BUILDING HEALTHY PLACES – COMMUNITY REGENERATION: THE GROVE AMY GILL CEO, RESTORATION ST. LOUIS ULI/FOCUS PROGRAM: MAY 29, 2014

TO SET THE STAGE … When revitalizing neighborhoods, it’s about what we term, “urban husbandry.” To nurture and care for these neighborhoods from re-birth to sustainability – we must create a shared vision and mission. This requires funding, community support, engagement and constant vigilance – along with a buy-in from those who visit. The Grove is much more than a collection of rehabbed buildings; it’s about building a neighborhood block by block. These “building blocks” are the foundation upon which great cities thrive. 2

HISTORY OF THE GROVE: WHERE WE STARTED The creation of westbound roads and rails out of St. Louis in the 1850s fostered the birth of what could be considered the city’s first “subdivision.” This wedge of residences and commerce was dubbed “Adam’s Grove” and quickly became one of St. Louis’ more desirable neighborhoods. A century later, Adam’s Grove would fall into neglected obscurity and consequently be renamed as “Forest Park Southeast.” 3

CRITICAL ELEMENTS FOR A HEALTHY GROVE Commercial Courtship Create a Pathway to Different Demographics Embrace LGBT & Young Bohemians Professionals & Couples Families and Nesters Promote the Community Street/Sidewalk Beautification Grants Creation of a Special Business District Avoid Counter-Community Businesses 4

WHY CREATE A SPECIAL BUSINESS DISTRICT? Building a neighborhood means more than just attracting businesses to the area … neighborhood businesses should SERVE a community, not prey upon it. 5

CREATE AN ORIGINAL COMMUNITY IDENTITY … 6

CELEBRATE THE COMMUNITY … 7

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE GROVE? Sustain the influx of young couples and families Access to schools Community infrastructure and retail needs Parks & outdoor activities/venues Drugstore, neighborhood amenities Community leadership Link to Forest Park I-64 is akin to I-70 “barrier” to Arch grounds. Connection to Cortex Innovation Community and other neighborhoods 8

THE LAST WORD: WHY THE GROVE SHOULD MATTER TO ST. LOUIS “Neighborhoods and commercial areas with a mix of older, smaller buildings make for more vibrant, walkable communities with more businesses, nightlife and cultural outlets than massive newer buildings. Older buildings become magnets for young people and retirees alike. They draw more shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, small businesses owned by women and minorities, and jobs.” --- National Trust for Historic Preservation “Older, Smaller, Better” May