Michigan University (WMU) , located just east of Westwood in Kalamazoo.
- Western Michigan University (WMU) , founded in 1903, is a major public research university. It is particularly well-known for its programs in aviation (with its own College of Aviation and flight school at the nearby Battle Creek Executive Airport), engineering, business, and fine arts. WMU is a doctoral university with high research activity. Notable alumni include Tim Allen (Tim Allen) , an actor and comedian; Robert Mann (Robert Mann) , the founder of Moog Music; and numerous CEOs and NFL players. The university's main campus features historic buildings like East Hall and modern facilities, and it is home to the WMU Broncos, who compete in the Mid-American Conference (MAC). The campus, including its Miller Auditorium for performing arts, is a cultural hub for the Westwood and Kalamazoo community.
Additionally, Kalamazoo College (Kalamazoo College) , a prestigious private liberal arts college founded in 1833, is also located a short distance from Westwood. It is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States and is known for its rigorous "K-Plan" curriculum, which integrates liberal arts education with career development, study abroad, and internships. Its historic campus and the intellectually vibrant atmosphere it creates contribute significantly to the region's identity.
Healthcare and Medical Institutions
Residents of Westwood have access to excellent healthcare facilities in the neighboring city of Kalamazoo, which serves as a regional medical hub.
Bronson Methodist Hospital (Bronson Methodist Hospital) is a major teaching hospital and a tertiary care center located in downtown Kalamazoo. Founded in 1900, it is consistently ranked as one of the top hospitals in Michigan. It is particularly renowned for its stroke care, cardiac surgery, and maternity services, including a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The hospital is a Magnet-recognized facility for nursing excellence and serves as a clinical campus for the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed) . Bronson is a verified Level I Trauma Center, the highest level, capable of handling the most severe and complex injuries.
Ascension Borgess Hospital (Ascension Borgess Hospital) is another major medical center in Kalamazoo, founded in 1889. Part of the Ascension health system, it is a teaching hospital and a comprehensive stroke center. Borgess is particularly well-known for its cardiology and cardiovascular surgery, having been a pioneer in open-heart surgery in the region. It also has specialized institutes for orthopedics, neuroscience, and rehabilitation. Like Bronson, it is a clinical campus for WMed and provides a full range of medical and surgical services to the community.
Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed) is a private medical school jointly sponsored by WMU and Kalamazoo's two major health systems. Established in 2014, it has quickly become an integral part of the local healthcare landscape, training the next generation of physicians and conducting biomedical research.
Sports and Sports Legends
While Westwood itself does not have major professional sports venues, it is situated in a region with a vibrant sports culture centered in Kalamazoo.
Sports Teams Based in the Area
- Kalamazoo Wings (Kalamazoo Wings) , often called the "K-Wings," are a professional ice hockey team. They compete in the ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) and play their home games at Wings Event Center (Wings Event Center) , located just a few miles from Westwood. The team has a long and passionate history in the community, and the arena is a key entertainment venue for the region.
- Kalamazoo Growlers (Kalamazoo Growlers) are a summer collegiate baseball team playing in the Northwoods League. They play at Homer Stryker Field (Homer Stryker Field) in Kalamazoo's Mayors' Riverfront Park. The team is known for its fun, family-friendly atmosphere and has won multiple Northwoods League championships.
Famous Athletes Connected to the City
Kalamazoo has produced several notable athletes who have trained or competed in the area.
- Derek Jeter (Derek Jeter) , the legendary New York Yankees shortstop and Hall of Famer, was born in Pequannock, New Jersey, but he attended Kalamazoo Central High School. He was a standout baseball and basketball player there before being drafted by the Yankees, making him one of the most famous figures to come out of the local high school sports scene.
- Greg Jennings (Greg Jennings) , a former NFL wide receiver who won a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers, was born in Kalamazoo and played college football at Western Michigan University (WMU) , where he became one of the most accomplished receivers in the university's history.
- Tim Hiller (Tim Hiller) , another WMU football legend, held numerous passing records at the university and went on to play in the NFL, further cementing WMU's reputation for developing football talent.
- The Kalamazoo College (Kalamazoo College) men's tennis team, under longtime coach George Acker, has produced numerous NCAA Division III national champions and All-Americans, making the college a powerhouse in small-college tennis.
Major Sports Events
- The Kalamazoo Marathon (Borgess Run for the Health of It) is an annual road running event that takes place in early May. The course winds through the streets of Kalamazoo and surrounding areas, including near Westwood, attracting runners from across the region.
- The USTA Boys' Tennis National Championships (USTA Boys' Tennis National Championships) , also known as the "Kalamazoo tournament," is one of the most prestigious junior tennis tournaments in the world. Held annually at Kalamazoo College and nearby Western Michigan University, it has seen future tennis stars like John McEnroe (John McEnroe) , Jim Courier (Jim Courier) , and Andy Roddick (Andy Roddick) compete in their youth.