Sector3

Sector3, also referred to as Sector Three, is a mixed‑use district situated in the western quadrant of Springfield, a mid‑size city in northern Illinois. The area was originally farmland but was rezoned for urban development in 1998 as part of the Springfield Redevelopment Initiative. Construction began in 2001, and the first residential towers opened in 2004. By 2009 the district had grown to include office complexes, a public park, and a community center.

Geographically, Sector3 is bounded by Lakeview Avenue to the north, Riverside Boulevard to the south, and Oak Street to the east. The district’s central feature is Greenfield Park, a 12‑acre green space that hosts seasonal festivals and farmers’ markets. The park’s centerpiece is a restored 1920s iron fountain, now a local landmark.

The neighborhood’s population, according to the 2020 U.S. Census, is approximately 7,200 residents. The demographic profile shows a mix of age groups, with 23% under the age of 18, 52% between 18 and 64, and 25% aged 65 or older. Household income levels in Sector3 average $82,500, slightly above the citywide median.

Commercial activity in Sector3 is largely concentrated along Oak and Lakeview, where several technology startups and regional law firms have established headquarters. The district also hosts the Springfield Innovation Hub, a shared workspace that supports small‑business growth and offers mentorship programs.

Public transportation options include two bus routes (38 and 43) that connect the district to downtown Springfield, and a commuter rail station on the north side of the district that provides service to Chicago. In 2015 a dedicated bike‑lane network was introduced, connecting the district to the city’s Green Cycle Trail.

Sector3 is governed by the Springfield Planning Commission, which oversees zoning, land use, and environmental compliance. In 2023 a new green‑building ordinance was adopted for the district, requiring all new construction to meet LEED Silver certification. The district’s development plan emphasizes sustainable growth, community engagement, and the preservation of its historical heritage.