History
In 1833, Greene County was organized and the settlement of Springfield was established as the county seat. The city officially incorporated in 1838. In 1870, the South Pacific Railroad came through the area just a mile-and-a-half north of the old town site. North Springfield, including what would become the Woodland Heights neighborhood, quickly grew around the new railway station. The new town of North Springfield was incorporated in 1871. However, North Springfield would soon be annexed by its much larger neighbor to the south in 1887.
Today
With a current population of 150,000, Springfield has grown into a bustling medium size city offering many of the same amenities of larger cities, while keeping its small town charm. There's a rich assortment of stage productions presented by numerous venues including the Landers Theatre, Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, the Gillioz Theatre, and The Vandivort Center. Other cultural attractions include the Springfield Art Museum, The Dickerson Park Zoo, the Discovery Center, Fantastic Caverns, and Wonders of Wildlife Zooquarium. Woodland Heights is centrally located and minutes away from all of these cultural attractions, making it a great family friendly place to live.
Springfield neighborhoods display a wide variety of housing options. From suburban life in the south side of town, lofts and higher density options in the downtown area, and charming older homes in the city's midtown and north side sections. The city also has an extensive bicycle trail that meanders through and around the city, and many public parks for those that enjoy the outdoors. Lafayette Park, located in Woodland Heights, dates from the late 1800's and is an ongoing preservation project by the Woodland Heights Neighborhood Association.
Education
Springfield Public School District R-XII has consistently been rated one of the best performing school districts in the state. Woodland Heights is served by two high school districts dividing Woodland Heights in half. The southeast portion of Woodland Heights falls under the Central High School district, and the northwest side falls under the Hillcrest High School district. Each district has its advantages, based on curriculum differences. However, Springfield R-XII is an open enrollment school district allowing the parent or guardian to choose where their student will attend. There are some limitations on the open enrollment policy, and each parent/guardian is encouraged to contact the Springfield R-XII school district if considering sending their student outside of their home district.
The Woodland Heights Neighborhood Association has been actively involved with the school district, and takes a proactive roll in insuring a quality education for our children. Programs such as; helping the school district combat truancy, purchasing school supplies for disadvantage children, and finding safe and educational activities for our children during summer and holiday breaks, have all made a positive impact in improving the academic performances of our students.
The Neighborhood & Association
Woodland Heights, a great place to live, work, play, and at the center of it all. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city offering a great mixture of architectural styles prevalent during the late 1800's. Stately Victorians, classic Four-Squares, and charming Cottages make up the majority of homes in this mostly residential area of the city. Serving as the heart of this wonderful community is Lafayette Park, the backdrop for many neighborhood events maintaining the qualities of a real neighborhood with real people.
Woodland Heights, with its centralized location, has easy access to the Springfield Branson National Airport, I-44, and public transportation. The neighborhood is serviced by three quality health systems, five major colleges and universities, and a great public school system. Excellent employment opportunities are provided by Springfield, and the surrounding area's strong economy. A variety of dining choices and entertainment options are located within the immediate vicinity. The neighborhood has a low crime rate and a strong police presence. Blessed by these factors, we feel there could be no better place to call home.
The Woodland Heights Neighborhood Association's mission is to;
- preserve the best qualities of the neighborhood,
- improve on the foundations,
- and to promote the area.
Our programs are designed to fill the needs that exist, and provide opportunities to enhance the quality of life for the residents and members of our community. Join us in our endeavor, and help make a difference.