Commercial Street was created by the Frisco Railroad in the 1800's. It is a six-block, lineal, National Register Historic District that once served as the commercial center for North Springfield, MO.
A few years ago, several business owners banded together in an effort to revitalize Commercial Street. They formed the Commercial Club of Springfield, and partnered with the Urban Districts Alliance, and created the Commercial Street Historic District Strategy for Success, which was adopted by the Springfield City Council on March 6, 2006. Their strategy included a vision of mixed use for Commercial Street, comprising of:
Residential• Restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs (some hosting live music)
• Coffee shops (some hosting live music)
• Community radio station specializing in local music
• Recording studios
• Music equipment stores
• Recorded music stores
• Art and craft galleries
• Antique shops
• Gift shops
• Other retail
• Farmers market
• Public open space
• Festivals and events
Called C-Street by locals, Commercial Street is a tightly-knit community of trendsetters, artists, and environmentalists all working together to rebuild their vibrant neighborhood. C-Street has transformed from a railroad boomtown into a vibrant arts, entertainment and shopping destination. Check out all C-Street has to offer with the seasonal farmer’s market, chocolate factory, city’s oldest tavern, massage/day spa school, photo studios, art/antique/flea galleries, vintage shopping, environmental products, leaded glass, coffee shop and restaurants.
Click here for a Directory of C-Street Businesses.
Commercial Street has become a desirable place to live. Twenty-nine (29) lofts now exist with 32 under construction or in the serious planning stages. This phenomenon has driven the revitalization that is underway. Many of these lofts were renovated with historic preservation of the original character in mind. Lofts lease quickly on Commercial Street, and oftentimes there is a waiting list. I have found a couple of lofts available now ranging from $595-845 per month in rent. You can find information for 220 Commercial Street and 200 Commercial Street lofts here.
There are numerous funding and financial assistance programs available for business owners and developers, including historic tax credits, a CID and TIF. At itsalldowntown.com, you will find a WEALTH of information regarding the various alliances, events and benefits available, including:
- Financial Assistance.pdf (Size 103 KB)
- Site Assistance.pdf (Size 79.8 KB)
- Zoning.pdf (Size 106.2 KB)
- Utilities.pdf (Size 99.5 KB)
- Workforce Development.pdf (Size 69.9 KB)
- Community Resources.pdf (Size 71.2 KB)
- Center City Demographics.pdf (Size 75.2 KB)
- Business Licenses.pdf (Size 71.1 KB)
- Historic Tax Credits.pdf (Size 232.2 KB)
- Who is the UDA.pdf (Size 106.9 KB)
So if you're considering starting a business in Springfield, MO, consider Commercial Street in downtown Springfield, and become part of the exciting movement in progress.
Here are a few properties to get you started!
For more information regarding the properties below, please call Lina Robertson, RE/MAX Solutions, at (417) 844-7265, or Randy Brown, RE/MAX House of Brokers, at (417) 887-5333, or click on the property links below.
400 E. Commercial Street, Springfield, MOOffered at $185,000
Located on the corner of Commercial and Jefferson, and built in 1884, this 4,621 sf all-brick building is home to Ruthie's Bar and Grill. There is an apartment in back, and a loft above. The loft is currently vacant.
320 W. Commercial Street, Springfield, MOOffered at $100,000
Built in 1914, this 1,500 sf all-brick building is home to H & R Block. Street parking is available. New HVAC and newer roof.
504 E. Commercial Street, Springfield, MOOffered at $250,000
Built in 1886, this 3,916 sf building is all-brick, and home to Frisco Taproom. There is a 1,980 sf loft apartment which is currently leased. Newer HVAC.
301 E. Commercial Street, Springfield, MOOffered at $272,000
Built in 1932, this 4,500 sf building is located at the corner of Robberson and Commercial Streets, next to the police substation. There is approximately 1,000 sf of office space, and 3,500 sf of warehouse.
520 W. Commercial Street, Springfield, MOOffered at $50,000
This vacant commercial lot has access from Commercial Street, and Blaine (in the back). Currently being used for storage, would also make a great building site.
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