In St. Louis, the greenery along South Grand, a busy city corridor, has appeared neglected this summer, prompting residents to seek answers. The issue centers on nine concrete medians between I-44 and Arsenal Street, where many planters have become overgrown and some plants have withered due to insufficient maintenance. Responsibility for these plots is unclear, as the City of St. Louis does not maintain median vegetation, leaving neighborhood groups to manage them. Various organizations, including the Tower Grove Community Development Corporation and the South Grand CID, had previously collaborated to fund a three-year maintenance plan costing around $30,000 annually. However, Rachel Witt, director of the South Grand CID, noted that the funds were insufficient to sustain the upkeep. Although the CID contributed to the planters, they lie outside its boundaries, highlighting the visual appeal they bring to the business district. Witt emphasized the need for city leaders to establish a funding system for greenery along city infrastructure, especially with more medians being added. Discussions are underway with Alderwoman Daniela Velazquez to explore cost-effective alternatives, such as low-maintenance plants or public art, to enhance the medians.
Are neighborhood groups exploring new options for costly planters on South Grand?
