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The City of Springfield
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Celebrating the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument Designation
The City of Springfield recently celebrated a historic milestone with the designation of the Springfield 1908 Race Riot Site as a National Monument. The event took place at Bunn Auditorium, located within HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital.
This designation by President Joe Biden officially establishes the site as part of the National Park Service and ensures archeological protection near Madison and 9th Streets, where racial violence broke out in 1908.
Beyond preserving these artifacts, the new monument will honor the pivotal role that the 1908 Race Riot played in shaping the Civil Rights Movement and the formation of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
The City of Springfield is proud to have this monument as a symbol of reflection, remembrance, and progress, connecting our history to the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. This recognition also represents the collaboration of local, state, and national efforts to safeguard this important chapter in American history.
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The Holiday Planter Contest is Back!
Help us beautify downtown this holiday season
The Holiday Planter Contest is back! After several years on hiatus, the City of Springfield is excited to welcome back this festive event, and the best part—entry is free!
On behalf of the City of Springfield, the Department of Public Works, and the Mayor's Office, we thank you for your interest in this opportunity to showcase your creativity and talents. As we reintroduce this beloved tradition, we aim to keep the rules simple while encouraging everyone to be as creative as possible.
How it works: Each participant or group will be assigned a downtown planter. With 219 planters available, they will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants can decorate their assigned planters from November 16 to November 29. If you would like a planter near your business, group, or non-profit, you may make a request when registering.
Contest Rules:
- Registration: Complete the form before a planter can be assigned.
- Safety: No fire hazards (e.g., candles) are allowed.
- Size: Decorations must not exceed 2 feet in height.
- Content: No explicit language, sexual content, or drug references are permitted.
- Durability: Decorations must be weather-resistant, and participants are responsible for any repairs.
- Planter Care: No permanent alterations to City property are allowed.
- Neutrality: No political statements or endorsements are permitted.
- Promotion: You may incorporate or promote your business, group, or non-profit within the display.
- Ownership: Decorations remain the property of the participant. The City is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
- Entry Cards: Two entry cards will be provided; one must be displayed with your planter, and the other must be kept by the participant.
- Decorating Period: Participants may decorate their planters between Saturday, November 16, and Friday, November 29.
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Judging: Judging will take place from November 30 to December 9, with the Holiday Planter Committee awarding first, second, and third place.
We can't wait to see the creativity and holiday spirit this contest will bring to downtown Springfield! Happy decorating!
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Downtown & Medical District Master Plan – Public Events
We are excited to share the latest updates on the development of the Downtown Springfield & Mid-Illinois Medical District Master Plan. The public is invited to attend the following events to learn more about the plan and ask questions:
Thursday, October 24
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Open House
Memorial Learning Center – Springfield
Friday, October 25
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM (doors open at 7:30 AM)
Citizen’s Club
Hoogland Center for the Arts
Tuesday, November 12
5:30 PM
City Council Presentation (via Zoom)
The Master Plan is a collaboration among the City of Springfield, Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance, Downtown Springfield, Inc., and the Mid-Illinois Medical District. It was born out of an idea generated through The Next 10 community visioning project and has been developed to serve as a blueprint to help guide future land use and development, transportation and parking, pedestrian mobility, and streetscape improvements. Hundreds of local residents have engaged in the development of the plan through participation in community workshops and meetings, questionnaires, and robust online tools that enabled users to drop points and enter comments on a map of Downtown Springfield and the Medical District.
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October is Fire Prevention Month
This October, we’re raising awareness for Fire Prevention Month. Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility, and this month is a great opportunity to brush up on life-saving practices to protect your family, home, and community.
Here are a few key Halloween fire safety tips to keep in mind:
- Place lit pumpkins on sturdy surfaces and well away from doorsteps or pathways where they could be easily knocked over.
- If decorating indoors, ensure exits aren’t blocked by decorations in case of emergency.
For more tips and resources, visit the Springfield Fire Department’s website.
Stay safe, Springfield!
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Lake Area Disposal has taken over the Yard Waste/Leaf Pickup program. While the pickup provider has changed, the current schedule remains the same.
Pickup Schedule:
North Zone – This area includes all properties north of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road, including properties west of Veterans Parkway and north of Iles Avenue. The pickup dates for this area are as follows:
- October 21
- November 4, November 18
- December 2, December 16, December 30
South Zone – This area includes all properties south of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road, including residential areas around the lake. The pickup dates for this area are as follows:
- October 28
- November 11, November 25
- December 9, December 23
Reminder: Please ensure your yard waste bags and containers are curbside by 6:00 a.m. on the Monday of your scheduled week. It is important to note that yard waste should not be placed on or near certain structures, as this may cause damage during collection. Please avoid placing yard waste and branches on or near the following:
- Manholes
- Handholes
- Junction Boxes
- Meter Pits
- Standpipes
- Sprinkler Heads
- Inlets
- Drains
- Poles/Posts
- Guy Wires
- General Equipment or Structures
- Sidewalks
- Bike Lanes
- Boulevards
Additional Information:
The Public Works Department provides a frequently updated map, available at City of Springfield—Home of Abraham Lincoln. For questions or concerns, contact Lake Area Disposal at springfieldyw@lakeareadisposal.com or call 217-522-9317. Alternatively, you can reach the City of Springfield’s Department of Public Works at public.works@springfield.il.us or call 217-789-2255.
Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our city clean and safe!
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2024 Leaf/Yard Waste Curbside Pick-Up Schedule
The yard waste/leaf pick-up program is a 12-month, every other-week collection program. Stickers are not required. The community is divided into two pick-up zones: North and South. Crews will alternate every other week in each “zone,” picking up yard waste. See the map and October schedule above.
North Zone: North of South Grand Ave. and Old Jacksonville Rd. Including properties west of Veterans Parkway/north of Iles Avenue. (Green)
South Zone: South of South Grand Ave. and Old Jacksonville Rd. Including residential properties around the lake. (Pink)
Reminders:
- Bags must be placed curbside by 6:00 a.m.
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Bags should not be placed on boulevards.
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To estimate when your yard waste will be picked up, crews work from west to east in each zone. An interactive map and pick-up schedule are available on the City’s website.
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If you believe your bags/containers were missed, email: springfieldyw@lakeareadisposal.com
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Now Accepting Applications for the Springfield Police Department Cadet Program!
Are you currently enrolled at Lincoln Land Community College? Take the first step toward a rewarding career in law enforcement by applying for the Springfield Police Department’s Cadet Program—a comprehensive and unique training opportunity designed just for you.
Selected Cadets will gain invaluable, paid work experience across our department’s divisions, preparing you with the skills and education needed to excel in law enforcement. Plus, this amazing scholarship opportunity for our cadets will help them further their education while pursuing their career goals!
- Hands-on experience across all divisions
- Develop into a highly qualified law enforcement professional
- Build the foundation for a successful future
- Scholarship opportunities for selected cadets
Applications are now open at: https://bit.ly/47NHZfX.
Apply today and start your journey with the Springfield Police Department!
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Autumn is Here! Embrace the Season of Fun and Thrills!
Chill air is coming, and the days getting shorter means Autumn is here. Whether you are looking to experience the beautiful colors of Fall, seeking some scary Halloween thrills, or something in between...Springfield has you covered with so many fun events!
If you are looking for Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes, Haunted Houses, Hayrides, etc., check out our Pumpkin Patches & Haunts blog for a listing of attractions for a fun Fall experience.
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The following work will begin or continue the week of October 21 by the City of Springfield's crews and contractors: | |
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Asphalt Paving
- W Lake Shore Dr (Toronto-Shepherd)
Concrete Patching
- Hollis Dr (W White Oaks-Robbins)
- Huntleigh Rd (Bellerive-Golf)
- Maryknoll Pl
- Washington St (Bradfordton-Chatham)
- Chicory Dr, Sage Ln
- 16th St (S Grand-Cook)
Ditching/Culverts
- 1705 E Keys Av
- 2748 Fox Bridge Rd
- 29th & Ridge
- 1922 N 9th St
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Parkway Repairs
SIDEWALK REPAIRS
- 1332 W Edwards St
- 1324 E Mason St
- 2623 S 11th St
- 920 N Macarthur Blvd
- 1904 S Douglas Av
- 3340 Moorgate Dr
- 1131 S 13th St
- 1700 W Jefferson St
- 1715 E Cass St
- 2520 E Clear Lake Av
- 1729 & 2113 S Glenwood Av
- 2305 W Monroe St
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ONGOING CLOSURES
ADAMS STREET FROM 4TH TO 5TH
Closed indefinitely as damage is assessed
STANFORD AVENUE CLOSURE
Stanford Avenue, between 11th Street and Fox Bridge Road, closed for major work, including constructing the new road with curb and gutter, storm sewer, sidewalks on the south side, and multi-use trail on the north side-anticipated completion by the fall of 2024.
SOUTH 6TH ST RESURFACING (STANFORD-MYRTLE)
Sidewalk repairs to include milling and resurfacing of pavement. Intermittent closures through December 2024
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The City of Springfield
is Hiring!
Serve your community while growing your career with a job at the City of Springfield! Our employment website provides a convenient electronic method for submitting applications and exploring current employment opportunities.
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Join Us for the Mayor's Veterans Reception
Join us for the Mayor's Veterans Reception on Thursday, November 7, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at American Legion Post 809, 1800 E. Capitol Ave.
This special Veterans Day program is dedicated to honoring the men and women who have selflessly served our nation. Please join us as we recognize their sacrifices, celebrate their courage, and express our gratitude.
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Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Event
October 19
8:00 am-3:00 pm
Chamberlain Park
319 Mc Creery Ave
Get rid of your household hazardous waste safely! Residents MUST register online in advance for a drop-off time and to receive a voucher. Upon arrival, residents must show their voucher on their mobile device or have a printed copy of the voucher available. Registration will close on Thursday, October 17, 2024. Open to all Illinois residents!
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The Springfield Police Department Invites You to Join us for our annual Halloween Safety Event! | |
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Join us on October 28th from 5:00-7:00 PM for our annual Halloween Safety Event! The Springfield Police Department, along with other City Departments, is excited to continue this FUN community tradition.
Trick-or-Treat Stations, Games, Rescue & City Vehicles & more!
More information coming soon!
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The Library Corner!
Keeping you informed and involved in upcoming events, workshops, and resources at the Lincoln Library
The Library Corner serves as your one-stop destination for discovering all the exciting happenings at the Lincoln Library. This week's event
highlight is:
"We've Always Been Here": A Virtual Tour of Springfield's LGBTQ+ History
If you weren't able to attend our June "Walk with Pride" events but still wanted to learn about Springfield's LGBTQ+ history, we've got some good news for you! You can still come and learn about this little-known history without 2.5 miles of walking! Join us in the library's Carnegie Room North, and we'll take you on a journey back in time through Springfield's history!
From the 2013 March on the Capitol for Marriage Equality to the downtown Levee of the 1970s, back all the way to artist Ethel Mars in 1873, come celebrate our centuries of progress!
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No City Council Meeting on October 22
As October is a five-Tuesday month, the City Council will not convene on Tuesday, October 22nd. Instead, the Council will reconvene for the Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday, October 29th.
We look forward to resuming discussions and continuing our work for the Springfield community on the 29th. Thank you for your attention and engagement!
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