The Link is a planned bicycle and pedestrian route through Springfield’s core that will connect existing and planned greenways. The route will be primarily on existing streets with minimal vehicular traffic. The experiences of walkers and bicyclists on The Link will vary along different routes; however, the ultimate goal is to develop a system of shared-use routes that creates an experience of comfort and safety. While the experience will not be the same as walking or riding on a greenway trail, the landscaping, fixtures, and materials along The Link are planned to be better than along a typical city street.

The Link will connect more than just greenways. By routing The Link through the core of Springfield, it will connect neighborhoods; other modes of travel; and retail, services and employment activity centers. The centers include:

• Commercial Street
• Drury University
• Ozarks Technical Community College
• The IDEA Commons
• Jordan Valley
• Hammons Field (Cardinal’s minor league team)
• Downtown
• Missouri State University
• St. John’s Hospital
• Battlefield Mall
• Cox South Hospital.

The initial routes are in north and central Springfield where many of the City's low- and moderate-income neighborhoods are located. These routes will provide alternative transportation for residents that need it the most.

Where routes intersect a greenway or a transit route, Link Stations are planned. Link Stations are shelters with amenities such as benches, water fountains and bike racks and bike pumps. This will allow residents to ride a bus to The Link and continue their trips on foot or by bicycle. All City Utilities’ buses have bicycle racks. There are also plans to demonstrate innovative storm water solutions to reduce localized drainage issues and improve the environment along The Link.

The Link, like the greenway system, will take a number of years to complete. All of the funding is not available to complete The Link. A Concept Plan is being developed for the routes shown on the concept map to provide designs for signage along all routes and infrastructure improvements such as sidewalks, pavement markings, traffic signal modifications, lighting, storm water improvements, link stations, and landscaping along the entire north-south corridor.