SPRINGFIELD, Fla. – Not long ago, Springfield was better known for its crime rate than its charm; however, neighbors today say the area has begun turning heads for a very different reason, as the historic Jacksonville community has transformed from a place many avoided into a destination where people want to live, work, and play.
And the city’s turnaround is being attributed to the dedication and passion of the community itself.
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“I would say charm, revitalized and exciting,” says Michael Haskins, executive director of the Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council (SPAR). “We have a really beautiful historic community. It’s charming to walk down these streets, see the houses, the tree canopy, and the unique architectural styles that exist in Springfield.”
The word “revitalized” comes up often in Springfield — and for good reason. Historic homes are being restored, local businesses are thriving, and there’s real momentum to keep that progress going.
“Springfield has had many of the issues and concerns that a lot of cities in America, especially downtown and urban core areas, have had,” Haskins explains. “But what we’ve seen here is a true rejuvenation. Wonderful families are moving in, and new businesses are opening their doors.”
But a major turning point for Springfield came through community-led action.
Residents partnered with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) to reduce crime and launched creative events like the Jacksonville PorchFest, which brings neighbors together and draws visitors from across the city.
“We have a very good working relationship with JSO,” Haskins notes. These efforts have helped rewrite the narrative about Springfield.
“One of our biggest successes was figuring out how to encourage people to visit the neighborhood,” Haskins says. “Once people are here, they see it for themselves — they walk around and experience the community.”
That local buy-in has sparked new investment. A former pawn shop is now a popular pizza place, and an old auto garage has been transformed into a bustling brewery.
“So Crispy Springfield Gallery — it’s a pizza place at Eighth and Main. They bought a pawn shop that had been there for years and converted it into a neighborhood hangout spot,” Haskins shares. “That was the first major business investment that bucked the trend of pawn shops and auto shops.”
And Springfield’s story is far from over. New apartment complexes, fresh development, and a continued focus on safety are all part of the neighborhood’s future.
“Having a single point person like Commander Ricks, who can shepherd concerns and make sure they get to the right person, has been really helpful,” says Haskins.
If you haven’t been to Springfield in a while — or ever — now is the time.
“Come down and take a look at some of these businesses or one of the events we have,” Haskins encourages. “I think it’ll give you a different perspective on the neighborhood.”