The Clinton-Peabody complex, a historic public housing community in St. Louis, recently marked a pivotal moment with the groundbreaking of its $35 million first phase of redevelopment. This project, a collaboration between the St. Louis Housing Authority (SLHA) and Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH), aims to revitalize the area with modern, mixed-income housing and improved community infrastructure. The ceremony, held on July 17, 2026, signifies the culmination of extensive planning and resident engagement, setting the stage for a multi-year transformation.
Built in 1942, Clinton-Peabody is recognized as the oldest public housing development within the St. Louis Housing Authority’s portfolio, covering approximately 24 acres in the Near Southside neighborhood. Over the decades, the complex faced challenges with aging infrastructure and deteriorating conditions, prompting a resident-informed decision to demolish existing buildings and construct new, modern housing. The comprehensive redevelopment is ultimately projected to involve an investment of approximately $100 million, creating between 350 and 400 mixed-income units.
The initial $35 million phase focuses on constructing 89 new energy-efficient apartments across three buildings. These units will offer a mix of one, two, and three bedrooms, catering to households with varying income levels, including those at or below 60% of the Area Median Income, alongside market-rate units. Half of these new apartments are specifically designated for existing Clinton-Peabody residents, ensuring continuity and honoring the community’s long-standing population. The design incorporates best practices in sustainability, trauma-informed care, and universal design, with a planned completion date in early winter 2028.
Latasha Barnes, Executive Director of the St. Louis Housing Authority, emphasized the project’s commitment to the community, stating that it represents more than just new construction but a dedication to the residents who have shaped Clinton-Peabody’s history. Julie DeGraaf, Vice President of Community Redevelopment at Preservation of Affordable Housing, highlighted the collaborative spirit, noting that the redevelopment reflects what is possible when residents actively help shape their community’s future. Aaron Gornstein, President and CEO of POAH, expressed gratitude for the collective effort, looking forward to the construction of new homes. The broader vision for Clinton-Peabody includes a reconfigured street grid, a new central park, and enhanced amenities, aiming to foster a safe, supportive, and joyful environment for generations to come.
JL Group observes that such large-scale, community-centric redevelopment projects in urban centers like St. Louis are increasingly vital for addressing housing needs while preserving the historical fabric and fostering economic growth within established neighborhoods.
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