Springfield Predictions for 2012

A new year starts today. Patch asked several prominent Springfielders what they believed it would bring. 

Jerry Fernandez, Springfield Township Committee Member (R)

I predict we will see the special improvement District start to make a change in our UPTOWN and across Springfield.

Dave Amlen, Springfield Township Committee Member (D)

I am hoping most issues remain consistent. The differences between the Democrats and the Republicans are mainly in appointments to fill certain one year positions and board openings for township residents. As always, Democratic majorities will lean toward appointing Democratic constituents and Republican majorities will appointment Republican constituents. Expect a different township attorney and new Republican members for open board positions. Otherwise, Springfield moves into 2012.

Scott Seidel, Co-Chair, Springfield Patriot Chamber of Commerce

We are looking forward to the Business Improvement District starting to work on plans for the Township.  During the first half of 2012 Consultants will be gathering data and information from all businesses in town.  Implementation of programs will follow. There will be some visible signs of activity from the BID as well with the "Mytown marketing" program starting in January and the new banner program and branding programs getting underway.  This type of program (BID) has never been done in Town before.

Denise DeVone, Springfield Environmental Committee Chair

1. Construction projects will be more highly scrutinized in flood zone areas.
2. Town and the County will still be waiting for a definitive solution to the flooding situation.
3. Residents will expand their use of alternate energy.
4. Five Community Gardens will be available to residents for planting.
5. Springfield will have an intergenerational orchestra/band.
6. More solar powered Holiday lights.
7. Soccer team will win State Division.
8. Construction will have begun on the Athletic fields in front of Jonathan Dayton.
9. Resurgence of downtown activities for all ages.
10. The Township will still be deciding on what kind of suburb to be—highly urban or highly residential, probably leaning towards gradually becoming highly urban.
11. More trees will be planted to help curtail global warming and local flooding.
12. Bicyle Route to Union County College will have been completed and Mountain Bike trail will be built in the County's section of the quarry.
13.  Springfield will still be standing on Dec. 22, 2012.