The strong and warm community spirit that prevails in Lockport plays a vital role in attracting new residents and ensuring a high quality of life. The active chamber of commerce sponsors many of the city’s colorful special events and celebrations, including the annual golf outing, a business and community expo, the holiday tree lighting and Christmas Walk, and the Old Canal Days Parade. Along with neighboring Homer Township, Lockport is growing in popularity as a choice for suburban living. A prediction of a booming population has planners focused on protecting the old-world charm of the historic Main Street. The diverse housing mix includes classic and historic homes, suburban tract homes from the 1960s and ,70s, and contemporary new construction in a variety of architectural styles. An important growth factor is the city's location near the growing research corridor along Interstate 55. Lockport’s historic location along the Illinois and Michigan Canal makes it a point of interest in the National Heritage Corridor.