Springfield Unveils Downtown and Medical District Plan

The City of Springfield, in partnership with several local organizations, has completed a comprehensive Master Plan for Downtown Springfield and the Mid-Illinois Medical District. The plan, developed with input from community stakeholders, is intended to guide future development in these areas.

“We are looking forward to sharing this Master Plan with the community,” said Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher. “This document will guide city staff, officials, and community stakeholders in decision-making and visioning for downtown Springfield.”

On October 24, the city hosted an open house at the Memorial Learning Center, and on October 25, a presentation was held at the Citizen’s Club at Hoogland Center for the Arts, where residents had the opportunity to learn about the plan and ask questions. A final presentation to the City Council is scheduled for November 12.

Abby Powell, director of Business Development for the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance, emphasized the plan's importance for future investments: “The Master Plan is a clear roadmap for future development in downtown Springfield and the Mid-Illinois Medical District... This plan offers the certainty needed to invest with confidence in Springfield’s future.”

The project began in 2021 after downtown revitalization was identified as a key issue in The Next 10 initiative, led by the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln. John Stremsterfer, president and CEO of the foundation, highlighted the importance of community input in shaping the plan.

Ryan Croke, president of the Mid-Illinois Medical District Commission, called the plan “a long-awaited, crucial road map to help us attract the investment and talent that will define our city's future.”

Carlos Ortega, executive director for Downtown Springfield, Inc., added, “Downtown Springfield has so much potential... I am excited to share the elements of this plan and work with our community to make this vision a reality.”