St. Louis City and Business Leaders Partner to Revitalize Downtown: A Focus on Safety, Vibrancy, and Beauty
St. Louis City leaders and the metro business community have joined forces in a public-private partnership to revitalize Downtown St. Louis, aiming to make it safe, vibrant, and beautiful. The partnership between Greater St. Louis, Inc. (GSL) and the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) will focus on revitalizing key corridors and vacant properties that have been obstacles in the area.
Mayor Tishaura Jones has tasked GSL and SLDC with developing a plan within the next 120 days to address the Railway Exchange Building and the Millennium Hotel. This initiative is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to re-establish Downtown as an economic and cultural beacon for the entire region.
GSL is leading the metro’s plan to advance economic growth over the next decade with the STL 2030 Jobs Plan. CEO Jason Hall of Greater St. Louis, Inc. emphasized the importance of collaboration between the business community and the city to make Downtown a world-class neighborhood at the heart of the metro.
The Downtown Economic Justice initiatives include reducing office and retail vacancy, supporting catalytic projects, using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act for building renovations, incentivizing retail development, and prioritizing infrastructure improvements.
In terms of safety, a $3.6 million project to revitalize 7th Street between Ballpark Village and America’s Center will commence soon, featuring new sidewalks, trees, lighting, bike lanes, and retail opportunities. Crime has decreased by 40% year-to-date in Downtown, with efforts to strengthen public safety through increased police presence and community outreach.
To increase vibrancy in Downtown, initiatives like the Downtown Retail Incentive Program, City Social block party, Downtown Summer Nights, busking, Lunchtime Live events, and the Greater St. Louis Marathon have been launched. These events aim to bring more activity and energy to the area.
Projects to enhance the beauty of Downtown include infrastructure improvements, public art installations, and enhancements to Gateway Mall. These efforts are aimed at making the area more attractive, walkable, and visually appealing for residents and visitors alike.
Overall, the public-private partnership between GSL, SLDC, and the city of St. Louis is a significant step towards revitalizing Downtown and creating a more vibrant and thriving urban center for the community.