As we begin 2016, Springfield is on the verge of many exciting opportunities that have come forth after years of careful planning under the direction of Mayor Domenic Sarno.

That excitement is tangible as we see the heavy equipment navigating site prep and demolition activities on the site of the $950 million MGM Springfield development.  On the north edge of downtown, a 377 space parking garage is rising for Union Station as the historic terminal building is being prepared for a late 2016 grand opening, with commuter rail to follow. This $88 million investment will provide a brand new face to transit in Springfield and the region and become a hub of daily activity.

In East Springfield, building renovation and site prep have begun for the $94 million CRRC railway facility, a project that will bring 150 good paying manufacturing and assembly jobs to the site of the former Westinghouse company. As the company continues to pursue new contracts throughout the country in addition to its MBTA contract, all signs point to this being a wonderful addition to Springfield's corporate landscape.

These developments are tremendous additions to our local economy, and the spinoff that they generate has already begun with businesses choosing to locate and expand in Springfield to become part of the supply chain. And while a great deal of new economic activity is swirling in the city, longstanding economic catalysts like MassMutual Finance, Baystate Health, and Smith & Wesson continue to innovate and grow, employing thousands of our residents and people throughout the region.

We are then left with a great problem to have - many jobs to fill in the upcoming years. The Mayor is laser focused on workforce development to prepare our residents for the opportunities that will become available today, tomorrow, and in the future.

Much like Bright Nights, the economic future of Springfield is ready to shine.