Good morning, Springfield.

Union Pacific Railroad will unveil its new No. 1616 Lincoln Locomotive in Springfield on July 1 at the Amtrak Station—this event will mark its 163rd anniversary and honor President Lincoln with a tribute that begins at 1:30 p.m. and allows public viewing from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.—local dignitaries will also present the Train Town USA designation to the city.

Illinois State Police and the Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation honored two fallen troopers on the ISP Memorial Wall in Springfield this past Friday+ Trooper Corey Thompson died in October after his motorcycle was struck by a pickup truck in Champaign County and Trooper Clay Carns died in December after being hit while picking up debris.

Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport will receive $4.5 million for aircraft maintenance and flight training facilities after Senator Doris Turner secured the funds in the Illinois 2026 state budget signed earlier this week—this investment supports further upgrades to the airfield, terminal, and related facilities to boost local jobs and training.

A plan to ban arbitrary limits on anesthesia coverage has reached Gov. JB Pritzker's desk to protect patients from extra surgery costs.

Lawmakers filed the bill after insurers set time limits and both the House and Senate supported the measure unanimously (Sen. Doris Turner and Rep. Bill Hauter backing it).

Central Illinois organizations are working to protect elderly residents from the predicted summer heat—Senior Services of Central Illinois is visiting more than 400 seniors to check on air conditioning and power issues while delivering meals, and United Way has activated its 211 support line to help with rising electric bills. The groups stress that seniors deserve proper care and regular wellness checks during these periods of extreme weather.

A local guide offers Springfield residents affordable ways to beat the summer heat by suggesting visits to places like Nelson Center Pool (open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day) and local cooling centers (such as Municipal Center East and Lincoln Library that provide air-conditioned relief during business hours).

The Hemmings Great Race drove through downtown Springfield to close out stage three of its journey, which began in St. Paul and will finish in Irmo.

Race officials announced that Springfield will host the 2026 edition along Route 66 — marking the next chapter of the event.

Levitt AMP Springfield 2025 Season

Ten free concerts in downtown Springfield thanks to the Levitt Foundation, PNC Bank, Springfield Area Arts Council & many local partners! Bring your friends, family, dogs, chairs, and picnics or order from the many food trucks and enjoy free, live music every Thursday, May 29 - July 31 on the lawn in front of the Governor's Mansion.

Grease Musical

7 p.m. — Legacy Theatre — Check venue site for pricing — Experience the beloved musical journey of Danny and Sandy with classic tunes and lively performances.

Midnineties performing Bleed American

7 p.m. — Anvil & Forge Brewing and Distilling Company — Tickets vary — Experience Midnineties performing Jimmy Eat World's iconic album 'Bleed American' in full.

Zen Paint Night with Ashley Blake

2-4 p.m. — Kentucky Burn — All materials provided — Relax and tap into your creative spirit while painting in a calming atmosphere.

Rock the Dock

6-11 p.m. — Lake Springfield Marina — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with Central Illinois' largest fireworks display alongside live music and food.

Women's Distance Festival

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Washington Park — $5 and up — Celebrate women’s athleticism with races including a 2 Mile and Kids Fun Run.

Scheels/Capital City Classic Pickleball Tournament

Thu, Jul 17 – Sun, Jul 20 — Iles Park — Entry Fee Required — Compete in one of Springfield's exciting pickleball tournaments and showcase your skills.