Historical November–December 1998 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
For a long time now, I have frequently wondered about what it takes to make a city thrive. Many central cities, including of course St. Louis, have experienced a severe loss of residents, businesses, and jobs. Bucking the trend takes tremendous energy.
The best written account of an attempt to do is Buzz Bissinger’s A Prayer for the City, the story of Mayor Ed Rendell and Philadelphia.
It seems that even if round-the-clock efforts are maintained by city officials, the outlook can still be bleak. Yet, there are several developments that can encourage hope.
A number of cities—including Detroit and Newark—have met with huge success on the opening of performing arts facilities in their downtowns.
These facilities have helped to encourage dining venues and most importantly, housing for artists and friends, particularly in offices and warehouses converted to loft living.
This effort is beginning in downtown St. Louis, particularly along Washington Ave. Not only are loft apartments appearing but also clubs and eateries geared to younger adults.
A critical mass living downtown can spur further commercial development and conversely commerce can generate further conversions to residential space. At least part of the credit for downtown’s new possibilities has to go to Metropolis, a group of under 35s who actively encourage a rebirth of downtown and who continually promote city living.
I applaud their energy and their collective positive attitude. Perhaps their example can wake up the town elders whose support and capital are vital if St. Louis is to really be a renaissance city.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, November–December 1998.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1998_11.pdf, printed page(s) 2; PDF page(s) 2.
