Crystal Quade on the Future of Downtown Springfield

Crystal Quade, Downtown Springfield Association's new executive director, shares her vision for a vibrant, walkable downtown and the economic opportunities ahead.

What's one misconception about downtown Springfield?

"Downtown has ebbed and flowed over my lifetime in terms of investment and activity. We have tremendous opportunity, but there is an obvious need for investment and focus from the entire community to make sure that downtown continues to be the lifeblood of our city."

What types of businesses are you actively trying to attract?

"Retail is a great thing that we need more of. I know in the digital age, having brick and mortars is tough, but I know that for the citizens of Springfield, having a wonderful walkable downtown is a priority. Of course, we love being able to champion our amazing restaurants, and I think the arts are so huge for downtown, and I want to continue to expand on that."

What part of this job energizes you most?

"I love downtown. I have represented downtown in the legislature for the last eight years, I've lived and worked in the area for my whole adult life. What really energizes me about the job, beyond just that I care about it, is that we really do have a tremendous opportunity right now. We have a lot of folks who really want to see Springfield be successful, and those folks are talking and we're collaborating. This job is really about putting those puzzle pieces together to make sure that we're delivering a downtown that is vibrant, that is safe, that is fun and a place where families and folks want to go to when they're thinking about where they want to spend their money and time. It's a big challenge and a big opportunity all at once."