Springfield’s Economic Future: SSGA’s Bold Vision for Growth
By Bill Stokes
Springfield and Sangamon County are experiencing a surge in economic development, thanks in large part to the efforts of the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance (SSGA). In a recent annual report, SSGA President and CEO Ryan McCrady outlined the organization’s successes and provided insight into the economic trajectory of the region.
Financial Stability Fuels Progress
SSGA remains in a strong financial position, according to McCrady. While the organization has strategically invested in community projects, its leadership remains committed to replenishing reserves and ensuring long-term financial stability.
“Maintaining a diverse funding base is crucial,” McCrady emphasized, explaining that having multiple revenue streams protects the organization from economic fluctuations. Private businesses, public entities, and investors all play a role in keeping the momentum going. You can find a list of their supporters on their website: https://www.thriveinspi.org/
Strategic Goals for Economic Growth
SSGA operates with a clear mission to drive economic expansion, guided by four key objectives:
- Job Creation – Bringing new employment opportunities to Springfield and Sangamon County.
- Population Growth – Attracting new residents while retaining current ones.
- Wage Increases – Supporting wage growth beyond inflation rates.
- Diversified Funding – Expanding financial sources to sustain economic initiatives.
Supporting Local Business
A major focus of SSGA is its business retention and expansion (BRE) program, which facilitates ongoing engagement with local companies. Through more than 100 annual visits, SSGA representatives connect with business owners to address concerns and offer support.
“Our role is to be a resource,” McCrady explained. “We want to make it as easy as possible for businesses to navigate challenges and grow.”
One example of this support is SSGA’s work with the I-55 Stables and Arena, a family-owned equestrian facility near Glenarm. The owners sought to expand their operations but faced challenges navigating zoning requirements and securing the necessary permits. SSGA stepped in to facilitate discussions with local government agencies, ensuring a smooth approval process. As a result, the facility is now set to open with expanded services, attracting visitors and boosting the region’s agritourism sector.
National Outreach Yields Results
SSGA has significantly increased Springfield’s visibility among site selection consultants—experts who help corporations choose locations for new facilities. By attending national conferences, the organization has successfully elevated Springfield’s profile in the economic development community.
“When we first started, people didn’t know where Springfield, Illinois, was,” McCrady said. “Now, they recognize us by name and actively reach out with opportunities.”
This approach has contributed to major business investments in 2024, including new facilities for Frito Lay and Amazon, which will bring more than 250 jobs to the area.
Transformational Development Projects
Springfield and Sangamon County are seeing significant infrastructure investments that will shape the local economy for years to come:
- Double Black Diamond Solar Development – The largest solar project east of the Mississippi, spanning 4,200 acres with an $800 million investment.
- SCHEELS Sports Complex – A state-of-the-art facility designed to attract large-scale youth tournaments, set to open fully by early 2026.
- Lincoln Land Energy Center – A $1.5 billion natural gas-fired power plant scheduled to break ground in mid-2025, creating hundreds of jobs. Located just south of Pawnee, Illinois, the plant is expected to provide a significant boost to the regional energy grid, ensuring reliable power generation for both industrial and residential needs. Developed by Kendall Energy, the facility will utilize state-of-the-art technology to maximize efficiency and reduce emissions, reinforcing the county’s commitment to energy diversification.
- Pillsbury Mills Redevelopment – A long-awaited environmental cleanup that will prepare the site for future investment.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward to 2025, McCrady projected continued economic expansion. The organization plans to increase business retention efforts, expand its national outreach, and capitalize on growing interest in data centers, which he predicts will soon make their way to Springfield.
“These developments are game-changers,” McCrady stated. “Springfield has the potential for extraordinary growth, and we’re only just beginning.”
With a strong foundation, ambitious plans, and growing investor interest, SSGA is steering Springfield and Sangamon County toward a prosperous future. The coming year promises to be one of the most impactful yet for the region’s economic landscape.
