The Community Development Administration (CDA) has directed a substantial infusion of funds toward bolstering affordable housing projects in St. Louis through nearly $3 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) supplemental awards. These strategic investments are tagged for existing ARPA-backed projects within the city, with a clear goal: expedite the process to bring more housing units to fruition while making certain every ARPA dollar earmarked for the community is put to use before the 2026 deadline, when unspent resources must be returned to the federal government, according to the City of St. Louis.
Eight housing developments were selected to receive the supplemental funding totaling $2,995,726.00. Each recipient had to navigate a competitive process, showcasing their project's eligibility, need, and merit. Notably, awards ranged from $30,000 for the West End Court V project's four units, up to $700,000 granted to the 4700 Labadie undertaking by Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Housing Corp for another four units, in a clear push to diversify the scope of the housing impact across various communities in St. Louis.
Critical to the initiative's success, funding allocations were decided upon with an eye towards both immediate and long-term housing needs within the urban landscape. The supported projects, as detailed on the city's official website, include the conversion of the Baden School into 50 residences, with $500,000 in supplemental aid the allocation to the Tower Grove Neighborhoods CDC's Crossroads project which will transform 4900 Gravois Avenue into 80 living spaces, fueled by a boost of $375,000.
Organizations like Haven Recovery Homes LLC and Rise Community Development also secured significant funding for their respective projects. The former is set to enhance 7609–11 S. and 7617–19 S. Broadway with eight units through a $359,540 award, whereas, the latter will take the helm on revamping scattered sites in Old North, Gravois Park, and Dutchtown by adding 33 units, made possible through a $441,078 injection of financial support.
The CDA's approach confirms a broad commitment to community development, optimizing the efficiency of ARPA funds by reinforcing the foundation of projects that are already in progress throughout the City of St. Louis. As these projects move forward, they represent tangible steps towards addressing the affordability crisis that grips not only the city but the nation at large. More detailed information and a full breakdown of the awarded funds can be found on the City of St. Louis' official site.
