SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The City of Springfield gave the green light to move forward with a plan to redevelop the Y Block downtown.
The space is currently vacant and hosts events like the Levitt AMP music series.
Springfield City Council voted Tuesday to donate the land to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
IDNR plans to use $4 million in state funding to create an amphitheater, landscaping and a children's play area.
"I would think as a business owner in downtown, I would want a nice, beautiful park where people might come more than just once or twice a week for the Levitt. I know we have a few other events; we have Pride, we have a few other events down there, but it's really underutilized property," said Ward 1 Alderman Jeff Cox.
Some aldermen were concerned about how to hold IDNR accountable if the agency pulls out of the project or changes its scope.
An amendment to put guardrails in place was narrowly defeated.
IDNR is expected to close on the property in August.
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