St. Louis, MO, October 28, 2009 - The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded a $475,000 grant to St. Louis County Economic Council for the planning and design of the new Lemay community center in south St. Louis County. U.S. Senator Christopher "Kit" Bond secured the funds as part of HUD’s Economic Development Initiative awards program in the 2009 omnibus appropriations bill.
"We are extremely grateful for Senator Kit Bond’s continued support," said St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley. "The Lemay and South County communities are looking forward to having a place where they can gather for recreation and social activities. What’s more, the community center will create much-needed jobs and spur on other economic activity in the surrounding area."
The new 30,000-square-foot, LEED-certified facility will incorporate various programming elements including a gymnasium, fitness space, multi-purpose rooms, and indoor track. An outdoor aquatic area also is part of the plans. The recommended location of the community center will be located at the intersection of S. Broadway and Kingston Drive at the northern end of Jefferson Barracks Park.
"U.S. Senator Kit Bond has been a huge proponent in providing funds to jumpstart economic development and job creation in our area," said St. Louis County Economic Council President & CEO Denny Coleman. "We are thankful for all he has helped us accomplish in St. Louis County and beyond."
Pinnacle Entertainment, developer of River City Entertainment Complex in Lemay, is providing additional funding for the community center through its contractual agreement with the St. Louis County Port Authority and St. Louis County.
"The Lemay community, Chamber of Commerce and Lemay Development Corporation are so appreciative of the support we’re receiving from our government officials and the Economic Council. The grant money will be instrumental in furthering the design and pre-construction costs of this important facility," said Dan Berra, president of the Lemay Chamber of Commerce and vice president of Lemay Development Corporation. This center will provide a full range of affordable services from after school programs to family activities to daytime programs for our seniors."
About St. Louis County Economic Council
Founded in 1984, SLCEC is a not-for-profit economic development organization responsible for creating high-quality business and employment opportunities for long-term diversified growth throughout St. Louis County and region. SLCEC oversees several local and regional economic development programs including World Trade Center Saint Louis, various loan programs, small business incubators, business development and retention services, and community redevelopment. |
