Show-Me State Times

St. Louis officials and community leaders gathered at the Missouri Botanical Garden to mark the start of construction on the Tower Grove Connector, a new infrastructure project designed to extend the Brickline Greenway's reach. The 1.8-mile protected bicycle and pedestrian pathway will link Tower Grove Park with the Cortex Innovation Community.

St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer emphasized the project's importance, stating, “Great cities have great infrastructure that strengthens connection.” She highlighted how it builds connections across St. Louis, creating accessible infrastructure for all residents.

The initiative is led by the City in collaboration with Greater St. Louis, Inc., and other partners. It aims to expand the Brickline Greenway's reach to more neighborhoods within St. Louis. Andy Taylor of Enterprise Mobility noted that this project connects various economic and cultural centers, enhancing St. Louis's competitiveness nationally.

Funded primarily through federal construction grants from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program, managed locally by the East-West Gateway Council of Governments, the nearly $18 million project also received support from local businesses and organizations.

Penny Pennington of Edward Jones praised the collaborative effort behind the Tower Grove Connector as a model for growth and progress in urban development: “We are united in our commitment to the Brickline Greenway and its potential to drive inclusive economic development.”

The project includes improvements such as sidewalk upgrades, traffic-calming measures, and repaving efforts along Tower Grove Avenue. Phase 1 construction has begun and is expected to conclude by summer 2026. Phase 2 design is underway with construction slated for 2026.

T. Christopher Peoples from Great Rivers Greenway highlighted similar projects like New York's High Line as examples of how such initiatives can drive economic investment: “We are already seeing it bring energy and momentum here to St. Louis.”

An economic impact study commissioned by Greater St. Louis, Inc., forecasts significant benefits from the Brickline Greenway, including increased property values and transportation safety improvements.

In addition to infrastructure enhancements, beautification efforts will include streetscaping and a public art installation under an I-44 overpass funded by Greater St. Louis, Inc., reflecting neighborhood character.