About the Study

The Our Region Our Vision Future Growth Plan will combine, update, and expand upon the West Loop Study (completed in 1999) and the South Growth Area Study (completed in 2005). These studies forecasted development patterns that, in some cases, did not fully materialize. Updating these projections with current data, in the context of the current environment, will provide more accurate insights into future needs and ensure that the plan recommends achievable outcomes.

Furthermore, there have been significant advancements in planning and sustainable development over the last 25 years, offering opportunities to learn from national best practices and apply them in Sangamon County. This data-driven approach will help prioritize infrastructure investments, prevent overbuilding or underutilization of resources, and prepare the region for realistic growth.

Study Area

The study focuses on the Springfield, Chatham, and Auburn areas, including both developed and undeveloped land, with opportunities for housing, transportation, utilities, open space, and future business expansion.

What to Expect

  • Review the previous studies

  • Analyze current land use, infrastructure, utilities, and traffic conditions

  • Gather input from the public, community stakeholders, and a technical committee comprised of local experts

  • Identify infrastructure and community needs

  • Conduct scenario planning to test different growth approaches and make informed projections

  • Outline best practices

  • Propose actionable recommendations to prepare for future growth

Meet the Team

The Springfield-Sangamon County Regional Planning Commission is leading this study with support from planning and engineering consultants at CMT and Hanson. Together, this team brings local insight and technical expertise to help shape a shared vision for growth in Sangamon County.


  • The SSCRPC is overseeing the Our Region Our Vision Future Growth Plan, coordinating engagement, and guiding the development of a long-range, community-supported plan.


  • CMT is the lead planning and engineering consultant for the study. Their team is responsible for project management, public engagement, infrastructure analysis, growth scenario planning, and preparation of the final plan.


  • Hanson is serving as a planning and engineering partner, providing expertise in transportation, environmental analysis, and public engagement. Their experience with local infrastructure and previous planning studies in the area brings deep knowledge to the team.

Project Timeline

Spring 2025

Project Kickoff

Initial meeting with SSCRPC and consultant team to launch the study and define goals.

Summer-Fall 2025

Existing Conditions Analysis

Fieldwork, map creation, data review, and local interviews.

Fall 2025

Public Open House #1

Community feedback on current conditions and future vision.

Winter 2025–2026

Future Growth Scenarios

Testing possible growth patterns, infrastructure needs, and land uses.

Spring 2026

Draft Plan & Open House #2

Presenting draft recommendations to the public and stakeholders.

Summer 2026

Final Plan Completed

Plan finalized and presented to SSCRPC for future implementation.

Contact us

If you have questions about the study, would like to request more information, or want to provide input, please use the contact form or email us directly. Your feedback is important to this planning effort.