Springfield Standard

Springfield City Council has given the green light to the final plans and specifications for phase one of the Renew Jordan Creek project. At a special meeting on December 3, the council awarded Branco Enterprises, Inc. the construction contract with a Guaranteed Maximum Price set at $26.8 million.

In addition to approving the construction contract, the council passed an ordinance authorizing up to $6.5 million in Special Obligation Bonds. This funding will leverage a State of Missouri package that includes a $3.5 million federal Affordability and Water Quality Incentive Grant along with State Revolving Fund loans.

The Renew Jordan Creek initiative aims to restore Jordan Creek as it flows through downtown Springfield. The first phase focuses on two blocks within Jordan Valley Park, bordered by Boonville Avenue, Water Street, Main Avenue, and Mill Street.

Project goals include flood reduction, water quality improvements, pedestrian enhancements, sustainable greenspaces integration, comfort and safety upgrades, and developing a sense of place. Future phases may involve Founders Park and city property at 404 N. Jefferson Ave.

Funding for this phase will come from local sources like the City’s Level Property Tax and various sales taxes combined with external grants from agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Natural Resources.

“Awarding the contract to Branco and securing our financing will now allow us to proceed to construction after many years of community-directed design and funding development,” said Public Works Project Manager Kirkland Preston. He noted that work could begin as early as mid-December once paperwork is finalized.

Construction is expected to last about two years with completion anticipated in late 2026. Traffic access around businesses and residences will be maintained though some routes may be temporarily altered.

Major road closures are planned during different phases: Water Street from mid-December 2024 through March 2025; Campbell Avenue starting early 2025 through early 2026; Boonville Avenue beginning early 2026 through late 2026.

For more details on construction impacts or updates visit renewjordancreek.com/construction.