Distinguished as the largest municipality in the southern suburbs, University Park lies primarily in Will County but also sprawls into Cook County. Commuters rely on Interstate 57 for connections to Interstates 80, 94, and 294. The Illinois Central Gulf Line provides rail service to the Loop. An active housing market features traditional home styles on well-kept properties with meticulous landscaping, although multi-family developments are also very popular. University Park was originally known as Park Forest South until the opening of Governors State University. The community changed its name in recognition of the prestige that this major institution of higher education brought to this area of Iovely subdivisions. Governors State complements the area's two-year institutions by providing the final two years of a baccalaureate degree program. The sprawling 1,000-acre Governor's Gateway industrial park is now home to thriving companies that include several highly visible giants. The large selection of fine homes, a growing local economy, the vitality of a college-town atmosphere, and excellent recreation opportunities keep University Park at the forefront of desirability.