Events Upcoming
New Members
The community is invited to gather in the heart of downtown for a special ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the installation of the new “My Heart’s Downtown” sculpture on Friday, February 27 at 12:00 PM at the Old State Capitol Plaza in Springfield.
Installed near the historic Old State Capitol, the large-scale heart sculpture serves as a bold and welcoming symbol of community pride and downtown revitalization. The piece has already become a popular gathering place, encouraging residents and visitors to explore local shops, restaurants, and attractions throughout the city center.
The project was made possible through a generous grant from the Capital Area REALTORS® Association, whose support advances initiatives that strengthen and beautify downtown Springfield. The gift was made to the Downtown Springfield Heritage Foundation, the organization formally housing the My Heart’s Downtown campaign and accepting donations.
The sculpture was fabricated and installed by Ace Sign Company, whose craftsmanship helped bring the concept to life in record time. Click here to view behind-the-scenes footage of the making of the sculpture.
The campaign concept originated at Kidzeum and came to fruition through the extraordinary efforts of the members of the My Heart’s Downtown committee.
The My Heart’s Downtown committee includes:
• Cainan Barnett, Isringhausen Imports
• Karen Conn, Conn Hospitality Group
• Elisa Fox, Kidzeum of Health and Science
• Jay Shanle, Downtown Springfield Inc.
• Scott Troehler, the Downtown Springfield Heritage Foundation
• Leah Wilson, Kidzeum of Health and Science
"This sculpture is a visible reminder of what happens when community partners rally around a shared vision," said Fox. "While designing the logo, I experimented with a sideways heart representing forward momentum, the idea that love leans in and carries a community ahead. In many ways, that's exactly what this committee did. They immediately leaned into the work, the collaboration, and a shared belief in what downtown could be. That spirit is what made this possible, and it truly would not have happened without each member and the unique talents they brought. We hope it becomes a place where people gather, take photos, and feel a real sense of pride and connection to the heart of our city."
Together, the committee represents nonprofit, business, and civic leadership working collectively to build momentum and strengthen Springfield’s urban core.
The heart sculpture will serve as a focal point for celebrations, events, and continued downtown activation.
Community members, business owners, media, and elected officials are encouraged to attend the ribbon cutting and celebrate this new addition to Springfield’s downtown landscape.
Individuals and businesses interested in supporting the My Heart’s Downtown campaign can visit myheartsdowntown.org/donate and follow My Heart’s Downtown on social media.
