Residents of the 5900 block of McPherson and others gathered on the vacant lot Saturday, April 15th, to discuss improvement of the lot. Surveys were taken of the residents of the block before the meeting to determine a fuller picture of what the residents of the area feel is needed in the vacant lot. This information will help in planning improvements. The SkinkerDeBaliviere Community Council, Washington Heights Neighbors, and Cornerstone Corporation (who own the six-family building next to the lot) have endorsed and encouraged a plan to be developed for the lot. Ernie Stanley (of the 6000 block of Pershing), Gordon Carlson (of the 6000 block of Kingsbury) and Nancy Saville (of the 5900 block of McPherson) wrote and distributed the survey with the help of Ernie’s fellow students at Meramec Community College.
At the meeting, Ernie explained his interest in starting the project as a result of being involved in similar projects with the Community Design Class at Meramec and being aware of the lot as a member of Cornerstone Corporation. His class has most recently been involved in Jackson Park in University City.
Under the leadership of Associate Professor Arthur Grunmann, students from the Community Design Class presented drawings and studies of the lot as it is now used. A committee of interested residents will be formed to work on developing a plan for improvement of the lot in conjunction with the students. Further information can be obtained from Ernie Stanley at 863-0761.
Originally published in The Paper, May 1978.
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Original source: SD_Times1978_05.pdf, printed page(s) 3; PDF page(s) 3.
