Economic & Housing Development

The CID Economic and Housing Development Programs enhance the value and vitality of downtown by attracting and retaining businesses, supporting job growth and expanding the residential population within the District.

Market Research and Analysis / Data Collection & Distribution

The primary focus of CID Economic Development work is to serve as a lead source of

information on downtown and the District. Through direct research, collaboration and outside resources the CID generates, collects, organizes and distributes data on downtown buildings, businesses, workers and residents. Economic & Housing

Development produces information for the annual Progress Report, Housing Reports, conducts bi-annual residential, office and market-wide surveys and maintains an interactive website for distribution of all of our market data.

 

FACT:  The CID responds to over 300 information requests annually.

 

Office Recruitment & Retention

The CID networks with city and state government, developers, property owners, businesses and brokers to identify, facilitate and support opportunities for retention, recruitment and job growth. The CID tracks leases and space inventory, provides on-line searches and manages the newly formed Downtown Economic Development Council (DEDC) dedicated to expanding marketing and peer–to-peer communication to support business development.

 

Retail/Restaurant/Services Recruitment & Retention

The CID works with developers, building owners, brokers, retailers and business prospects to support the growth and success of retail, restaurant and services within the District. The CID managed the implementation of a Downtown Retail Strategy that included a targeted leasing plan, devoted resources for recruitment, and collaboration with the city of St. Louis on a city funded $450,000 Forgivable Loan Program.

 

FACT:  Since 2003, over 100 street level shops, restaurants and services have opened representing over 350,000 sf of new businesses. This includes 20 businesses who received direct funding through the Forgivable Loan Program.

 

Residential Marketing

The CID coordinates the Downtown Living Tours, develops and funds targeted advertising and collateral materials and offers an on-line database with information on downtown living. Our website includes the opportunity to search for rental and for sale housing (including re-sales through a partnership with the St. Louis Asso.of Realtors).

 

Developer & Investor Recruitment

A carry over service from the previous CID management plan, direct recruitment of

developers and investors has not required a formal program. However, the CID works

continually with developers and investors to provide market data that assists with their

decisions related to development and/or investment within the District.

 

For more information on Economic & Housing Development contact Kevin Farrell at 314-436-6500, ext. 239 click here