Janesville Wisconsin

Janesville is a city in Rock County, Wisconsin, with a population of approximately 60,000 as of 2019. It serves as the county seat and is part of the Madison metropolitan area. Named after its founder, Henry Janes, the city was established in 1835 near the Rock River. Growth was spurred by its role as a stagecoach stop to Chicago and the arrival of railroads in the mid-19th century, which connected it to other cities and fostered industries such as iron foundries and carriage manufacturing. Culturally rich, Janesville hosts annual events like Janesville Days, started in 1907, and features museums, a performing arts center, and art galleries. Notable individuals from the area include authors, musicians, actors, and politicians. Economically, Janesville thrives in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, education, and technology sectors, with key employers including Rock River Steel Company and Blackhawk Technical College. Agriculture is significant in the surrounding region. Transportation infrastructure includes a local bus system (Janesville Transit System), major highways like I-90/39, US Hwy 14 and 51, and state Hwy 26 and 11. The city's airport offers general aviation services, with nearby commercial airports in Madison and Chicago. Educational institutions include the Wisconsin School for the Blind and Visually Impaired since 1849, University of Wisconsin–Rock County, and Blackhawk Technical College, which partners with Upper Iowa University for degree programs. Media outlets such as The Janesville Gazette and weekly Messenger cater to residents, alongside various radio and TV stations. Historical and cultural resources include books and external links to official websites and ...