Washington Avenue is a remarkable and historic avenue in St. Louis. It has many terrific attractions and sights. At the turn of the 20th century, Washington Avenue used to be a breathtaking canyon of rich brick buildings with unparalleled architectural beauty. Manufacturers of shoes, clothing, and fashion practiced their trade here.
This was a prosperous time for these manufacturers with goods in high demand. St. Louis and the nation were expanding and growing at an shocking rate. Washington Avenue was the portrayal of an active metropolis. You would see people stroll along the sidewalks with their fashionable clothing and accessories, including striking turn of the century hats, bustles, and parasols, whilst window-shopping for the chic and new goods of the day.
This was the home of the famous garment district that always garners attention in any city. A growing printing industry was also beginning to blossom at this time. All in all, Washington Avenue was quickly becoming a hot spot in St. Louis.
These days, Washington Avenue is transformed into a whole new phenomenon, being reinvented as a terrific neighborhood of residential lofts, galleries, nightclubs and various attractions that are attractive to a great demographic of youth and families. It’s quickly becoming a St. Louis hot spot with wonderful architecture and commerce.
Just as a great boom happened on Washington Avenue at the turn of the 20th century, the second boom began at the turn of the 21st century. Plans were set in motion following the Washington Avenue Streetscape Project. Funding was provided in the form of $4 million from the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, and $13 million from the Missouri Dept. of Transportation enhancement program.
Included improvements from the design plans by the Washington Avenue Streetscape Project were to the lighting, a plaza, trees, and wider sidewalks. These revivals included parts of Washington Avenue from Tucker to 18th Street. Thanks to these improvements, Washington Avenue has become a wonderful place to shop and get together with friends. Retailers and restaurants are taking in more income than ever, as people are frequent their businesses more often.
Upon seeing the great potential for income and expansion of their businesses, new businesses are seeking to buy retail space in this area of St. Louis. Lots of people enjoy the updated streets and the fun architecture that serves as a reminder of an older era in St. Louis history. For instance, there is the P.T. Barnett’s Spanish mission style building on 3207 Washington Ave. This is a great example of locations in St. Louis where the old intertwines with the new and creates fresh ideas for business and expansion.
As you can see, the time to live and work on Washington Avenue is now! Families, businesses, and individuals are all seeing the great possibilities St. Louis has to offer. You should also do the same. If you are a small business owner or are just looking for the next hip place to live in St. Louis, check out Washington Ave.
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