Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Springfield city council is one vote away from handing the Y Block to the state.

“IDNR‘s goal is to create a welcoming, accessible greenspace in the heart of downtown Springfield, Ill.,” Department of Natural Resources deputy director Russ Orrill told the council Tuesday. “The concept plan (pictured) features all native Illinois landscaping, shaded seating areas, ADA-accessible walking paths, and a natural play area for children. The centerpiece of the design is a natural stone amphitheatre with total capacity for 1,500-2,000 people.”

The alderman who represents the area had something to say. “I’m tired of these designs. I’m tired of these discussions,” said Ald. Shawn Gregory. “From what I know, from back in 2019, there’s always been some discussion on what we’re going to do with this stinkin’ block.” Gregory, however, endorsed the project and said the other nine aldermen should as well.

Ald. Roy Williams has serious reservations about an out-and-out giveaway. “I’m trying to figure out how somebody somewhere just said, well, we’re going to give it away for free. I want my colleagues to consider that, to think about that,” he said. “We’re going to give a block – an important city block, at that – away for free.”

The final vote is scheduled for July 21.