SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - For the last few years, the Springfield Hotel and Lodging Association has seen a consistent number of hotel rooms being booked. While it is enough to keep the doors open, they are looking forward to a boost in business to build momentum.

"We've been running consistent occupancy numbers for probably the last 10-12 years," said Darin Dame, the president of the Springfield Hotel and Lodging Association. "We are typically around that 55% occupancy; our goal from a hotel environment is to crack 60%."

Dame believes that a boost will come in 2026, with some big changes coming to Springfield. The Route 66 Centennial is expected to bring thousands of tourists, as people drive the length of the famous roadway. The Scheels Sports Park at Legacy Pointe is also set to open

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