For decades, a vacant lot has loomed over downtown Springfield, a reminder of stalled development plans since the demolition of the Hotel Abraham Lincoln in 1978. Despite sporadic use as a parking lot, the space remained largely neglected. In 2018, local nonprofits united to apply for a Levitt AMP Grant, inspired by neighboring Jacksonville’s successful revitalization project. Their goal: To spark community engagement and reimagine the dormant “Y-Block” as a vibrant hub. The inaugural Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series drew 8,000 attendees, igniting excitement for a permanent venue. Community feedback poured in, ranging from desires for a dog park to tennis courts. Beyond physical transformation, the series served as a catalyst for fostering unity in a city marked by historical divides. As a neutral ground where diverse neighborhoods converge, organizers aimed to create a space where all residents feel welcome and connected.