In a recent op-ed, the St. Louis Post Dispatch Editorial Board confirmed what many can already see — very real positive progress and momentum are taking place in Downtown St. Louis that will help shift its trajectory and shape its revival. The board points to some recent wins and priorities that are changing the tide, including two major policy priorities championed by Greater St. Louis, Inc., our partners, and our investors.
- This month, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe signed into law HB 3231, known as the Missouri Innovation, Public Safety, and Accountability Act. Its passage is a victory for main streets and downtowns throughout Missouri, including Downtown St. Louis. This legislation has long been a top priority of the business community, and over the past three years, Greater St. Louis, Inc. has worked with partners across the state in support of its passage.
- Locally, St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer signed into law Board Bill 22, legislation allocating $250 million in funds from the Rams settlement, including $55 million for Downtown.
“It’s not the job of this Editorial Board to be uncritical cheerleaders for economic development. But having spotlighted Downtown’s challenges and failures with the almost 12,000-word editorial series, it only makes sense for us now to call attention to what’s been going right lately.”
The board reminds us that we have much to do to see Downtown St. Louis reach its full potential. But that hard work is already in progress; we just have to stay the course.
“The city’s leaders and entrepreneurs are moving in the right direction,” the board writes. “This time, let’s keep going.”