Special Business District
A quick overview of Central West End's Cathedral Square and the Cathedral Square Special Business District.
Like so many historic neighborhoods, CWE's Cathedral Square was not immune to the 1970's wrecking ball movement of tear down and build new. As heartbreaking as it was to lose so many architectural gems, a movement emerged from the rubble of those pieces of history lost as St. Louis citizens raised their voices in protest. It was the dawn of a preservation revolution culminating with the creation of the local historic district.
History
1892
Along the northern boundary, Westminster Place, once a private street called Fullerton Place, was laid out in 1892.
1904-1907
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis began construction in 1907, created in the Byzantine and Romanesque style, housing one of the finest displays of mosaics in the western hemisphere. Most of the structures located between the eastern boundary of Boyle Avenue and the western boundary of Taylor Avenue were built during the robust expansion of the city surrounding the World Fair of 1904.
1960s-1970s
Like many urban areas, the district faced challenges such as vacancy and disinvestment, culminating in the demolition of many historic structures. In response, a combination of efforts saved what is now referred to as Cathedral Square: The non-profits organizations served as anchors, helping to stabilize the area; many longtime residents have resisted the trend to relocate to the suburbs as the younger generations rediscovered the richness of urban living, bringing a fresh perspective to historic preservation.
1996-1997
On May 6, 1996, voters approved a property tax levy at the maximum rate of $.85 per $100 valuation to fund the Cathedral Square Special Business District for three years, beginning January 1, 1997. The annual revenue is approximately $90,000 - $95,000.