Show-Me State Times

Today, Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, accompanied by 3rd Ward Alderman Shane Cohn, City staff, Allies of Marquette Park, Dutchtown Main Streets, Show Me Peace, and neighborhood residents, inaugurated the renovated basketball courts and new pickleball courts in Marquette Park.

"This is the second week in a row the City of St. Louis is opening free, outdoor sports facilities in one of our City parks," said Mayor Jones. "Giving St. Louisans, and especially our babies, more opportunities to get outside, get active, and have a good time in our 108 parks makes our City stronger, safer, and healthier."

The renovations were funded by the Biden-Harris administration's American Rescue Plan Act. These upgrades are part of ongoing efforts to enhance Marquette Park and surrounding areas in south St. Louis.

The Jones administration has committed over $5 million for neighborhood transformation around Marquette Park. This includes $325,000 for beautification projects on Virginia and Alabama avenues; $800,000 for Neighborhood Plan Implementation that will feature a new artistic fence for the Marquette Park pool; $1.375 million to develop over 50 affordable homes by rehabilitating six vacant buildings near the park; and $2.9 million for a new Family Care health clinic on Grand Boulevard.

Additionally, the City is redesigning 7.8 miles of Grand Boulevard to improve safety for all users and advancing phase two of the Louisiana Calm Streets project from Meramec Street to Carondelet Park to enhance travel safety and enjoyment in south St. Louis.