In an effort to accelerate the revitalization of Downtown St. Louis, city leaders and members of the business community have announced the establishment of a public-private partnership. The primary focus of this initiative is to make Downtown St. Louis “safe, vibrant, and beautiful.”
Mayor Tishaura O. Jones expressed her pride in collaborating with civic and business leaders who share a vision for a thriving Downtown St. Louis. In conjunction with the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) and Greater St. Louis, Inc., Mayor Jones’ administration aims to restore Downtown as the economic and cultural hub of the region.
The SLDC and Greater St. Louis, Inc., will concentrate their efforts on rejuvenating key corridors and vacant properties that have been obstacles to Downtown’s potential growth. Mayor Jones has specifically requested these organizations to devise a bold action plan within 120 days for two significant properties: the Railway Exchange Building and the Millennium Hotel.
Neal Richardson, President & CEO of SLDC, stated that they are committed to holding building owners accountable for removing blighted structures in the city’s cultural core. The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority will lead implementation efforts in partnership with GSL and the Mayor’s Office.
Greater St. Louis, Inc., is currently overseeing the implementation of STL 2030 Jobs Plan aimed at promoting inclusive economic growth over this decade. Jason Hall, CEO of Greater St. Louis, Inc., highlighted that it would require hard work, intentional collaboration, and focus to address complex challenges developed over decades.
The Jones Administration’s Economic Justice Action Plan includes supporting commercial development in Downtown as a key priority under its Equitable & Inclusive Development pillar.
City leaders also outlined critical steps underway or planned for making Downtown safe, vibrant, and beautiful through various initiatives including increased patrols by SLMPD for enhanced safety; programs like City Social and Lunchtime Live to increase vibrancy; infrastructure improvements and public art projects to enhance beauty.
Work to revitalize 7th Street between Ballpark Village and the America’s Center is slated to begin in the coming weeks. The project will include new sidewalks, trees, lighting, bike lanes, and opportunities for new retail.
The leaders also highlighted a significant reduction in crime Downtown, down 40% year to date compared with this time last year. However, they acknowledged that there is still work to be done to strengthen public safety.
