MAKING EXCEPTIONAL PLACES
Community Revitalization
For over a century, Springfield was recognized for its beautiful downtown south of Buck Creek with its many architecturally significant and distinguished buildings. Many of these buildings remain as cherished treasures that suggest a downtown of a unique and important architectural heritage.
Once a thriving industrial city of 83,000, with a rich history of leading manufacturing in the world, today Springfield faces challenges not unlike many other cities across the US—the loss of employment, the exodus of the urban population to the suburbs, and disinvestment in the traditional downtown. In 2000, the Springfield community decided to proactively address these critical challenges. With the help of civic-minded organizations like Center City Association, Turner Foundation, and Springfield leaders, hosted a Regional/Urban Design Assistance Team (comprised of an expert team of architects and planners and student architects) led a 5-day intensive AIA sponsored RUDAT program.
A recent decision by the local hospital to construct a new $260 million facility downtown, helped jump-start and renewed interest, this, coupled with commitments by Wittenberg University, Clark State, the Chamber, and many other civic-minded organizations to contribute and support downtown investment has built momentum behind community revitalization. This collaborative leadership along with area businesses/residents provide a unique opportunity to shape the city’s development over the next 50 years. There is an unprecedented spirit of cooperation among many partners, this coupled with a strong commitment by community’s government leaders to advance urban revitalization and to realize the potential for the successful future development of our downtown area, and the greater Springfield region.
The City of Springfield held a 2-day comprehensive planning workshop in 2006. The objective was to unify development projects of major community development contributors under a master plan for the city. Participants included Government officials, zoning officials, engineers, Wittenberg University, Clark State, Community Mercy Health Partners, and corporate leaders from advanced manufacturing and technology industries within the region.
The new Sara T. Landess Technology & Learning Center Clark State Community College
Airpark Ohio, adjacent to Springfield Beckley Municipal Airport, responds to demand for exceptional transportation systems needs; this business park site efficiently provides access for companies that serve markets that extend throughout North America and the world.
Planned along the Buck Creek in 2009, the recreational water sports run will be comprised of four whitewater stations.
The downtown Marketplace Building was renovated in 2000, and reopened as the Heritage Center Museum.
The design for the new Springfield Regional Medical Center is built on guiding principles of clinical excellence, providing the highest quality healthcare experience possible. The hospital will offer full service medical care, with private patient rooms equipped with the most advanced care technology.
National Trail Parks Recreation District completed the new Family Aquatic Center (Splash Zone) in 2007. This new waterpark, along with the proposed Ice Arena is part of a $17 million investment for renewal, upgrade and additional facilities of the local parks and recreation amenities.
The City of Springfield recently completed a comprehensive review and overhaul of zoning regulations to provide greater incentive and greater flexibility to downtown property owners, developers, and investors in order to enable and support new downtown development and urban revitalization.
The new Springfield High School, designed by MKC Associates, fulfills a vision and elevates secondary educational capabilities to one of best in the state. Opened in September 2008, the $12 million facility boasts state-of-the-art academic, administrative, sports, and high tech communication capabilities.
In addition Springfield City Schools recently completed construction of 10 new elementary schools, 4 new middle schools and Keifer Alternative School. The new schools were part of a $166 million renewal project offered under the Ohio School Facilities Commission and a local match of $60 million was contributed.
The Champions Center, completed in 2003, was the first major addition to the Clark County Fair Grounds which offers one of the largest County Fairs in the state of Ohio.
Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Springfield serves as the business hub of downtown, its renovation offered a major component of redevelopment to Springfield’s downtown revitalization. The Courtyard by Marriott and Mela has given the community a downtown destination for an upscale hotel/dining experience.
New Ice Hockey and Sports Arena is planned for downtown area.
Phase I Site – Nextedge Applied Research Technology Park.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Westcott House
The Clark State Performing Arts Center, designed by NBBJ Architects provides first-class arts, music and educational facilities for the Springfield community. Opened in 1996, the $15 million facility is recognized by patrons and performers alike for its state-of-the-art amenities.
The City of Springfield’s public officials and private residents, business and civic leaders share concerns and ideas during a recent RUDAT support downtown revitalization.
Some of the country's best cyclists take to the streets of downtown for the Center City Criterium. It isn't just the streets that will be abuzz with activity - the entire day is devoted to family-friendly fun in the heart of town.
Springfield’s reputation for innovative, quality manufacturing, its beautiful parks, and historic downtown along the banks of Buck Creek, its history as a leading center of commerce in the United States. Insightful developers created many quaint residential areas – noteworthy for their comfortable scale, and sensitivity to design. Beautiful neighborhoods, many with broad lawns, wide pedestrian walkways, and lush tree lined boulevards. And, the highly acclaimed local arts and cultural amenities provide rich entertainment and creative experiences for its residents and visitors alike. These all contribute to the wonderful and unique heritage of Springfield.
In 2004, local leadership, community advocates, and the business community recognized the need to identify Springfield, Ohio – “brand” it as a community that is proactively on the move, continuing to push forward, and working to improve. Today, even under the serious challenges of these economic times – Springfield, Ohio, is a community with a vision toward the future, a vision for renewed development and success. The American dream is still alive in this small Midwest city.
Built in 1916, Center City Association members, Springfield public officials, and RUDAT team members visit the Veterans Memorial Hall and explore possible reuse options. The building closed September 1, 1985.
The community of Springfield has been nationally recognized for its educational institutions, extensive arts and cultural institutions, access to national markets, comfortable and affordable housing, and amenities that enhance the lives of the people and families that live and work in this wonderful Midwestern city.