Downtown Springfield

The Bus Stop plans on opening in a new downtown Springfield location after flooding canceled what was supposed to be its opening day.

Water flowed along the street and into nearby buildings.

The tax would collect 3% from hotel and motel stays throughout the county. Supporters say expansion is needed to retract and attract conventions.

The package would create a panel to oversee expansion of the Bank of Springfield Center and construction of a new adjacent hotel. It was touted as a way to bring more conventions and tourists to the downtown. But it received plenty of criticism.

Shows run Thursday nights from late May through late July.

While Illinois’ capital still grapples with post-pandemic challenges in the city center, officials anticipate record tourism numbers for 2026

A new authority would be created to help with expansion of the BOS Center and construction of a new downtown hotel.

Jacob Dinardo speaks about his recent opening of Arrowroot Coffee Co. in downtown Springfield. His journey as a coffee roaster from the farmer's market to his first brick and mortar business.

The plan is aimed at providing economic development and revitalizing downtown.

A coalition of Springfield proponents have come together to create a marketing campaign, My Heart's Downtown, to highlight the positive developments. Leah Wilson, Karen Conn and Jay Shanle share more.