Clinton-Peabody Demolition Paves Way for New St. Louis Housing
The historic Clinton-Peabody Apartments in St. Louis’s Peabody–Darst–Webbe neighborhood are currently undergoing demolition. This pivotal moment marks a significant step towards modernizing public housing in the city, with plans to replace the aging structures with brand new, mixed-income apartments and revitalized community spaces.
A New Chapter for St. Louis Public Housing
On Friday, September 5, 2025, a significant transformation commenced in the heart of St. Louis’s Peabody–Darst–Webbe neighborhood. Demolition work began at the historic Clinton-Peabody Apartments, a site that has been a cornerstone of the community for over eight decades. Built in 1942, Clinton-Peabody holds the distinction of being the oldest public housing development in St. Louis City, embodying a rich history and serving generations of local families. This demolition marks the end of one era and the exciting beginning of another for the area, promising a brighter future for its residents.
From Past to Future: A Community’s Empowered Choice
The decision to replace these long-standing structures was not imposed, but rather driven by the residents themselves. In 2023, the Clinton-Peabody community overwhelmingly voted to demolish the existing buildings, signaling a clear desire for modern, improved living conditions. This democratic process highlights a powerful, resident-led initiative to revitalize their neighborhood, ensuring the new development directly addresses the needs and aspirations of those who call Peabody–Darst–Webbe home. This collective vision prioritizes comfort, safety, and contemporary amenities for all.
Redevelopment Vision: Modern Homes, Vibrant Public Spaces
The ambitious redevelopment plan promises a complete rejuvenation of the site. It includes the construction of 350 new mixed-income apartments and affordable homes, thoughtfully designed to cater to a diverse range of St. Louis families. Beyond residential units, the project envisions a dynamic community environment, featuring a reconfigured street grid to improve flow and access, a thoroughly renovated community center poised to become a hub for resident activities, and a brand-new central park. This vital green space will offer a crucial area for recreation, relaxation, and community gatherings, fostering a stronger sense of place and belonging for everyone in the neighborhood for decades to come.
Navigating the Transition: Timeline and Resident Support
Understanding the impact on current residents, the transition has been carefully phased to ensure stability. Those living in the buildings targeted for demolition were seamlessly moved into “refreshed” on-site units throughout 2023 and 2024, minimizing disruption and maintaining continuity. Looking ahead, St. Louis locals can anticipate the groundbreaking for the first wave of new construction in early 2026. Crucially, the redevelopment plan prioritizes existing Clinton-Peabody residents, guaranteeing them the first opportunity to move into the new, modern units as they become available. This commitment ensures the heart of the community remains intact during this exciting period of growth.
| Feature | Old Clinton-Peabody (Pre-2025) | New Redevelopment (Post-2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Built | 1942 (oldest public housing in St. Louis City) | New construction (starting early 2026) |
| Housing Type | Existing public housing units | 350 new mixed-income apartments & affordable homes |
| Community Focus | Original structures, established community layout | Reconfigured street grid, renovated community center, new central park |
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did demolition start?
Demolition of the Clinton-Peabody Apartments began on Friday, September 5, 2025. - Why were the Clinton-Peabody Apartments demolished?
Residents voted overwhelmingly in 2023 to demolish the existing buildings and replace them with modern housing, reflecting a community-driven decision for improvement. - What will replace the old apartments?
The site will be redeveloped into 350 new mixed-income apartments and affordable homes, complemented by a new street grid, renovated community center, and a central park. - When will new construction begin?
Construction on the first wave of new units is scheduled to commence in early 2026. - Will current residents be able to live in the new development?
Yes, current Clinton-Peabody residents have priority and will have the opportunity to move into the redevelopment as new units become available, ensuring their continued place in the community.
This significant redevelopment project represents more than just new buildings; it’s a testament to St. Louis’s ongoing commitment to urban revitalization and providing quality, modern living spaces for its residents, shaping the future of the Peabody–Darst–Webbe neighborhood for generations to come.
Clinton Peabody Demolished For Modern St Louis Housing
