A chocolate factory, a coffee shop, a hardware store, a variety of restaurants and the historic Jefferson Avenue Footbridge are just a few of the things that can be found along Commercial Street. That variety is one reason the Missouri Chapter of the American Planning Association included C-Street on its 2018 list of four great places in Missouri.
“We just have so much to offer in such a small space,” Mary Collette said. Collette is the president of the Commercial Club. “It’s not like a big box store or a mall or anything like that.”
The Great Places in Missouri Program began in 2014 and was modeled after the American Planning Association’s Great Places in America program. The program recognizes places in the state “that enrich communities, facilitate economic growth, and inspire residents and visitors alike.”
Commercial Street is home to other businesses such as hair salons, furniture stores and a tattoo parlor. It’s also a popular place to host events such as weddings.
“You can park fairly close to where you want to go, and even if you have to walk, the walk is very pleasant because there’s always a lot to see,” Collette said.
Collette said Commercial Street is a unique place in Springfield because of its small town atmosphere vibe. According to Collette, the historic district has become a hidden gem in the city because it reminds people of a time when everything wasn’t so fast paced.
“There’s just a lot to be excited about and a lot to come and experience,” Collette said. “I think (Commercial Street) is a welcome place, it’s a very warm environment.”
APA Missouri will hold a ceremony recognizing the 2018 Great Places in Missouri recipients in the State Capitol Rotunda in Jefferson City on Jan. 31 at 11 a.m.
