North of Delmar
"Building Community. Creating Momentum "
Opportunities on the Horizon
This month brought exciting developments for the Wells-Goodfellow community. The Urban League met with key city and civic leaders to discuss partnerships that could accelerate neighborhood revitalization. Under the proposal, SLDC would fund stabilization and transfer the property for redevelopment, which could be a game-changer for the neighborhood’s commercial corridor.
From Planning to Action
We are moving forward on multiple fronts:
Scouting Program - Discussions are underway to bring a scouting initiative to Pierre Laclede Academy in 2025, providing youth with leadership skills, outdoor experiences, and community engagement opportunities.
Covenant House Outreach - Planning continues for a housing and services facility for unhoused teens in Wells-Goodfellow, with land ownership options currently being explored.
Neighborhood Signage - Design work is in progress for new community signs to foster identity, pride, and wayfinding throughout the neighborhood.
“Trash to Treasure” Program - Our creative reuse project with Craft Alliance and Pierre Laclede Academy is gaining momentum, with past events inspiring even greater participation.
Long-Term Funding - Work has begun to identify sustainable funding streams to support these programs for years to come.
Looking Further Ahead
North of Delmar’s “doing while planning” approach continues to guide our efforts. In addition to short-term wins, we are laying the groundwork for:
A Community Center - Discussions with property owners and potential partners are in early stages, with the vision of offering job training, health services, and cultural programming under one roof.
Business Start-ups and Job Training - We are exploring ways to attract new businesses to MLK Drive and create pathways to employment for local residents.
Housing and Infrastructure - Early planning with PGAV for housing development is underway, along with potential collaborations on transportation, beautification, and smart technology solutions.
Six Areas of Impact in Action
Our mission continues to focus on six interconnected areas shaping neighborhood vibrancy:
Healthcare - Plans for a school-based medical clinic at Pierre Laclede Academy are on track for Fall 2025, with initial funding secured for the first year. Long-term expansion to serve the broader community remains a priority.
Housing - Preparations with Covenant House to address youth homelessness are advancing. Area cleanup efforts have already begun.
Transportation and Infrastructure - Neighborhood signage plans are in development, and connectivity solutions like WiFi and transit enhancements are being explored.
Arts, Recreation and Beautification - “Trash to Treasure” is transforming public spaces and sparking creativity among residents.
Education and Employment - The scouting program initiative and early talks with St. Louis Community College are creating new learning and career pathways.
Workforce Development and Business Growth - Feasibility work continues for exploring potential sites for future economic development.
Community Food Celebration - Details will be shared soon for an upcoming neighborhood food event. We look forward to seeing neighbors, partners, and friends come together for good food and great conversation.