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A Revitalized And Resilient Downtown Downtown Springfield is the heart of the community and region, the seat of state and local government, our cultural center, and the stage for our living history. Its success is our success. Downtown uses have shifted over the decades, slowly making way for an opportunity to rethink what Downtown can be for future generations. To act thoughtfully, we must plan and reimagine.
Downtown Master Plan A strategy to guide the renaissance of Downtown and strategically connect it to surrounding activity centers. The plan should address: • A strengthened connection between Downtown and the Mid-Illinois Medical District • Development and integration of uses: housing, employment, retail, entertainment, and cultural activity • Economic development, including support to retain and recruit retail and restaurants, employers and other sources of economic activity • Access and connections: one-way vs two-way streets, bicycle lanes, bus and shuttle services • Integration of critical projects and amenities: Third Street Rail Trail, activation of the North Mansion Block, Transportation Hub • Investment in public amenities and spaces: playgrounds and spaces, seating, public restrooms • Physical placemaking to connect assets and make the visitor experience unique • Establishment of a cultural district • Strategies to fund needed improvements, including feasibility for a Special Service Area (SSA)
Promising Ideas » Continuation and expansion of the alleyway beautification program » Development of more parklets © 2021 THE NEXT 10
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