Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) -The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce is keeping an eye on the state budget process, while readying for two big events.

“It is in the fact that Senator Turner has a proposal in there to help downtown and she’s actually got a couple other bills that I think will be fine, but one is kind of tied to the bear’s project,” said Mike Murphy, CEO, on the WTAX Morning Newswatch. “So we’re watching that. Yeah, the budget is a concern as far as our higher ed, our partners that we have, you know, SIU and UIS here in Springfield, we’re always anxious to see how that’s going to shake out. “

While the Chamber is making last-minute preparations for the annual “State of Greater Springfield” event Tuesday, which is sold old, finishing touches are being made on an event next month celebrating small businesses.

“The annual Small Business Awards is going to be June 23rd. It’s at the Crown Plaza,” said Murphy. 
”And this year, I believe we had 40 nominees and our four different categories. We have a nonprofit, new and emerging, small business, and then lifetime. So, we really honor all 40 of them because if you’ve been nominated, there’s a reason for that. “

With the rail relocation project that is happening down by the medical district, what are some things The Chamber is expecting?

“SIU School of Medicine and UIS are two major employers here in this community. And then, you know, SIU also provides services and research,” said Murphy. “And in my opinion, our growth is going to happen up there in the medical district in years to come. As soon as we move that train out of the medical district in 2027, it’s going to give us all kinds of opportunities.”