Yesterday, State Rep. Mike Coffey sat down with Dave Dahl from Capitol City Now and discussed Coffey’s vision and plans to bring downtown Springfield back- to- life.
Dave- On Wednesday night, the house passed the so-called Bears bill, but what we’re told it really is statewide. The bill is an economic development tool kit and there’s something in it for Springfield, assuming it passes as is. What is in it for Springfield?
Mike- It’s called a “Mega Project” bill, but what it is going to do is help expand the BOS Convention Center and create a new flagship hotel right across from the existing Convention Center, so it’s a big win for the City of Springfield. That’s why I voted for it. So when people are talking about the Bears bill, I’m talking about the Springfield bill.
Dave- The medical district is being redone in some way? Also part of the bill?
Mike- Yes, it’s several things put together in the making projects build and it really helps Springfield. I think when you look at downtown Springfield, the kind of condition that it’s in, I think there’s support all across the state. This is the second home for many of the legislators.
It’s my only home, the only home I’m ever going to have, and so the these bills have a lot in there for Springfield, and so if you live in the city of Springfield, or you’re in the 95th District, this is a big. This is a big project for us.
There’s a middle Illinois Medical District, and now apparently the boundaries are going to be different, and the bill would repeal the district, but then create a new yet similar District, so it’s basically expanding the district. You got to remember the two major employers in this town are the hospitals, and so we want that Medical District to grow.
Dave- Why do we need a state law to rebuild Springfield?
Mike- Well, because it gives you the tools you need for buying capability and government to get these things financed and across the finish line, especially a place like Springfield, Illinois. I’m very thankful that the governor’s office, quite honestly, cares enough about Springfield and to make this happen for us, because without the governor’s support and his office support.
You know, this is really a unique situation. Springfield’s one of the few towns that their elected officials work together despite party lines and to get a project for our town to really make something happen. I think it’s something to be very proud of.