Draft plans outline a long-term vision to revitalize North St. Louis around the NGA campus

Draft plans for a broad revitalization of six North City neighborhoods surrounding the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s (NGA) new campus were released to the public this week, laying out a multi-phased effort that city leaders say will tie large federal investment to long-sought local renewal.

The Project Connect drafts, produced by the St. Louis Development Corporation with input from community stakeholders, cover Carr Square, Columbus Square, Hyde Park, Jeff-Vander-Lou, Old North St. Louis, and St. Louis Place. The hundreds of pages outline priorities including housing reuse, infrastructure upgrades, transportation improvements, workforce development, and cultural amenities. The documents are intended to coordinate private development proposals with public investments tied to the NGA campus.

Officials emphasized that the plans are drafts and are subject to refinement following public comment. An open house and review materials were made available so residents can weigh in on specifics such as converting vacant St. Louis Public Schools buildings into housing, a proposed museum honoring the Negro Leagues in Jeff-Vander-Lou, and targeted streetscape work intended to improve sidewalks, crossings, and stormwater systems.

Construction and engineering work tied to the Next NGA West campus has already been a major presence in North City; the agency opened its new St. Louis facility in late September after a multiyear, roughly $1.7 billion build. The federal project was executed under U.S. Army Corps of Engineers oversight and built by a McCarthy-HITT joint venture, and city planners say that experience and contracting base will help accelerate neighborhood infrastructure contracts.

Design and planning partners on Project Connect include the city’s SLDC and outside consultants experienced in neighborhood planning; Interboro Partners is listed among firms that worked on the “Our Plan” process, which guided community engagement and mapping of implementation steps. Officials said implementation will roll out in phases tied to funding availability, public-works bidding cycles, and private development timelines — a process that could span several years.

Advocates and skeptics alike voiced cautious optimism at recent forums, with supporters pointing to job creation and improved services and critics warning about displacement and the need for enforceable community benefits. City leaders urged residents to review the drafts online and at upcoming meetings so the next round of revisions will reflect neighborhood priorities as Project Connect moves from planning to action.

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Header image: Next NGA West, a mega-project jointly managed by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Air Force, opened its new campus in north St. Louis Sept. 26, 2025. Image | NGA

Catalyst hub redevelopment positions St. Louis as a rising leader in bioscience innovation

What once stood as the headquarters of a nonprofit serving people with disabilities is being reborn into a cornerstone of St. Louis’ life-sciences economy. Washington University in St. Louis and its development affiliates have broken ground on Catalyst: Powered by WashU, a $100 million transformation of the former Goodwill Industries complex into a dynamic bioscience innovation hub in the heart of the Cortex Innovation District.

The seven-story midcentury building at 4140 Forest Park Blvd., long vacant since Goodwill’s departure, is undergoing extensive renovation and expansion. The 120,000 SF historic structure will be restored and integrated with a new 50,000 SF, four-story addition, creating roughly 163,000 SF of modern lab, office, and collaboration space tailored to mid- and late-stage bioscience startups.

Washington University’s affiliate BOBB LLC is leading the redevelopment with HOK as the project’s architect and Tarlton as construction manager. The redevelopment aims not only to preserve architectural character — the building is on the National Register of Historic Places — but also to enhance it with contemporary amenities, including a ground-floor lobby with a coffee bar and shared meeting areas, and multiple elevators to improve access throughout the facility.

Officials describe Catalyst as graduation space — high-quality infrastructure that enables bioscience companies to scale operations beyond the early incubator phase. Cortex, the 200-acre innovation community co-founded by WashU and anchored in Midtown, has long attracted startups and established players alike by offering access to talent, capital, and facilities. Still, demand for wet labs and specialized space has outpaced supply, making Catalyst’s arrival timely for the region’s ecosystem.

C2N Diagnostics, a local success story with deep WashU roots, is the anchor tenant and first occupant. The company, known for developing advanced blood tests for Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions, will lease more than 82,000 SF for its headquarters and CLIA-certified laboratory, occupying the first three floors. C2N’s expansion is expected to elevate both its global impact and local job creation.

Doug Frantz, WashU’s vice chancellor for innovation and commercialization, noted that the redevelopment represents far more than a simple property upgrade. He emphasized that Catalyst is designed to unlock new potential by reducing barriers for startups moving toward commercialization.

Cortex leaders believe the new hub will play a central role in attracting and retaining top scientific talent, helping ensure that major breakthroughs developed in St. Louis continue to grow there. Cortex CEO Sam Fiorello has described the project as a strong demonstration of regional collaboration that reinforces the city’s standing as a leading destination for biotech and life sciences.

Construction continues through 2026, with C2N’s move planned for late that year and additional lab and office spaces available for lease. As Catalyst rises from its historic roots, it embodies both St. Louis’ industrial legacy and its aspirations as a national innovation leader. 

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Header image: A rendering of a common area within the four-story, 163,000 SF Catalyst redevelopment in the Cortex Innovation District of WashU. Image | HOK

Fire casts new doubt on Gateway South’s redevelopment vision

The ambitious Gateway South redevelopment just south of the Gateway Arch National Park counts among its backers several well-known development and investment firms — and those relationships will now shape how the project pivots in the wake of the devastating warehouse fire.

The master developer of Gateway South is Good Developments Group (GDG), which has assembled roughly 100 contiguous acres of former industrial land along the downtown riverfront. GDG is working in a joint venture with at least two principal investors: Vault Partners — a Houston-based investment firm — and Millstone Company, a Clayton-based real-estate and private-equity firm.

In addition, the marketing and leasing of the project’s industrial and office components have been entrusted to large brokerage firms. Cushman & Wakefield leads outreach for industrial tenants, while CBRE handles Class A office leasing — part of its original commitment to unlock up to 500,000 square feet of office space within the first phase.

The involvement of these firms will likely influence how Gateway South responds to the fire’s fallout. For example, the financing structure already relies heavily on tax incentives, including historic-preservation tax credits, brownfield credits, and property tax abatements — tools that were integral to the project’s financial viability prior to the fire. With the destruction of part of the historic Crunden‑Martin Manufacturing Company complex — once slated to form the “innovation core” of the district — developers may now need to reassess which tax credits remain applicable, or whether new public subsidies will be required.

Furthermore, the financial and reputational strength of Millstone Company and Vault Partners could prove critical — their backing makes the project more credible to prospective tenants, lenders, and public-funding authorities at a time when confidence may waver. Millstone’s involvement in particular was viewed as a coup for the relatively young Good Developments Group, giving the effort local gravitas and deep experience.

Still, the fire complicates matters. Plans to reuse and repurpose the Crunden-Martin buildings formed the centerpiece of the project’s economic case and identity. With that vision disrupted, the development team may pivot toward building new structures, or redistributing planned uses across other parcels — moves that could require renegotiating financing, zoning, and incentive agreements.

Even so, developers say the broader ambition has not changed. Backup financing — including roughly $155 million in industrial revenue bonds — remains in place for the first phase, and the project’s design and leasing partners remain committed. How quickly Gateway South adapts will depend on whether the existing partners — Good Developments Group, Vault Partners, and Millstone Company — can retool the project’s economics and attract new tenants, even as they weigh the loss of historic fabric against potential for a re-imagined district.

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Header image: A massive fire last Friday at the Crunden-Martin Manufacturing Company warehouse building is still under investigation. Photo | NEXTSTL

Demolition of the Millennium Hotel marks the beginning of Cordish’s major redevelopment

Demolition is officially underway at the former Millennium Hotel site in downtown St. Louis, signaling the tangible start of a long-planned transformation of the 28-story complex. The project is being led by The Cordish Companies, which was selected earlier this year by the Gateway Arch Park Foundation.

At an estimated cost of $670 million, Cordish’s proposed redevelopment spans roughly 1.3 million square feet and is set to include a mix of upscale residential units, Class A office space, a food hall, public event space, and an outdoor amphitheater. The plan also calls for dedicated public amenities such as landscaping, pedestrian-friendly walkways, art installations, and possibly even a facility to house the Gateway Arch National Park’s archives.

The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority recently gave the green light for Cordish to proceed as developer, accelerating key pre-construction steps. The Gateway Arch Park Foundation, which holds ownership of the site, has coordinated the effort alongside several public and civic partners—including the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC), Greater St. Louis, Inc., and planning and design experts such as PGAV.

To carry out the demolition, the Foundation has contracted Spirtas Wrecking Company and Environmental Operations Inc., which completed remediation of hazardous materials before structural teardown began. The work is being done in phases: the central tower was tackled first, followed by the south tower, and ultimately the north tower.

Officials estimate the demolition process will take one to two years to fully clear the site. Once cleared, Cordish is expected to break ground on construction, though the precise timing for full development has not yet been publicly announced.

Beyond the physical redevelopment, the Gateway Arch Park Foundation is also launching a community-driven story-collecting initiative to preserve the memories tied to the former hotel. The effort is aimed at archiving oral histories, photographs, and personal reflections, linking the site’s past to its future.

Taken together, the project—backed by Cordish, the Gateway Arch Park Foundation, SLDC, Greater St. Louis, Inc., and planning partners—promises to reimagine a key downtown location. It aims not only to deliver commercial and residential value, but also to strengthen connections between the Gateway Arch, Ballpark Village, and the heart of downtown St. Louis.

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Header image: Spirtas Wrecking along with Environmental Operations Inc. begin demolition of the Millennium Hotel in Downtown St. Louis. Photo | The Gateway Arch Park Foundation

The Relocation of Anthem Signals New Life for St. Louis Office Market

On Monday, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield formally opened its new downtown St. Louis office, relocating approximately 500 employees into the Deloitte Building at 4th and Market. The move places a significant workforce at the core of the city’s business district and signals a strong vote of confidence in the downtown environment.

The relocation aligns with a broader shift in corporate real‑estate strategy, one where the office is being reimagined rather than discarded. Even as hybrid and remote work models become prevalent, organizations like Anthem are choosing to invest in high‑visibility, amenity‑rich urban settings. Moving into a modern office within downtown St. Louis rather than maintaining a dispersed suburban footprint reflects an understanding that companies still value physical workplace hubs that foster culture, collaboration, and connectivity.

From a commercial real estate perspective, this lease adds meaningful vitality to the local office market. The Deloitte Building spans roughly 260,000 square feet, and Anthem’s new space represents a significant tenant commitment of approximately 45,600 square feet. Because many firms have reduced footprint or remain cautious about long‑term leasing commitments, a move of this size exhibits market confidence and encourages landlords and developers to enhance building offerings.

Beyond the building itself, the ripple effects extend into the downtown economy. The arrival of 500 employees translates into expanded demand for nearby restaurants, retail stores, parking, transit, and support services. It strengthens the urban ecosystem and helps attract additional employers who seek access to a vibrant city centre, a talent‑friendly address, and proximity to amenities. With more corporate activity in the core, downtown becomes not just a workplace location but a destination.

While remote work continues to evolve, the office is no longer simply a place to house everyone every day. Instead, it becomes the environment where teams converge, innovate, and connect. Anthem’s move reflects this reality by choosing high‑quality space in a central location. For downtown St. Louis, the significance is clear: this is a tangible anchor tenant that can spur momentum, creating further leasing activity, encouraging building renewals, and affirming the city’s competitiveness in the post‑pandemic office era.

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Header image The Deloitte Building is now home to over 500 Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield employees. Photo | Sansone Group

St. Louis Considers a New Airport as Region Plans for Future Growth

The St. Louis region is at a pivotal moment in its aviation future, weighing whether to build a new airport or expand existing facilities. St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), the area’s primary hub, is already moving forward with a master plan that envisions a single consolidated terminal, improved road access, and modernized infrastructure, with the first phase of construction expected to begin in 2028 and full completion by 2031. Meanwhile, MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) is being positioned as a secondary hub and potential international gateway, with new customs and general aviation facilities under construction.

Local leaders say growing passenger demand and increasing aerospace and business travel justify a robust investment in aviation infrastructure. Studies project that modernizing the region’s airports could boost economic impact from roughly $27.5 billion and 102,000 jobs to more than $32 billion and 133,000 jobs by 2032. At the same time, the idea of a completely new airport has emerged. Jefferson County, Missouri, recently issued a request for qualifications for consultants to identify potential sites, though early statements indicate the facility would focus on corporate and business aviation rather than large-scale commercial service. Officials estimate that planning, site selection, and construction could take roughly a decade.

Planners note that several challenges must be addressed before any major project moves forward. Forecasting passenger and airline demand will be critical to avoid underused facilities, while selecting a site with adequate runway length, access to highways and public transit, and minimal environmental or land-use conflicts is equally important. Large-scale airport projects require phased construction and long-term planning, as demonstrated by STL’s ongoing master plan. Funding is another key consideration, likely involving a combination of federal, state, local, and private investment, along with cross-jurisdictional governance in a metro region that spans Missouri and Illinois. Community support will also be essential, given the potential impacts on noise, traffic, and surrounding neighborhoods.

For now, a layered strategy appears most practical: STL remains the main commercial hub, BLV expands as a secondary facility, and a new, smaller airport could serve business aviation. For area businesses and civic leaders, the focus is on creating infrastructure that enhances regional connectivity, supports global trade, and encourages economic growth. While details remain uncertain, the next decade is likely to shape St. Louis’ aviation landscape for generations.

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Header image: A rendering of a regional airport that could be similar to a new airport coming to the St. Louis area. Photo | VFLA Architects

Park Pacific Apartments in downtown St. Louis sell for $56.7 million

One of downtown St. Louis’ most recognizable mixed-use buildings, Park Pacific Apartments, has been sold for $56.73 million, signaling continued investor confidence in the city’s central corridor.

The 450,000 SF property at 1226 Olive St. was purchased Oct. 12 by GCP Pacific LLC from Park Pacific Leasing LLC, an entity tied to developer New + Found, which originally redeveloped the structure over a decade ago. The sale marks another milestone for the landmark building that helped anchor downtown’s residential resurgence.

Originally constructed in the 1920s as the Missouri Pacific Railroad headquarters, the 22-story Art Deco tower was transformed after decades of vacancy into a mixed-use hub featuring about 230 market-rate apartments, 31,000 SF of retail, 88,000 SF of office space, and a seven-story parking garage. Its historic boardrooms and walnut-paneled offices were preserved during the conversion, maintaining the building’s architectural character.

The $109 million redevelopment, completed by PARIC Construction and designed by The Lawrence Group, received state and federal historic tax credits and a city tax-increment financing package to support restoration efforts. Those public incentives continue to tie the project to downtown’s broader revitalization goals.

The property’s location — just off Tucker Boulevard near Washington Avenue — places residents and businesses within walking distance of restaurants, offices, and major entertainment venues. Its proximity and amenities have made it one of downtown’s most desirable addresses.

GCP Pacific LLC has not publicly disclosed future plans, but new ownership typically precedes operational or amenity upgrades. Potential enhancements to fitness facilities, common spaces, or retail offerings could follow as ownership evaluates opportunities to reposition the asset for evolving market demand.

The transaction reinforces investor confidence in St. Louis’ urban core, where several large historic redevelopment projects continue to attract capital. Park Pacific remains a bellwether property for downtown, blending preservation with modern living — and now entering a new chapter under fresh ownership.

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Header image: The Park Pacific Apartments located in Downtown St. Louis sell to GCP Pacific LLC for $56.73 million. Photo | .New+ Found

AIA St. Louis honors 2025 design award recipients for excellence in architecture and craft

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) St. Louis Chapter celebrated outstanding design achievement during its 2025 Design Awards, held at the Center of Contemporary Arts (COCA). The annual event recognizes exemplary projects in architecture, interiors, unbuilt work, small projects, drawings, and craft.

This year’s jury was led by distinguished professionals, including Maija Kreishman, FAIA, principal at Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, who chaired the Architecture and Unbuilt categories; Timothy Trotter, president of TROCOFAB, serving as Craft Jury Chair; and Perry Kulper, professor at the University of Michigan’s Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, who chaired the Drawing category.

ARCHITECTURE AWARDS

Distinguished Award – Social Progress

DOORWAYS Housing & Administration

Trivers

Client: DOORWAYS | General Contractor: BSI Constructors | MEP Engineer: G&W Engineering | Structural Engineer: KPFF Consulting Engineers | Civil Engineer: Civil Design, Inc. | Landscape Architect: Arbolope Studio | Photography: Sam Fentress; Serhii Chrucky / ESTO

Distinguished Award – Adaptive Reuse

Russ Burns Building – Clayco Home Office

Lamar Johnson Collaborative (LJC)

Client: Clayco, Inc. | General Contractor: Clayco, Inc. | Structural Engineer: Uzun + Case | Civil Engineer: Stock + Associates | Plumbing Engineer: G&W Engineering | Signage & Artwork: KO & Company | Custom Millwork: Martin Goebel | 3D Print Artwork: Printerior | Interior Plantings: Ambius | Photography: LJC; Eric Laignel

Honor Award

Market Center of the Ozarks

Patterhn Ives LLC

Client: Northwest Arkansas Food Systems | General Contractor: CDI Contractors | Civil & Landscape: Ecological Design Group | Structural Engineer: Martin/Martin Engineers | MEP Engineering: HSA Engineering | Lighting: H2LTG | Signage & Graphics: Design Ranch | Photography: Sam Fentress

Merit Award

SCAD River House

Mackey Mitchell Architects

Client: Savannah College of Art and Design | General Contractor: Clayco, Inc. | Landscape Architect: Mandel Design, LLC | Structural Engineer: Tharpe Engineering Group | Civil Engineer: Hussey Gay Bell | Mechanical/Electrical/Fire Protection: Salas O’Brien | Lighting: Power Design | Photography: Sam Fentress

Above: Interiors Merit Award winner- a warm and welcoming reception. 4300 E. Camelback by Lamar Johnson Collaborative. Photo | LJC

INTERIORS AWARDS

Honor Award

The Clover at Olive Crossing

HOK

Client: Keeley Properties & KEAT Properties | General Contractor: Keeley Construction | Furniture Dealer: Continua | Photographer: Alise O’Brien

Merit Award

Kings Hill | Brown & Crouppen

HOK

Client: Third Man Development | General Contractor: Paric Corporation | Structural Engineer: KPFF | MEP Engineer: Design-Build | Furniture: CI Select | Demountable Partitions: Maars Living Walls | Photography: Sam Fentress

Merit Award

4300 E. Camelback

LJC

Client: Clayco, Inc. | General Contractor: Stevens Leinweber Construction | MEP Engineer: Energy Systems Design | A/V Engineer: Coltrane Systems | Interior Design: Lamar Johnson Collaborative

UNBUILT AWARDS

Distinguished Award – Community Impact

“The Glade” – Steinberg Pavilion and Rink Reimagined

Christner Architects (Prime Architect) and Snow Kreilich Architects (Design Architect)

Client: Forest Park Forever | General Contractor: BSI Constructors | Landscape Architect: Hoerr Schaudt | Structural: KPFF | Civil: David Mason & Associates | Lighting: RBLD | Community Engagement: Vector Communications | Renderings: Snow Kreilich; Hoerr Schaudt

Honor Award

Caroline Residence

No Other Way

Client: Confidential

Merit Award

Powell Hall Renovation and Expansion

Christner Architects and Snøhetta (Design Architect)

Client: St. Louis Symphony Orchestra | General Contractor: BSI Constructors | Structural: KPFF | MEPFP: McClure Engineering | Civil: David Mason & Associates | Theatre Planning: Schuler Shook | Acoustics: Kirkegaard | Lighting: Reed Burkett | Renderings: Snøhetta

DRAWINGS AWARDS

Honor Award – Walls of Washington — AVV A

Honor Award – Of Earth, Water and Sky — Cody Heller

Merit Award – On an Open Field — Nneoma Asinugo

CRAFT AWARDS

Honor Award

Structural Brick Arches in Contemporary Chapel

HKW

Client: Saint Louis University | General Contractor: BSI Constructors | Falsework Contractor: BSI Constructors | Masonry Contractor: John Smith Masonry

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Header image: Architecture Distiguished Award winner for adaptive reuse. Russ Burns Building | Clayco home office. Photo | .LJC - credit: Eric Laignel

7th Street revitalization ushers in new era of connectivity and commercial growth

Leaders convened downtown to mark the completion of the 7th Street corridor project, a significant infrastructure upgrade linking Ballpark Village/Busch Stadium and Washington Avenue/America’s Center. The improvements include protected bike and pedestrian lanes, widened sidewalks, upgraded crosswalks, new lighting and trees, repaved roadway (Walnut to Washington), and enhanced traffic management systems.

Developed through a public-private partnership featuring the City of St. Louis, Greater St. Louis, Inc., SLDC, St. Louis Cardinals, Explore St. Louis, and local business investors, the effort also ties into the Brickline Greenway at Market Street to boost connectivity and foot traffic.

Project backers say the upgraded corridor will foster a safer, more welcoming environment that supports walking, biking, and street-level activation. As activity increases, they expect new demand in retail, offic,e and mixed-use commercial real estate, helping to catalyze redevelopment of underused properties. In a market where downtown has wrestled with office vacancies and the need for adaptive reuse, this improved infrastructure is poised to attract investor interest and support the conversion of dormant buildings into productive space.

Officials view the 7th Street project as a milestone in the broader downtown revitalization agenda — one that strengthens links among core destinations and lays groundwork for sustained real estate momentum.

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Header image: City leaders celebrating the completion of the 7th Street infrastructure upgrade project. Photo | .Greater St. Louis, Inc.

St. Louis Lambert International Airport to break ground on $115M airfield facility

St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) will break ground Monday, Oct 13th, on a $115 million airfield maintenance and operations facility, signaling the first major step toward a long-anticipated overhaul of the airport’s terminal infrastructure.

The 285,000 SF complex will replace nine outdated buildings currently scattered across the airport campus, some of which have been in use for more than half a century. Once complete, the new facility will centralize airfield operations, housing maintenance and equipment storage, snow-removal vehicles, materials warehousing, and other essential airport services under one roof.

The airfield project is part of STL’s broader West Airfield Program, which also includes the construction of a new deicing pad and supporting infrastructure. After the new maintenance facility is completed in late 2027, work will shift to redeveloping the existing campus into the deicing area. The move will improve aircraft turnaround efficiency, reduce taxi times, and streamline winter weather operations.

Funding for the project includes $20 million from the Federal Aviation Administration and $4.7 million from the Airport Infrastructure Grant program under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Additional financing will be supported through airport revenue bonds backed by airline fees.

Wright Construction Services will lead the project, with design and engineering oversight coordinated through airport management and its consultant team. Officials emphasized that the new airfield complex is a necessary precursor to the upcoming $3 billion terminal consolidation plan, which will eventually merge Terminals 1 and 2 into a single modern terminal with upgraded passenger amenities and operational efficiencies.

Airport leadership described the project as a foundational investment that will enhance reliability, sustainability, and long-term performance across STL’s airfield operations. As the city’s gateway for more than 15 million travelers annually, the improvements are expected to strengthen the airport’s competitiveness and support continued regional growth.

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Header image: St. Louis Lambert International Airport will soon have a new airfield maintenance and operations facility. Photo | St. Louis Lambert International Airport

New NGA campus signals a turning point for St. Louis’ geospatial economy

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency officially opened its new western headquarters in north St. Louis on Sept. 26, launching what regional leaders call the next phase of geospatial growth.

The $1.7 billion Next NGA West campus, located at Jefferson and Cass avenues, spans 97 acres and features a 700,000 SF main office building, parking garages, a visitor center, and supporting infrastructure. About 3,000 employees are expected to relocate from the agency’s current Soulard site by 2026.

The project, nearly a decade in the making, began with a 2016 site selection that positioned St. Louis as a key hub for geospatial intelligence. Construction started in 2019, and the campus is now seen as a catalyst for regional innovation, economic development, and national security.

Community and business leaders say the opening represents more than a new government facility. The campus is expected to strengthen the region’s geospatial sector, drawing investment, research, and entrepreneurial ventures. Workforce development programs, such as the GeoFutures Talent Initiative, aim to train analysts, engineers, and data scientists to support industry demand.

Economic impacts are also anticipated in the surrounding neighborhoods, where leaders hope new jobs, infrastructure improvements, and small business opportunities will follow. Local organizations have emphasized that inclusive growth will be critical for ensuring benefits extend beyond the campus gates.

With the opening, St. Louis is working to brand itself as a national leader in geospatial technology. Officials note the combination of federal investment, university partnerships, and private-sector momentum positions the region to attract talent and firms in remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.

The new facility marks a milestone in the NGA’s mission to deliver advanced geospatial intelligence, while providing the St. Louis region with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a globally recognized technology sector.

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Header image: Arial view of the newly opened National Geospacial-Intelligence Agencey in north St. Louis, Mo. Photo | NGA

Powell Hall reopens as Jack C. Taylor Music Center after $140 million renovation and expansion in St. Louis

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra has reopened Powell Hall following a two-year, $140 million renovation and expansion that modernizes the historic venue while preserving its renowned acoustics and architectural character.

Originally built in 1925 and converted into a symphony hall in 1968, Powell Hall has long been a cultural landmark. The latest project, now known collectively as the Jack C. Taylor Music Center, includes a 65,000 SF addition, expanded public amenities, improved accessibility, and enhanced backstage and rehearsal spaces.

The renovation was designed by Snøhetta as design architect and Christner Architects as architect of record, with acoustical consulting by Kirkegaard. BSI Constructors served as general contractor.

Upgrades include new lobbies, concession areas, elevators, restrooms, and terrace spaces, along with a state-of-the-art Education and Learning Center. Musicians benefit from modernized rehearsal areas, dressing rooms, and a new recording studio.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony in mid-September marked the completion, with civic leaders highlighting the project as both a cultural and economic catalyst for the city’s Grand Center Arts District. The opening celebration featured a performance led by Music Director Stéphane Denève, which showcased the hall’s refined acoustics.

The orchestra will launch its inaugural season in the renovated space Sept. 26–28 with a weekend of concerts, including world premieres and guest appearances. A free community open house is planned for Nov. 8, offering the public an opportunity to explore the reimagined venue.

Powell Hall’s transformation positions it as both a premier concert hall and a broader civic asset, ensuring its continued role at the center of St. Louis’s artistic and cultural life for decades to come.

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Header image: Exterior of Powell Hall at the Jack C. Taylor Music Center. Photo | St. Louis Symphony Orchestra credit: Sam Fentress

Barnes-Jewish opens Plaza West Tower on site of former Queeny Tower

Barnes-Jewish Hospital has completed a major chapter in its long-running campus renewal with the Plaza West Tower, a new 16-story patient care building rising where the aging Queeny Tower once stood. The 660,000 SF facility is designed to expand capacity for complex care, modernize inpatient workflows, and improve the experience for patients and families on Washington University’s medical campus.

Plaza West houses roughly 280 private inpatient rooms — 224 acute care and 56 intensive-care rooms — across seven inpatient floors, plus more than 100 surgical prep/recovery bays and an advanced imaging platform that includes MRI, CT, and interventional radiology suites. The tower also features family-focused amenities such as rooftop gardens, a two-story glass-enclosed lobby, a large family lounge with a business center and quiet rooms, and a new kitchen and cafeteria serving the south campus. BJC and WashU Medicine expect the building to relieve regional demand for specialized heart, vascular, and other high-acuity services.

The project was delivered as a design-build collaboration led by McCarthy Building Companies, which served as the design-build contractor and construction lead. CannonDesign served as architect and interior designer; BR+A provided consulting engineering; Thornton Tomasetti handled structural engineering; Castle Contracting led civil work; and landscape design was provided by DTLS. Early demolition and disentanglement work on the Queeny Tower site was notable for its complexity and was performed by firms experienced in live-campus demolition and utility relocation.

That integrated team employed modern health-care design approaches — private-room layouts to reduce infection risk, dedicated ICU floors, and finishes and acoustical strategies aimed at lowering noise and improving rest and recovery. The exterior vocabulary takes cues from neighboring campus buildings, pairing ultra-high performance concrete panels with a limestone podium and a prominent glass projection that visually connects the hospital to nearby Forest Park.

Construction milestones included a topping-out ceremony in mid-2024 and phased site work that preserved adjacent clinical operations while crews demolished the obsolete Queeny Tower and built the new facility. Local and regional contractors handled civil, utility, and site logistics to manage one of the largest single capital investments on the campus in recent years. BJC and WashU Medicine moved forward with a careful commissioning and staffing plan to bring the tower online for patients in late 2025.

Plaza West is the latest visible sign of a decade-long campus renewal effort to replace aging infrastructure with facilities built for contemporary care delivery, research-informed clinical models, and the patient-centered expectations of the communities the medical campus serves.

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Header image: The newly completed 16-story Plaza West Tower replacing the aging Queeny Tower at Barnes-Jewish Hospital is set to open in October. Image | Barnes-Jewish Hospital

Mansion House Apartments: a mid-century icon repositioned for what’s next

Rising just west of Gateway Arch National Park, the 29-story Mansion House Apartments at 300 N. Fourth St. are a signature piece of St. Louis modernism. Conceived in the mid-1960s by the firm Schwarz & Van Hoefen—whose principals Hari Van Hoefen and Richard Henmi helped define the city’s International Style—the complex introduced glass-and-steel residential living to downtown and anchored a larger “superblock” of mid-century buildings and plazas.

Today, Mansion House is in the midst of a major repositioning. Ownership entity Coral Mountain Owner LLC, which purchased the property in November 2021 for $29.3 million, is advancing a $169 million renovation program. City documents designate Coral Mountain as the redeveloper and note PARIC Corporation as the general contractor, with work spanning apartments, rooftop and pool, building systems, and the public promenade. The plan retains the 415-unit mix while modernizing finishes and amenities to meet current renter expectations.

Public-private alignment underpins the capital stack and execution. The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority (LCRA) approved the redeveloper designation, and earlier filings tied to the property referenced local incentives, such as multi-year tax abatements and sales-tax exemptions on construction materials—standard tools for large-scale urban reinvestments. These mechanisms, together with private equity, position the project to absorb significant capital expenditures while improving building performance.

The business plan emphasizes upside over disruption. With a substantial on-site parking supply exceeding 550 spaces and a riverfront location steps from the Arch grounds, the asset can capture demand from downtown employers, civic anchors, and a growing base of destination entertainment. Pro formas in city materials anticipate rent growth after renovation, reflecting the premium urban residents place on contemporary amenities and energy-efficient systems. Importantly, the scope maintains a stable unit count, supporting continuity for the downtown housing pipeline while enhancing quality.

Mansion House’s refresh also preserves a notable chapter of St. Louis design history. By rehabilitating an emblematic International Style tower rather than replacing it, the project aligns with broader downtown goals: retain architectural character, attract new residents, and expand the taxable base through long-term value creation. For investors and partners, the opportunity is clear—deliver a differentiated, amenity-rich product in a landmark location while leveraging established city incentives to de-risk a complex urban redevelopment.

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Header image: The 29-story Mansion House Apartments await the next phase of life with a $169 million renovation on the horizon. Image | The Cultural Landscape Foundation - credit: Adam Smith (2018)

Varro opens new headquarters and strengthens its St. Louis roots

On August 21, 2025, Varro Life Sciences celebrated the grand opening of its new headquarters and research facility in the Cortex Innovation District (CID) of St. Louis. This milestone marks a significant chapter in the company's journey, reflecting its deep-rooted connection to the community and its commitment to advancing public health through innovative technology.

Founded in 2020 as Y2X Life Sciences, Varro has rapidly evolved into a leader in biosensor technology. The company's inception was deeply intertwined with St. Louis' rich history of scientific research and innovation. Collaborations with esteemed institutions, such as Washington University in St. Louis, have been pivotal in developing Varro's groundbreaking technologies, including the micro-immunoelectrode—a semiconductor-based biosensor capable of detecting airborne pathogens like COVID-19, influenza, and RSV.

Varro's expansion into the CID is more than a business decision; it's a testament to the company's dedication to its hometown. The new $42.5 million facility not only accelerates the development of life-saving diagnostics but also serves as a catalyst for local economic growth. The company has already created 33 new jobs, with plans to continue hiring in the coming months.

Varro's open-source approach to technology development exemplifies its commitment to community empowerment. By making its biosensor technology freely available, Varro encourages global collaboration, enabling researchers and developers worldwide to build upon and enhance its innovations.

Varro's presence in the CID highlights St. Louis' growing status as a hub for biotechnology and life sciences. The district's collaborative environment, supported by entities such as the Missouri Department of Economic Development and the St. Louis Regional Chamber, provides fertile ground for startups like Varro to thrive. This synergy not only fosters innovation but also attracts investment and talent to the region.

As Varro continues to advance its mission of disrupting disease transmission, its impact extends far beyond the walls of its new facility. By investing in local talent, embracing open-source principles, and fostering global collaboration, Varro is not just advancing science—it's building a healthier, more connected world.

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Header image: A rendering highlighting the Cortex Innovation District along Forest Park Ave. in St. Louis' Central West End is the home to Varro Life Sciences new HQ. Image | Clayco

Green Street charts a $600 million vision for Midtown St. Louis

Green Street Real Estate Ventures is preparing a $600 million development near the historic Armory site in Midtown, setting the stage for one of the city’s most significant private investments. The company recently submitted a “zoning only” application with the city, an initial step that allows officials to review land use and overall scope before detailed plans are filed.

The proposed project, in partnership with THO Investments, led by developer Rod Thomas, is envisioned as a multi-phase destination designed to complement the ongoing revitalization of Midtown. While specifics have not yet been announced, the investment size points to a blend of entertainment venues, residential living, retail, and hospitality. Such a mix would extend the momentum of nearby districts that have seen major growth in recent years.

Positioned just west of the Armory building, the site has the potential to connect surrounding cultural, educational, and research corridors with new amenities for residents and visitors. The development is expected to move forward in stages, allowing infrastructure and vertical construction to align with market demand and community input.

If realized, the $600 million project would not only reshape the area but also reinforce St. Louis’ standing as a city attracting ambitious, mixed-use developments designed to spur activity, strengthen neighborhoods, and draw long-term investment.

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Header image The Armory project adjacent to a $600 million development proposed by Green Street Real Estate Ventures. Image credit: Sophie Proe / St. Louis Public Radio

Two new hotels set to revitalize long-stalled Riverpointe development in St. Charles

For more than a decade, the Riverpointe development along the Missouri River in St. Charles lay largely dormant, despite early enthusiasm for its promising vision. Envisioned as a sweeping, mixed-use waterfront transformation spanning approximately 82 to 120 acres between Interstate 70 and Main Street, the project was drafted by Lamar Johnson Collaborative, which conceived a vibrant plan featuring a lake spanning 30 to 40 acres, office and residential towers, a hotel, riverfront retail and dining, a central plaza, landscaped townhomes, and a pedestrian bridge connecting to Bangert Island, all knit together by a rebuilt Katy Trail and an active Riverwalk promenade.

In early phases, CRG, Clayco’s development division, assumed the lead for multiple phases, advancing critical infrastructure work such as grading, filling, utility extensions, new roads, sidewalks, and trail elevations above the 500-year floodplain—ensuring the land is prepared for future construction.

The city, in coordination with the Army Corps of Engineers, addressed flood concerns by elevating more than 100 acres, relocating roadways, creating roundabouts, and enabling the project to move forward on firm ground.

Still, development stalled. Fragmented land ownership, lingering regulatory caution, and financing hurdles have slowed vertical construction. However, early progress, including the opening of Chicken N Pickle —a signature entertainment venue combining pickleball courts, dining, and social space—demonstrates the potential for Riverpointe to thrive.

Above: A conceptual rendering of the walkable shopping areas at the mixed-use Riverpointe development in St. Charles, Mo. Image | Lamar Johnson Collaborative

Now, renewed momentum is on the horizon. The city reports that two hotels are confirmed for construction within the Riverpointe district, injecting fresh confidence into the project’s future—particularly because lodging is central to transforming the area into a full-service destination that supports diners, shoppers, and even possible corporate tenants. Though developers and branding have not yet been announced, hotel construction signals that the site’s long-dormant potential may finally be unlocked.

Underpinning this revitalization is a solid design and technical foundation. Lamar Johnson Collaborative remains the principal planner and designer of the master vision—crafting a walkable, active main street, public plazas, and integrated green space that revitalizes the riverfront.

Clayco continues to serve as construction manager, alongside CRG as developer, ensuring continuity from master planning through physical delivery. The city itself remains a committed partner, having cleared ownership barriers, working on flood mitigation, and facilitating infrastructure necessary to support the burgeoning district.

The impact of the hotels advancing beyond planning is significant. Lodging is both a destination generator and a catalyst for commercial and residential activity—drawing visitors, stimulating retail and food service, and encouraging new residential interest. This, in turn, makes the ambitious goals of Riverpointe—4,000 new jobs, an estimated $1.5 billion in economic activity, and an influx of roughly 1 million annual visitors—much more achievable.

With foundational elements in place—flood mitigation, reimagined road and trail systems, phased infrastructure, and adaptive design—and now hospitality anchors confirmed, Riverpointe is poised to reemerge as a lively waterfront neighborhood that connects nightlife, commerce, and nature. As designers and contractors refine the details and cranes return to the skyline, Riverpointe could be set to deliver on its long-held promise: a vibrant riverfront destination rooted in thoughtful urbanism, thoughtful design, and collaborative execution.

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Header image: The long awaited Riverpointe development just off I-70 in St. Charles, Mo. may have life once again. Image | Lamar Johnson Collaborative

Healthcare Real Estate in St. Louis Rises High at MWM Summit

St. Louis' thriving healthcare real estate market was the focus of a robust panel discussion at MetroWire Media’s STL Healthcare Summit on June 19. Brought together by sponsors that included Spirtas, Intelica, Kadean, The Lawrence Group, and Carmody MacDonald, the event brought together top voices in development, architecture, construction, and healthcare operations for a conversation centered on innovation, challenges, and what’s next for the region.

Moderated by industry veteran Glenn B. Guenther of Guenther Realty Advisory Services, the panel featured:

• Dillon Corr, Director of Client Development at Kadean Construction

• Brad Davis, Business Development Manager at Musick Construction

• Ryan King, VP of Development at The Lawrence Group

• Allison Mendez, Principal at CannonDesign

From hospital expansions to new outpatient models, panelists agreed: St. Louis is in the midst of a healthcare development boom.

Key Themes and Takeaways:

1. Outpatient is Outpacing: Brad Davis emphasized the surge in outpatient care as providers seek smaller, more accessible footprints across suburban markets. These satellite sites are transforming how and where care is delivered.

2. Flexibility is the Future: Allison Mendez highlighted the demand for agile design, citing CannonDesign’s work on behavioral health and academic medical centers. "We’re designing for uncertainty,” she noted, as post-pandemic shifts continue to reshape both staff and patient needs.

3. Speed and Cost Pressures: Dillon Corr shared how design-assist and early collaboration are helping clients meet aggressive timelines without sacrificing quality. Inflation and labor shortages still pose hurdles, but creative scheduling and prefab solutions are helping bridge the gap.

4. Urban Investment Continues: Ryan King spoke to the value of reinvesting in central corridors, pointing to The Lawrence Group’s work on historically significant sites. Community engagement remains a key driver in these developments.

5. Collaboration is Key: Across the board, panelists emphasized the power of early partnerships. When health systems, architects, and contractors align early, outcomes improve—both financially and operationally.

The event kicked off with a packed networking hour, where leaders across real estate, construction, and healthcare converged to make new connections and spark fresh ideas.

With healthcare remaining one of the most resilient asset classes in CRE, the panel underscored both the challenges and promise ahead for St. Louis. Regulatory changes, shifting demographics, and evolving care models may require constant adaptation—but the region’s ecosystem is more than ready to deliver.

As Guenther aptly put it in his closing: “This is a city that knows how to build. When we come together, we solve big problems.”

$50M St. Louis Port Expansion

In a major boost for St. Louis' freight and logistics sector, Ingram Marine Group has unveiled plans for further investment toward a $60 million port operation a mile and a half north of the Arch. The City of St. Louis Port Authority has invested some $30M in federal, state, and port funds since 2012 in the Municipal River Terminal. 

Ingram's $30M in upcoming projects there and at the Tyler Street grain facility will enhance terminal capacity, improve barge operations, and strengthen St. Louis' role as a critical inland freight hub along the Mississippi River.

Ingram is one of the nation’s largest and most established barge and marine transportation companies. Its investment will  improve cargo handling efficiency, increase freight throughput, and optimize barge loading and unloading processes.

By far the busiest port on the inland waterway, St. Louis remains a vital link in the national supply chain due to its strategic location at the convergence of major highways, all the Class One rail lines, and three rivers. Ingram will expand to two unit-train capacity to accommodate larger volumes of agricultural commodities, industrial materials, and bulk freight moving through the region.

The port improvements are part of a broader effort to strengthen the Midwest’s competitiveness in freight and logistics. The project is anticipated to generate economic activity both during construction and long-term operations, while supporting job creation across the region’s transportation, logistics, and warehousing sectors.

STL Healthcare Summit 2025: Leaders to Discuss Healthcare Development

The momentum is building for the MWM STL Healthcare Summit, happening June 19 — and you won’t want to miss it. This exclusive event brings together St. Louis' top developers, architects, healthcare leaders, and CRE professionals to dive into one of the city’s most active sectors: healthcare real estate.

From major hospital expansions to new outpatient facilities and life science hubs, healthcare continues to fuel growth across the St. Louis market. Our expert panel will explore the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping this evolving landscape.

The evening kicks off with happy hour networking, followed by a dynamic panel moderated by Glenn B. Guenther (Guenther Realty Advisory Services), with featured speakers Ryan King (The Lawrence Group), Dillon Corr (Kadean Construction), Allison Mendez (CannonDesign), and Brad Davis (Musick Construction).

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for companies looking to connect with the region’s most active decision-makers in healthcare CRE.

Spots are filling fast — secure your seat today and be part of the conversation driving healthcare development forward in St. Louis. Looking forward to seeing you all there!