When the smokestacks of the James River Power Station came down last year following the 63-year-old plant's decommission, city planners looked ahead to the future of the facility and abutting Lake Springfield.
The City of Springfield and City Utilities — partnering with project specialists from around the country — have since collected data and input from area residents to help determine the future of the 1,000 acres around the power station.
It's been a painstaking process with a series of public meetings, including Thursday's open house at the Lake Springfield boathouse that brought a standing-room-only audience, many who were given tours of the power plant.