Show-Me State Times

Today, Mayor Tishaura O. Jones signed Board Bill 174, allowing for the economic redevelopment and revitalization of key neighborhoods around the new national geospatial-intelligence agency St. Louis site. Mayor Jones emphasized the significance of this bill by stating, "The signing of this bill is just one step in the city's long strides to bring economic revitalization to neighborhoods that have seen decades of neglect." She also addressed the residents directly, saying, "To the residents who are tired of seeing their neighborhood fall into disrepair - we hear you, and we are taking action."

Ald. Rasheen Aldridge, who sponsored the bill, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the legislation, stating, "This piece of legislation truly was community driven." The involvement of residents from the beginning was crucial in shaping the bill, reflecting a grassroots approach to community development.

Board Bill 174 approves the Redevelopment Plan and Blighting Study for the North Grand Blvd./ Natural Bridge Ave./ North Florissant Ave./ Cass Ave./ Dr. Martin Luther King Dr. Redevelopment Area. This initiative aims to revitalize the designated area by addressing blight and clearing title issues through limited eminent domain powers granted by the bill.

The redevelopment efforts in these neighborhoods are part of a broader strategy to bring economic rejuvenation to the north side of St. Louis. Initiatives like the SLDC's Economic Justice Action Plan and the upcoming Metrolink Green Line project are key components of this revitalization plan. The Metrolink Green Line, recently approved by the East-West Gateway Council of Governments, will provide essential transportation infrastructure to support the economic growth and sustainability of the area.

The national geospatial intelligence agency St. Louis site, situated in the historic St. Louis Place neighborhood, is a significant development project that will further contribute to the revitalization of the area. The campus, set to be completed in 2026, will accommodate a 700,000-square-foot office building, parking garages, a visitor center, and other facilities, ultimately housing a staff of 3,150 employees.

Overall, the signing of Board Bill 174 marks a pivotal moment in empowering Jeff-Vander-Lou and St. Louis Place neighborhood residents to actively participate in the revitalization and protection of their communities, ushering in a new era of growth and opportunity for these historically neglected areas.