SPRINGFIELD – “Walktober” takes place each October, promoting wellness and encouraging folks to enjoy the autumn weather while being active.
The Springfield mayor went on a two-mile walk through the Washburne District and the new Mill Street pedestrian and bicycle facilities as part of We Walk Lane County’s Walktober.
“Saturday’s walk was a great reminder of what makes Springfield special,” Mayor Sean VanGordon said.
A group of citizens joined the Mayor on Saturday for the Walktober event. ALL PHOTOS BY BOB WILLIAMS
The public was invited, and around 10 people joined him. They started at the fountain at City Hall and ended at Lovely’s at Mill and Main St.
“We talked about the history of Mill Street and Washburne, the energy in our downtown, and how this city has always been about building, making, and showing up for one another,” VanGordon said.
Public information officer Elyse Ditzel said Mill Street is scheduled to reopen on Halloween, the afternoon of Friday, Oct. 31. The City is planning a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Nov. 5 at 2 p.m.
According to the City’s website, construction on Mill Street started in 2024 and cost $11,292,639. The reconstruction of Mill Street from South A St. to Centennial Blvd. has had detours in place for people walking, biking, and driving since September.
As of Sept. 19, E St. to Centennial Blvd. has been closed to through traffic and is open to local traffic only. Traffic is only northbound, and access is from D to South A streets, which are open to cross Mill Street but are closed to traffic.
Over time, Mill Street has reached a state of deterioration beyond maintenance treatments because it serves as a collector for residences and some commercial use, and access to Centennial Blvd. and Main St. It also presents challenges to bicyclists and pedestrians.
“Between 2008-2015, nine bicyclist-involved crashes were reported along the project length,” according to Springfield’s website. They currently weave in and out of parked cars along the street and ride in the roadway.
The reconstruction project aims to create a new transportation asset, improve accessibility for pedestrians and bicyclists, improve street lighting and stormwater facilities, and rehabilitate wastewater lines.
“It was more than just a walk. It was a chance to connect, share stories, and see how our past continues to shape where we are headed,” VanGordon said.
