We're happy to announce an exciting new project supporting arts and culture in our community. Work recently began on a "Welcome to Springfield" mural at 1101 N. Main Street (aka Main Space) which will serve as a bold visual key to visitors and be an iconic symbol of Springfield's support for the arts.

The mural is being installed by Grant Thornton, a Georgia-based artist, and was commissioned by SPAR with funds generated through its annual Jacksonville PorchFest. PorchFest is a free event showcasing local and regional musicians, visual artists and the beautiful architecture of Historic Springfield. The third annual Jacksonville PorchFest is Saturday, November 5th, 2016.

We're excited to partner with Florida State College of Jacksonville (FSCJ) on a photographic and historical study of the Springfield Historic District! 

Earlier this year, SPAR Council was awarded a grant to employ additional staff through the Americorps program. We're pleased to introduce Kevin O' Halloran as that new staff member, our Community Engagement Coordinator.

Click the link below to learn more about Kevin and what he'll be involved with in our community. Say "hello" if you see him around!

We're looking individuals passionate about improving and preserving the Springfield Historic District, and who would like to serve the community by offering their time or talent.

SPAR Council is now accepting applications to serve on the Board of Directors. This is a leadership position within the community, and your time and resources will be valued. Contact us if you are interested in serving on the Board and we'll send you more information. All inquiries due by September 15th. Per our organization's by-laws, new Board member applicants will be voted on by SPAR membership at the Fall community meeting.

Or, perhaps you would be more interested participating in a SPAR Committee. There are opportunities to serve on Committees related to finance, membership, special events, fund development, communications, public safety and other functions within the organization and community. If you're interested, let us know and we'll send you more information. Committee members can be considered year-round.

We'e excited to announce that SPAR Council has been awarded a grant to hire an AmeriCorps member. Click here for the full job description and contact information to apply.

The City of Jacksonville and the Jacksonville's Sheriffs Office have teamed up to address blight in the urban core neighborhoods of Jacksonville, including the greater Springfield area. JSO's Bight Abatement Team (BAT) is now coordinating with COJ's CARE system to remedy blight issues and conditions, giving residents of the urban core faster response times to reported problems.

For those not familiar, the CARE system is the City's program to eliminate blight. The CARE system can be accessed via online, telephone (904.630.CITY) or email. It can also be accessed via smart phone app, as well. 

So what kind of things can be reported as blight?

SPAR Council is excited to announce that banners celebrating the Historic Springfield community will be appearing on street lamps along Eighth and Main Streets this week.

The revised plans for the Springfield Lofts project by GNP Development at 1341 Pearl Street. 

Amended items include: 

1.       Modified the primary alley widths that will be used for circulation to 18 feet wide, per discussion with COJ Planning Department. 

2.       Enlarged the backing up space on the east side of the property to 24 feet as requested. 

3.       Removed carriage house units, and applied density to building F.

4.       Increased overall parking to 86 spaces, approximately.  Some may need to be removed during engineering.  Kept original text that states 1 space per unit required. 

5.       Bike parking is labeled east of building D, and referenced that parking will be met in PUD text.

Details below...

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) under an emergency closure intends to replace the Main Street Culvert over Hogans Creek. This segment of Main Street, near the intersection of Orange Street, has been closed since May 2016.