Commission makes recommendations for Jordan Valley

The report, “A Vision for Jordan Valley,” is the culmination of a public comment process in which citizens expressed their opinions about three areas of future development: the Quarry at National Avenue and East Trafficway; the East Meadows, north of Jordan Valley Park; and the West Meadows, west of Park Central Square. The report incorporates public opinions, an ongoing federal railroad reconfiguration and Jordan Creek studies.

General recommendations in the report include a veterans’ memorial, locations for public art, incorporating sustainable and green development concepts, a library facility and emphasizing Historic Route 66.

The Quarry

The commission suggests development in the Quarry area should occur in phases.

In Phase I, recommendations include a Gateway Plaza at the corner of National Avenue and Trafficway, a carousel, plazas for Springfield’s sister cities, open space, playfields, a parking lot and preservation of the Limestone Bluff.

Phase II calls for a water feature, restaurant, boat dock with boat rentals and residential condominiums.

East Meadows

The commission recommends development in East Meadows should relate to the existing Jordan Valley Park, planned projects nearby and the Drury University and Ozarks Technical Community College campuses.

Suggestions include a greenway extension to both schools, an upgrade of Phelps Street, bringing Jordan Creek above ground with trails, extended open space into the Commercial Metals property with an amphitheater setting, preservation of Rock Bluff, parking and residential development.

West Meadows

Noting that development West Meadows is contingent upon an agreement with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, the commission acknowledges that the project could be undertaken in phases.

Recommendations for Phase I include a farmers’ market off of Main Avenue, bringing Jordan Creek out of its ditch, a parks maintenance facility or office, greenways, connections to the West Central neighborhood, a picnic area, a rail line and a public facility, such as a library or museum.

Phase II calls for a water feature, a lake and constructed wetlands, depending on results of an ongoing study by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Review

The public is invited to view the report at www.springfieldmogov.org/jvp. Comments may be e-mailed to jordanvalley@ci.springfield.mo.us.

See SBJ’s April 16 issue for more city news.