The City of Springfield is one step away from acquiring the now vacant YWCA building and surrounding property in the downtown. Aldermen agreed to the deal during a Committee of the Whole meeting Tuesday night. Purchasing the almost 2 acres across from the Governor's Mansion, will cost the city over one and a half million dollars. The city will use Tax Increment Financing money to buy the land.
It's been a long process to get to this point. Ward Six Alderman Cory Jobe says this is property that's been targeted since he got elected.
“It’s really, I think, one of the most important blocks to be redeveloped in downtown Springfield since the presidential library and museum. So it’s that important to the downtown, it’s that important to the future of the urban core and I think it’s important that we hear from the leaders that are involved in the decision making in the city,” Jobe said.
Jobe says there are plenty of ideas for what to do with the space, from recreational and open space, to residential or business. The former YWCA building is expected to be demolished. If the city council approves the purchase next week, Jobe says the city could take it over within six months.
