📍 Location & Geography
West Springfield is a city situated in Hampden County, in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is located on the western bank of the Connecticut River, across from the city of Springfield. The city is bordered by Agawam to the south, Holyoke to the north, and Westfield to the west. It covers a total area of 17.5 square miles, of which 0.6 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of West Springfield are approximately 42.1072° N latitude and 72.6204° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
West Springfield is part of the Springfield Metropolitan Statistical Area, within the larger Springfield-Hartford Knowledge Corridor Metropolitan Region, which is home to over 1.9 million people. The city is spread over an area of 17.5 square miles, making it a moderately sized city within the region.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the 2020 U.S. Census, West Springfield has a population of approximately 28,529 people. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of different ethnicities and races. The median age of the population is around 39.4 years. The city has a slightly higher female population, with approximately 51.5% of the population being female.
🏛️ History
West Springfield was first settled in 1660 and was officially incorporated in 1774. It was originally part of Springfield, but separated due to a dispute over where to locate a new town meeting house. The city played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War and the Industrial Revolution, with several historic mills and factories located within the city.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
The city of West Springfield offers a variety of parks and green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy. Mittineague Park, one of the city’s largest parks, offers walking trails, sports fields, and a playground. The Connecticut River also provides opportunities for boating and fishing. The city is committed to preserving its natural resources and has several initiatives in place to promote environmental sustainability.
🏫 Education
West Springfield is served by the West Springfield Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and West Springfield High School. The city is also home to the West Springfield Public Library, which provides a range of educational resources and programs for residents of all ages.
🚧 Transportation
West Springfield is served by several major highways, including Interstate 91 and U.S. Route 5, which provide easy access to nearby cities and towns. The city is also served by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, which provides public bus service. The West Springfield Train Station offers rail service to various destinations.
📜 Trivia & Events
West Springfield is home to The Eastern States Exposition, also known as The Big E, the largest agricultural event on the eastern seaboard and the sixth-largest fair in the nation. The city is also known for its St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which is one of the largest in New England. The city’s rich history is celebrated through various events and festivals throughout the year.