Why Building a Vibrant Community Is Greater Springfield's Most Critical Move Yet

When communities thrive, it's never by accident. It results from thoughtful planning, bold investments, and a unified vision. In Greater Springfield, we've reached a pivotal moment that will shape our region's future for generations. The third initiative in the EXPAND 2029 capital campaign, Build a Vibrant Community, confronts the most urgent and defining challenge: creating a place where people want to live, work, and belong.

Our region risks stagnation without appropriate housing options, a welcoming culture, and an energetic downtown. But with a focused strategy and community-wide support, we can unlock Clark County's full potential. 

The Foundation: Housing for a Stabilizing Population

One truth underpins it all: if people can't find homes, they won't stay or come.

That's why Build a Vibrant Community begins with supporting housing development. Whether it's new builds or in-fill projects, Springfield needs to increase its inventory to match the needs of a growing workforce and their families. Every new home built is a commitment to growth, a signal that Greater Springfield is ready to welcome its next chapter.

By tracking new housing starts and reporting progress annually, the campaign ensures transparency and accountability because increasing housing options isn't just part of the solution; it is the solution.

The Welcome Starts Now: "Welcome to Springfield" Program

Attracting new business leaders, executives, and families is only half the battle. Helping them feel at home is what truly builds community.

The "Welcome to Springfield" program is designed to do just that, partnering with local realtors and community stakeholders to ease the transition for newcomers. This program will provide practical support, personal connections, and local insight within the first year to ensure new residents feel grounded, supported, and genuinely welcomed.

When people feel connected, they stay and invest, and the whole community rises.

More Than a Zip Code: Revitalizing Downtown and Enhancing Quality of Life

From vibrant nightlife and diverse dining to public health resources and recreation, Greater Springfield's amenities must reflect the lifestyle today's workforce expects. That's why this initiative also prioritizes downtown revitalization and quality-of-life enhancements. We're talking about transforming the "Heart of the Community" into a destination where families gather, entrepreneurs launch bold ideas, and young professionals put down roots.

This initiative is about giving people reasons to choose Springfield—and stay for the long haul.

Connecting Employers and Community: Engagement that Drives Retention

Workplace satisfaction increasingly depends on community connection. That's why this initiative includes two annual employer engagement events designed to highlight the region's assets. These events serve a dual purpose: they help employers retain top talent by strengthening employees' ties to the community and reinforcing Springfield's story as a vibrant, welcoming place to live and work.

When talent knows what's happening beyond the workplace, they're more likely to envision a future here. These touchpoints turn jobs into careers and employees into neighbors.

A Strategic Investment in Springfield's Soul

At an annual investment of $105,000, or $525,000 over five years, working toward building a vibrant community is a promise.

A promise that Greater Springfield will be a top business destination. A place to belong. And it will be your community.