What is the Center City?

Simply put, Center City is the downtown. This crucial neighborhood unites the city and serves as an indicator of our community's health. It is bounded on the north by Buck Creek, by Water Street on the east, Pleasant Avenue on the south, and Yellow Springs Street on the west.

What is the Center City Association?

The Center City Association is the non-profit organization, founded by concerned citizens, to lead the downtown renewal. Our founders knew something had been lost over the years, yet were certain that a downtown renaissance was surely possible with commitment and action. It's happening.

We have a two-person paid staff, a board of thirteen dynamic leaders and more than 50 active citizens who are working on committees and task forces doing the hard work of carefully planning each stage of the renewal.

What is the goal of the Center City Association?

This is an exciting and dynamic time for Springfield. There are many successes to build upon and the promise of even more. There is a new spirit of cooperation among the City, the County, the Townships and the private sector. New schools, major additions to an already stellar parks system, new bike trails, development of a downtown regional medical campus and other developments are underway.

What do we want to happen in Center City?

The Center City should be the city's jewel. It will be a place where there are good-paying jobs, a vibrant nightlife rich with culture, dining and entertainment options as well as stylish townhomes and loft apartments. Across the country downtowns are being renewed to serve 21st century communities. Springfield deserves an amazing downtown and the Center City Association aims to deliver.

Where do we see downtown Springfield - the Center City - in 5 years?

• Companies tired of asphalt isolation on the fringe will find new homes in Center City.
• Major public facilities will redevelop brownfield sites in the heart of the city.
• A diligent and focused effort to embrace the Technology Age will result in better paying jobs that will keep more of our best and brightest in Springfield and draw new community leaders as well.
• Districts of energy and opportunity will result in clusters of cultural amenities, restaurants, nightclubs and entertainment.
• Niche stores and appropriate national chains will find a ready market in the midst of a beautified downtown that draws on our architectural assets.
• There will be a resurgence in attitude and community pride.

What do downtown and the Center City Association have to build on?

The Center City has many businesses already located in the downtown - well over 200 - many of which are very eager to contribute to the revitalization of our Center City. There are also many citizens and countless other organization who are participating in the process of making our downtown vibrant once more.

In recent years there have been some terrific improvements including the YMCA, the Library, the Performing Arts Center, the Heritage Center, The Courtyard by Marriott and a steadily increasing occupancy rate. The gorgeous architectural assets that remain can be restored and utilized as the tremendous resources they are.

Is there some way people in the community can get involved in downtown revitalization?

Yes.  Members of the community can either contribute to the Center City Association by making a donation through our website, or contact us to see how you can get involved with this exciting endeavor.

Where is the Center City Association located?

The offices of the Center City Association are located in the "Old Columbia Gas Building" at 105 W. High St., Suite 202, Springfield, OH 45502.

How does the Center City Association plan to revitalize the downtown?

The Center City Association has joined forces with a team of specialized architects and urban developers/planner who put together a preliminary plan to revitalize downtown. See the R/UDAT page for full details. Basically, we will renew downtown by 1) Creating an Inviting Environment, 2) Retaining and Recruiting Business, 3) Develop Downtown Living, and 4) Make Center City the place of first choice for public facilities and amenities.

Who is involved in the Center City Association?

The Center City Association is composed of a full-time staff, a Board of Directors, and a vast list of members.

Do I have to live or work in the downtown area to help?

No, anyone can help the Center City Association. We are open to ideas from people anywhere. Membership is open to all concerned citizens with an interest in supporting the development of downtown Springfield, Ohio.

How can I contribute to the Center City Association?

You can contribute to the Center City Association simply by submitting your contribution on our website or by mailing your contribution to P.O. Box 1291, Springfield, Ohio, 45501.

Does the Center City Association profit from this redevelopment?

Yes and no. The Center City Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to revitalizing the Center City of Springfield. On the other hand, everyone will profit from this venture because our efforts to revitalize the Center City will promote economic development and growth in the heart of our city.

Who do I need to contact if I am interested in relocating my business downtown?

You may contact the Staff of the Center City Association.
Telephone: 937-325-0047
Fax: 937-325-0735
E-mail: bmonaghan@center-city.org

How long will the Center City Association's plan to revitalize the downtown take to implement?

Downtown revitalization can be a complicated endeavor that is an ongoing effort. In any event, downtown revitalization is an ongoing process: it's a journey, not a destination.

Is the Center City Association open to community ideas and help?

Of course! One of the main things that will make this venture successful is ideas. The Center City Association is always open to input from anyone. Give us a call!

What are the committees supposed to do?

Committees provide the people from diverse backgrounds who help develop sound, actionable plans that make sense for Springfield. They do the hard work of planning and then lead the exciting implementation phase as well. Our four committees are based on the national model established by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. They are: Design, Economic Development, Organization and Funding, and Promotion. Learn more about the committees.

What is the Center City Association going to do with the older and/or abandoned buildings in the center city?

A key element in any downtown revitalization plan is utilizing the incredible assets that older structures are. Springfield is fortunate to have so many significant architectural structures still in place. However, the challenge is affordably renovating these older buildings and returning them to profitable use.

The Center City Association is following the lead of organizations around Ohio and the nation that have utilized special incentives and financing tools to restore older buildings. Historic tax credits, historic easements, utilization of the Alternative Building Code, Special Improvement Districts and Tax Increment Financing are among the tactics that can make renovation a reality.