26-07-2025
‘It could happen': Homelessness concerns for downtown project
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — With the growing number of Springfield businesses speaking out about downtown homelessness, discussion has shifted to an ongoing project — the Renew Jordan Creek Project.
Phase one of the Renew Jordan Creek project is currently underway, but already people are concerned if the completed project will draw more homelessness into the area.
'Unless the city comes up with a plan to address it, then it could happen,' said Chris Stuart, co-owner of 1984 Arcade.
Stuart said it sometimes feels dangerous to be around Park Central Square at nighttime because of the homelessness issue and 'unpredictable behavior.'
James Logan, the owner of Jamiesshoess, said he believes it could draw in homelessness, but is uncertain to what extent. Despite this, he is still excited for the completion of the project.
'I think it's going to help a lot,' Logan told Ozarks First. 'To have a river going through — the AI (artificial intelligence) pictures look insane.'
Jennifer Hyde, owner of Fresh Gallery, said she's not sure homelessness will be an issue.
'Of course, there's concerns,' she said. 'I don't see, as far as a design aspect, that it will be that feasible for people to camp out, but I would hate to lose an exciting new addition to down like this park to the homelessness situation.'
Littering is her biggest concern, and she said hopefully there's a strategic plan for capturing littering and keeping the area clean so that it 'can be a beautiful feature of our downtown.'
A spokesman with the City of Springfield told Ozarks First they will know more about how to prevent issues of homelessness as the project progresses.
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