Champaign, Springfield neighborhoods recognized as state cultural districts

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Three neighborhoods in Central Illinois have been recognized as cultural districts by the state government.

Governor J.B. Pritzker announced 10 communities are being named ‘cultural districts’ at a news conference Monday. These include the North First Street neighborhood in Champaign, the Southtown neighborhood on the east side of Springfield, and the Central East area in Springfield.

“Illinois is full of vibrant communities that help make us who we are,” Governor J.B. Pritzker said. “I’m excited to announce our State-Designated Cultural Districts communities, towns, and geographic areas that have a distinct shared historical and cultural identity that binds them together. Today’s designations aim to promote greater growth, development, and opportunities throughout our state’s cultural hubs and encourage them to flourish over the coming years.”

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The other seven cultural districts named Monday are in the city of Chicago. A third and final round of five cultural districts will be named in 2025, with the DCEO noting they will spotlight downstate and rural districts.

The 15 cultural districts will be eligible to apply for $3 million in funding to help community leaders with preserving cultural landmarks in the area.

“These Designated Cultural Districts will amplify economic development opportunities while preserving the historical and cultural significance of these communities,” DCEO Director Kristin Richards said. “These communities are important to the Illinois story.”

In order to be eligible for the designation, the areas had to show risk of losing their cultural identity due to gentrification or the COVID-19 pandemic. The areas also needed to have a history of economic disinvestment.

With the recognition, community leaders noted Illinois is the first state in the nation to recognize areas for economic development based on their culture.

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Champaign mayor Deborah Frank Feinen said North First District has served as a downtown area for African American Champaign County residents for more than 170 years.

“We are excited as a city to have been selected as one of the 10 designated communities in the state,” Feinen said. “This is a great opportunity to generate equitable economic growth and build on the historic and rich cultural legacy of the African American community through the preservation of North First Street.”

Springfield leaders noted the designation will help highlight the Black history of city.

“Bringing State-Designated Cultural Districts to Springfield is a monumental step in the right direction for the community and for the state,” said Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield). “These official designations are essential to preserving the history of our state, highlighting the legacy and significant contributions of Black Illinoisans from the Great Migration and onward.”

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