Insurance in Essex Junction, VT

History and Geography

Essex Junction, Vermont is a village located within the town of Essex. It is located in the southwest corner of the town, with the Winooski River to the south. It is directly east of Burlington, the largest city in Vermont, and directly between Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains. Essex Junction covers 4.7 square miles, and has a population of approximately 9,000 residents.

Essex was incorporated in 1763, named after the Earl of Essex. In 1892, some residents within Essex voted to provide public services, while others were opposed. This caused a split that ultimately resulted in the formation of the village of Essex Junction. Today Essex and Essex Junction maintain separate municipal services, fire departments, parks, libraries, and lower schools, but they share a police department and high school. Attempts to merge the village and town back together have been defeated in several elections.

Industry and Culture

Essex Junction is a major transportation hub for the Champlain Valley Area. Major routes run through town including 15, 2A, and 117. Additionally, Amtrak runs daily service to this area from Washington D.C., known as the Vermonter line (formerly the Montrealer line).

In the 1950s, this village was chosen by IBM as an ideal site for its Delta Processing Division. The coming of IBM to the village transformed the area and provided many jobs for local residents. Starting with 500 employees, this location grew to employ 8,000 workers in the 1980s. Though scaled back, it now operates as Global Foundries, with about 3,000 employees. It is the largest industrial facility in the state.

Also in the village is the Champlain Valley Expo, a converted racetrack that now hosts concerts and other events. The largest event each year is the Champlain Valley Fair, Vermont’s largest fair. It combines an agricultural exhibit, commercial exhibits, local and regional food vendors, midway games and rides, and concerts, bringing in visitors from all over the state.

Champlain Valley Region

The Champlain Valley region of Vermont is the area of Chittendon County between Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains. It is the most populated region in the state, containing the most populous and largest cities and towns, such as Burlington. It is also the most prolific agricultural area in the state.

Throughout the area are a large range of cultural and recreational opportunities. From the college town of Burlington, with its thriving art and theater scene, to the highest peak in the state with world-class winter sports, the Champlain Valley is a popular area to live, work, visit, and play. Each season has its own unique offerings, including hiking, skiing, swimming, and stunning fall foliage.

Essex Junction, located in the heart of the Champlain Valley Region, is a prime example of all this area has to offer. Robust industry, cultural events, and local charm all contribute to the appeal of Essex Junction and the Champlain Valley region of Vermont.