Historic home rehabilitation recognized by West Central Neighborhood Alliance

The West Central Neighborhood Alliance on Nov. 25 presented its inaugural Investor & Developer Award to two honorees.

The award recipients are Historic Walnut Street Development LLC, owned by Tom and Nancy Dornan, and real estate agent Scott Sturm, according to a news release. The recognition honors Historic Walnut Street Development and Sturm for restoring historic homes in the West Central neighborhood.

“Our neighborhood’s strength comes from people who care deeply about preserving its character,” said Duane Keys, president of the West Central Neighborhood Alliance, in the release. “Historic Walnut Street Development and Scott Sturm represent what responsible ownership and true community reinvestment look like.”

The release indicates Historic Walnut Street Development has led historic home rehabilitation in West Central for decades.

"Through steady investment and skilled craftsmanship, the group has restored numerous century-old homes that had been divided into small rental units, returning them to their original character and grandeur," officials said in the release. "From Craftsman foursquares to Victorian cottages along Walnut Street and throughout the neighborhood, their work has brought beauty, stability and pride back to the area while helping convert rental properties into long-term, owner-occupied homes."

Sturm, a real estate agent with AMax Real Estate, was recognized for his work restoring two homes in the neighborhood.

"His thoughtful restoration of two historic homes preserved original details like woodwork and hardware while adding modern amenities that make the homes both comfortable and true to their era," officials said in the release. "His approach to responsible rehabilitation and careful tenancy helped both houses transition from rentals to owner-occupied residences, further strengthening the neighborhood."

The West Central Neighborhood Alliance intends to present the West Central Investor & Developer Award annually moving forward.

The West Central Neighborhood Alliance created the award, in part, due to the city's newly established rental inspection pilot program, according to the announcement. Alliance officials say "many landlords and developers already do things the right way, investing in their properties and helping improve the quality of life for everyone."

Springfield City Council this month approved a rental license and inspection pilot program for some 1,500 units in the West Central Neighborhood Service District, according to past reporting. The legislation calls for enforcement to commence March 23, 2026.