1979
A parcel of land just south of town was rezoned from agricultural to residential in the first step to the development of the Firethorn Subdivision.
In August 1979, it was reported in the Peoria Journal Star that the Cherry Tree Shopping Center would be constructed and two of the stores would be Kroger and Super X Drugs. Construction began in October of 1979.
The Illinois Central Gulf track emanating from Wood Street and heading north out of town was abandoned. The path is now part of the Washington Recreational Trail.
Washington's phone prefix was changed from 283 to 444.
"The Blizzard of '79" slammed Washington.
Rax Roast Beef opens in Washington and had a 15-year run.
John Venturi was hired as the next WCHS football coach.
Most of the south side of the square was completely reconstructed by Don Smelz with new office facades for addresses 112-116 Washington Square.
Russ Lance became the first WCHS wrestler to place at the state meet, finishing 4th at 155 pounds.
A new "Welcome to Washington" sign was built by Wesley Wenger and placed and Rt 8/24 intersection.
On August 16, 1979 the inaugural run through the fitness parcourse in Washington Park took place.
