Blasting for the Better

Kandice RileyAnnouncement, United Way Events

Blasting for the better

Power Station Stacks Implosion to Benefit United Way

After providing electricity to Springfield more than 60 years, the five generators inside James River Power Station are retired and the stacks are coming down. Because of this historic and rare event, City Utilities is partnering with United Way of the Ozarks to offer a special raffle event: Blasting for the Better.

Blasting for the Better

Blasting for the Better is an exclusive fundraiser that will result in one lucky winner detonating the implosion of the James River Power Station stacks.

“This is truly that once in a lifetime opportunity to play a key role in this historic event for Springfield,” said Gary Gibson, City Utilities President and CEO. “The partnership with United Way has the potential to raise money and bring attention to the work they do, plus provide this unique opportunity to our entire community.”

Text BLAST to 91999

Donations of $5 per chance can be made by texting BLAST to 91999 and online.

“For many years, the employees of City Utilities have been leaders in supporting United Way of the Ozarks,” said Greg Burris, United Way of the Ozarks President and CEO. “This unique opportunity for our community, and United Way, again depicts how they continually work to support our community beyond philanthropy and volunteerism. Who else implodes stacks for charity?”

Be a part of history

Enter as many times as you like through 5 p.m., Feb. 16. A winner will be selected Thursday, Feb. 17. Must be 18 years or older to win.

The implosion will occur Saturday, Feb. 19 at 9 a.m.

Details on the demolition, history of James River Power Station and a schedule of the implosion, including safety requirements, are found on the City Utilities website.

Learn more about the implosion

The Springfield News-Leader recently reported on the CU power station dismantling process that began in October 2021. Details about the implosion process, including what will happen with the fallen rubble, are included.

Blasting for the Better