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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Donna Andrews or Rebecca Rodgers
St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission
(314) 421-1023 or pr@explorestlouis.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Delmar Loop in University City and St. Louis
Named Great Street By American Planning Association
Honor Recognizes City’s Renaissance
St. Louis -- October 8, 2007-- The American Planning Association (APA) has selected the Loop as one of 10 Great Streets in America because of the sustained efforts of local business, government, and the community to achieve successful physical and economic revitalization.
The Loop, located in University City and St. Louis, is a vibrant six block area with more than 140 boutiques, specialty shops, eclectic restaurants, galleries, live entertainment and more. It draws its name from the trolley turnaround or “loop” that used to be at the far end of the commercial district. Many homes and apartments in the Loop were built in 1900 just prior to the St. Louis World’s Fair. A major section of the area is designated as a Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.
“St. Louis is honored to receive this recognition from the APA. Today’s vibrant Loop neighborhood is known for its diverse, multicultural population. It’s not only a wonderful place to live, but a popular destination for visitors because it offers a fun, authentic St. Louis experience,” says Kathleen “Kitty” Ratcliffe, President of the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission.
APA celebrates the first 10 Great Streets and 10 Great Neighborhoods designated through its new national program, Great Places in America. Launched last spring, Great Places in America celebrates places of exemplary character, quality, and planning. Places are selected annually and represent the gold standard of communities. The designated neighborhoods and streets are defined by several characteristics, including good design, functionality, sustainability, and community involvement. Through Great Places in America, the APA recognizes that great streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces are the essential building blocks of all great communities.
“What makes the Loop matchless is the diversity of 45 award-wining restaurants, 22 clothing boutiques, 14 entertainment venues and movies, 10 galleries, 22 unique stores – that YOU WON’T FIND ELSE WHERE,” says Joe Edwards, President of the Delmar Loop Special Business District and Blueberry Hill co-owner. “Our business owners have achieved the American Dream! They’re men, women, Blacks, Whites, Asians, and Hispanics who are building and owning businesses – this is the way it should be.”
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