Downtown North Innovation District
Cofounded a new innovation district to attract Geospatial companies to St. Louis.
The Challenge
- The urban area around the Post Building was distressed, especially following covid
- Residents on Washington Avenue were not getting support on basic services
- Daily significant issues surrounding public safety, cruising, zoning issues and homelessness
Approach
- Partnering with The Globe Building and T Rex, we began communicating with area stakeholders on the real needs
- Formulated a CID centered on Washington Avenue Coordinated different stakeholders
- Developed relationships at the Federal, State and local levels
Results & Outcomes
- Shut down nuisance properties
- Part of the improved occupancy and turn around on Washington Avenue
- Improvement on measurable public safety concerns
Key Takeaways
- A seat at the table with key civic stakeholders is meaningful
- Stabilized area drives occupancy and leases
- Pragmatic Example of a strong public-private partnership
