Hulu, and Disney.The project’s location next to Spirit of St. Louis Airport—a general aviation airport with U.S. Customs facilities—was a key factor in the company’s decision to invest in Chesterfield. “The airport offers direct international access for private and corporate jets,” Hurt notes. “That’s incredibly appealing to global companies and entertainers who want to come and go discreetly.” A $2 BILLION DOWNTOWN TRANSFORMATION At the core of Chesterfield’s future is a monumental $2 billion downtown revitalization, led by developer TSG (The Staenberg Group) and guided by the city’s vision for sustainable mixed-use growth. Located on the former Chesterfield Mall site, the 90-acre redevelopment will transform the area into a vibrant urban center combining residential, retail, office, and public park space. Plans call for more than 1 million square feet of office space, 600,000 square feet of retail, and over 2,400 housing units—a mix of apartments, townhomes, and condominiums designed to appeal to every demographic. “Michael Staenberg, the project’s developer, is as creative as he is business-minded,” says Hurt. “He’s designing this as a true live-work-play environment— with a three-acre park at its heart, surrounded by art installations, cafés, retail, and residential spaces.” Assistant City Administrator Elliot Brown adds that the project is being financed through a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district, approved by City Council to support infrastructure development. “Demolition is now complete,” Brown says. “The next phase is all about infrastructure—building roads, utilities, and the park—before we market lots for commercial and residential development.” The city is also ensuring that the downtown redevelopment complements the nearby 55-acre Central Park, which includes the Chesterfield Amphitheater, athletic facilities, and the planned Aquatic Center, expected to go to ballot next year. EXPANDING HOUSING AND LIVABILITY As across the nation, housing demand in Chesterfield continues to rise. Developers are responding with new subdivisions and infill projects to meet the needs of a growing population. “Everybody wants to live here,” Brown says.“We have developers bringing in plans all the time.” In addition to the downtown residential component, 45 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11 CHESTERFIELD, MO
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