The Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance (SSGA) is highlighting a banner year of growth, investment, and collaboration across Springfield and Sangamon County. Dedicated to driving economic development and strengthening regional partnerships, SSGA has generated more than $2.25 billion in economic growth for the community since its founding in 2018.
“2025 was an exciting year for Springfield and Sangamon County, with major projects and new investments really building momentum for our region,” said Ryan McCrady, CEO and President of SSGA. “From major employers and new businesses expanding their footprint to long-awaited redevelopment efforts moving forward, we’re seeing progress that strengthens our economy now and sets us up for continued long-term growth. The partnerships we’ve built over the past eight years are paying off, and we’re excited about the opportunities ahead.”
Some of the major highlights for 2025 include the completion and inflation of the Springfield Clinic Dome at SCHEELS Sports Park at Legacy Pointe, the largest air-supported sports dome in the world, which is expected to bring 250,000 new visitors and generate nearly $25 million in revenue for the community. Additionally, REEL USA Corp announced plans to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Springfield, expanding Sangamon County’s manufacturing footprint. This new international investment reinforces the community’s competitive advantages and commitment to attracting high-quality manufacturing and skilled workforce opportunities.
Several other SSGA-supported projects include the continued demolition progress at the former Pillsbury Mills site and the announcement of CyrusOne’s data center in Sangamon County and a 20-year Community Benefit Agreement for the Double Black Diamond solar project with Swift Current Energy. Additional milestones include American Airlines modifying to more desirable Chicago flight schedules at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport and Amazon opening a new 71,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution facility.
“Each of these projects represents meaningful progress for our region and long-term opportunities for both our residents and local businesses,” McCrady said. “We’re continuing to see momentum across Springfield and Sangamon County, and these achievements are a strong reflection of years of hard work and collaboration coming to fruition, and they position our community for even greater growth in the future.”
Additionally, SSGA sponsored 9 community events, engaged in 40 project site searches, and conducted more than 125 business retention and expansion visits.
McCrady also adds that continued job growth and career opportunities play a big role in strengthening local economies. They help keep people in the community, attract new investment, and build a strong foundation for long-term success. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES), Springfield added roughly 1,900 nonfarm jobs since July 2024, its 21st consecutive month of year-over-year gains, while maintaining a below-average 4.2% unemployment rate, a trend McCrady says reflects steady, resilient economic growth for the region.
The public is invited to attend SSGA’s annual meeting to learn more about the plans for 2026 on Tuesday, January 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Memorial Learning Center located at 228 W. Miller Street. For additional details or to register for the event, visit here.