SSGA Reports Strong Year for Sangamon County

The Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance (SSGA) is highlighting a banner year of growth, investment, and collaboration across Springfield and Sangamon County. Since its founding in 2018, SSGA reports generating more than $2.25 billion in economic growth for the region.

“2025 was an exciting year for Springfield and Sangamon County, with major projects and new investments really building momentum for our region,” said Ryan McCrady, CEO and President of SSGA. “From major employers and new businesses expanding their footprint to long-awaited redevelopment efforts moving forward, we’re seeing progress that strengthens our economy now and sets us up for continued long-term growth. The partnerships we’ve built over the past eight years are paying off, and we’re excited about the opportunities ahead.”

Among the highlights cited for 2025 is the completion and inflation of the Springfield Clinic Dome at SCHEELS Sports Park at Legacy Pointe, described as the largest air-supported sports dome in the world. The facility is expected to attract 250,000 new visitors annually and generate nearly $25 million in local revenue. SSGA also noted REEL USA Corp’s announcement of plans to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Springfield, expanding the county’s manufacturing footprint.

Additional SSGA-supported milestones include continued demolition progress at the former Pillsbury Mills site; the announcement of a data center by CyrusOne in Sangamon County; and a 20-year Community Benefit Agreement for the Double Black Diamond solar project with Swift Current Energy. The alliance also pointed to more desirable Chicago flight schedules by American Airlines at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport and the opening of a new 71,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution facility by Amazon.

“Each of these projects represents meaningful progress for our region and long-term opportunities for both our residents and local businesses,” McCrady said. “We’re continuing to see momentum across Springfield and Sangamon County, and these achievements are a strong reflection of years of hard work and collaboration coming to fruition, and they position our community for even greater growth in the future.”

SSGA also reported sponsoring nine community events, engaging in 40 project site searches, and conducting more than 125 business retention and expansion visits during the year.

McCrady added that job growth and career opportunities play a significant role in strengthening local economies by helping retain residents and attract new investment.

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Illinois Department of Employment Security, Springfield added roughly 1,900 nonfarm jobs since July 2024, marking its 21st consecutive month of year-over-year gains, while maintaining a below-average unemployment rate of 4.2 percent.