Downtown Medical District Plan Passes Committee

A proposal aimed at encouraging economic development and housing opportunities in downtown Springfield advanced last week in the Illinois Senate.

The measure, Senate Bill 2829, passed the Senate Local Government Committee and would rename and expand the existing Mid-Illinois Medical District.

The Mid-Illinois Medical District was established in 2003 as a one-square-mile designation located just north of downtown Springfield. The district was created to attract and retain academic centers, health care facilities, medical research facilities, emerging high technology enterprises and other related organizations.

If approved, the legislation would rename the district the Capital City Downtown Medical District and expand its boundaries from Madison Street to South Grand Avenue, excluding the area designated as part of the master planning area for the Capitol complex.

Supporters say the changes are intended to encourage more economic development and revitalization in downtown Springfield.

“The issue I hear most from Springfield residents is ‘fix downtown,’” said State Senator Doris Turner of Springfield. “We all want downtown to thrive – local leaders, residents, businesses and organizations. That’s why we have to come together and work with those who want the best for the Capital City to revitalize downtown.”

The proposal would also expand the scope of the district’s governing commission. In addition to its current focus on health care facilities, the commission would also be able to support research and innovation and construct housing, educational buildings and research facilities.

“We’ve seen too many businesses come and go from downtown,” Turner said. “It’s past time we bring in much-needed economic development opportunities to bolster our community and breathe new life into this once buzzing central hub.”