1969; poor city planning decisions, such as the location
of the elevated I-91 along the city's Connecticut Riverfront; and overall
decline of industry throughout the northeastern U.S. During the 1980s and
1990s, Springfield developed a national reputation for crime, political
corruption and cronyism, which stands in stark contrast to the reputation it
enjoyed throughout much of U.S. history. During early 21st Century, Springfield
sought to overcome its downgrade in reputation via long-term revitalization
projects, and undertook several large-but-unfinished projects including a $1
billion high speed rail (New Haven-Hartford-Springfield high speed rail;)a proposed $1 billion MGM Casino; and various
other construction and revitalization projects
