Railyard Changes Hands, Bus Stop Relocates, and New Bookstore Opens
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Springfield is witnessing notable shifts in its dining, drinking, and retail scene, as highlighted by Michelle Ownbey, executive editor of the Springfield Business Journal, during her recent appearance on WTAX Morning Newswatch.
This year’s downtown water main break disrupted plans for a new bar called the Bus Stop at Fifth and Monroe Streets. However, the owners quickly found an alternative location just across the street, moving to the former Bar None space. “They are hoping to be opened before Halloween,” Ownbey noted, emphasizing that the new location is significantly larger than their originally intended space.
In further developments, the Railyard, an outdoor food court on Sixth Street, has changed ownership. After operating since February 2025, Tim and Emily Lewis, who recently welcomed their fifth child and are planning a move to Florida, have passed the torch to Brad and Adria Martin, who already run Oakview BBQ, a vendor at the Railyard.
Additionally, the former Fifth Street Flower Shop will soon transform into Kindness + Co., a Christian bookstore committed to donating to local community organizations.
