OUR VISION:
A NETWORK OF SACRED SPACES ANCHORING THE VILLE
The Cultural Blvd is a network of public infrastructure enhancements that anchor a culturally-rooted and vibrant MLK corridor, connect The Ville’s most sacred spaces, and support prosperity in the Black community.
THE FIVE PILLARS
“If you want to go far, go together.”
Using a collective impact model, 4theVille’s Cultural Blvd Project cultivates a range of disciplines through collaboration to develop better ideas and holistic impact. We use these Five Pillars to guide us and make the process accessible and relatable to all those involved and impacted.
COMMUNITY
Community comes from individuals who work together to create something whole. They’re able to reduce disparities in wealth, education, and healthcare while advocating for policies and uplift the community at large. Through participatory governance, civil engagement, and collaborative partnerships, it fosters divers representation and accountability.
FOUNDATION
Infrastructure sustains daily life, economic growth, and well-being through transportation, utilities, and connectivity. Well-planned systems enhance safety, resilience, and equity, ensuring communities remain functional, connected, and adaptable. Investing in modern, sustainable, and inclusive infrastructure ensures that communities remain functional, connected, and adaptable to future challenges.
CULTIVATE
Cultivating ecology and habitat for a community involves actively nurturing and maintaining natural environments to support biodiversity, sustainability, and resistance. By fostering healthy habitats, communities can strengthen local ecosystems, promote environmental stewardship, and ensure long-term ecological balance for future generations.
GROWTH
Economic development drives job creation, improves living standards, and fosters financial stability. A strong local economy attracts investment, supports entrepreneurship, and enhances public services, while sustainable growth reduces poverty and builds resilience for long-term prosperity.and improves the overall quality of life for residents.
CULTURE
Cultural identity is essential to a community as it shapes its values, traditions, sense of belonging, social cohesion and collective resistance. It connects individuals to their heritage and enriches the St. Louis community. Embracing cultural diversity promotes mutual understanding, inclusivity, and innovation, helping communities thrive while maintaining their unique identities.
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY IMAGINATION
The Cultural Boulevard Project is committed to building a transformation experience rooted in community voice and imagination. Through every step of the project, 4theVille will seek community input and endorsement of iterative improvements. The result will be a vibrant network of public spaces connecting The Ville, Vandeventer, Greater Ville, Lewis Place, Kingsway East, and Fountain Park across the MLK corridor.
REPORTS
ULI Technical Assistance Panel Report
Real estate, public finance and infrastructure recommendations to catalyze transformation of the Dr. Martin Luther King Drive corridor.
Trailnet Mobility Infrastructure Report
Study of infrastructure challenges in The Ville community, and recommended improvements
to improve pedestrian safety.
AFNA Public Park Design Concepts
Summary of pop-up park engagement and design concepts for public spaces along the MLK corridor by Washington University architecture students.
MAKING PROGRESS
TINA TURNER MURAL
Working with a MLK corridor business owner, 4theVille, St. Louis Shakespeare Festival, and Kranzberg Arts Foundation have commissioned local Black artists to create a mural of Tina Turner. Installation is in progress!
ARTHUR ASHE PLAZA
4theVille is developing conceptual designs to begin a capital campaign for public amenity enhancements and interpretation installations that will honor Sumner High tennis history and the legacies of Arthur Ashe and Richard Hudlin. Conceptual Design in progress!
