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Hello neighbors,
Thanks to our residents, staff and City Council, we have accomplished so much in 2025, and I would like to take a moment to recognize the incredible progress our community has made together. This year has been one of growth, collaboration and meaningful investment in the future of Blue Springs.
The City of Blue Springs’ Strategic Plan is the culmination of a ten-month process, working collaboratively with the City Council, City staff, community leaders and residents to create a framework to help guide the City’s decisions, investments and priorities for the next five years. The City's Strategic Plan is a roadmap for how City leadership can work together, stay aligned and deliver results that matter to the people of Blue Springs. The City of Blue Springs is growing and evolving and with that growth comes the need for a clear and intentional strategy to guide the future.
The adoption and implementation of the 2024 Downtown Masterplan has given the City renewed energy with its approach to the Downtown Revitalization. Blue Springs voters had approved a $40 million bond in August of 2024 for various improvements throughout the City, which included $5 million for Downtown Master Plan Capital improvements.
Through the support of our residents and the 2024 Bond Project, we began the Neighborhood Street Preservation Program this past spring, including street overlays and curb repairs across the community.
We completed the work of the Charter Review Commission, whose recommendations were brought to voters in April. I am proud to report that all five Charter amendments were approved, ensuring our governing framework remains transparent, modern and responsive.
Blue Springs Parks & Recreation had an outstanding year, earning the Missouri Parks and Recreation Association’s Large Class 1 Agency of the Year—an honor given to the top agencies serving populations over 50,000.
In May, we unveiled new ballfields at Hidden Valley Sports Complex, featuring turf infields and upgraded backstops. Our community also came together for the biannual Green Up the Blue, collecting trash throughout the City—another example of the pride our residents take in Blue Springs.
In September, we celebrated a major milestone as the Blue Springs Fieldhouse marked its 10-year anniversary with open houses and member appreciation events. Parks & Recreation is also preparing its next five-year Master Plan to continue delivering top-quality recreation experiences.
Our Police Department made significant strides in strengthening public safety and expanding community services. This year, Blue Springs earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation, recognizing communities that show exceptional commitment to crime reduction, officer support and strong community partnerships.
In partnership with several local organizations, we installed a live-streaming eagle nest camera, giving residents a unique glimpse into local wildlife and furthering our connection to nature and conservation.
The coming year promises even more progress. Major initiatives already underway or set to begin include:
- Launching our new City website this spring
- $15 million in Neighborhood Street Program reconstruction
- Improvements to Wyatt Road, Duncan Road turn lanes and the 12th Street extension
- Renovation and expansion of the Public Works Operations Building
- Sni-A-Bar Wastewater Treatment upgrades
- South Outer Road Watermain replacement
- Expanded Red, White & Blue Springs and North Pole Trail of Lights events
- Beginning construction on Southwest Park in late 2026 or early 2027
As we celebrate these accomplishments and look ahead to the work still to come, I want to thank each of you for the trust you place in our City team. Blue Springs continues to grow, evolve and lead because of your engagement, support and belief in the future of this community.
I am honored to serve as your Mayor, and I look forward to all that we will achieve together.
Chris Lievsay
Mayor, Blue Springs, Mo.
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