Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The new director of Downtown Springfield Inc. says his organization is “resident-first.” Jay Shanle (pictured) told the city council. “Simply put.” said Shanle, “it’s focusing on engaging our community over attracting tourism. We’re not blind to the effects that tourism has on our economy, but tourism, as we know, is seasonal, and it’s short-term gains. where residents offer a greater long-term effect on foot traffic and vitality in our downtown.”

When asked what effect the visit of the “Big Boy” locomotive July 18 had on downtown, Shanle said, “The farmers’ market does a great job of bringing in, on average, 8-10,000 visitors, so to see that 12,000 number, we had not only the market that was affected, but also many of our businesses.”

Shanle said he would like to use light-pole banners to better promote downtown and its attractions. He said there are about 200 poles which have the arms to which banners may be attached.