East Loop Community Improvement District
Momentum builds in The Delmar Loop with major investments in infrastructure, new businesses, and development.
Crime is down 40%, a $6 million streetscape project is underway, and a $100 million mixed-use development will bring new residents and businesses to the district as foot traffic and economic activity continue to grow.
​ST. LOUIS (March 26, 2025) – The Delmar Loop is in the midst of a major transformation, driven by new business openings, significant infrastructure upgrades, and expanded economic investment. With more than 1 million visitors annually, 17,000+ vehicles traveling Delmar daily, and consumer spending projected to rise 16.5% by 2028, the Delmar Loop continues to be one of St. Louis' premier neighborhoods for retail, dining, entertainment and urban living.​​​​​​
​​​New businesses and economic growth
With nearly every vacant space under a letter of intent, businesses are rapidly expanding in the district, adding new dining, entertainment, residences and attractions. While exciting additions from 2024 include Brasas, The NIC, Goodcents, and UpLate, 2025 new developments are on pace for a banner year in The Delmar Loop. Soul 2 Soul, a restaurant and lounge offering an inviting atmosphere and soulful flavors, has already opened this year to rave reviews. Euphoria Kitchen and Kocktails, a new dining and cocktail experience, and House of Jollof, a restaurant celebrating West African cuisine and culture, are both set to open soon. On Another World Experiences, a cutting-edge virtual reality company, is seeking to bring their immersive technology experience to The Loop. ​​​​​​
Ribbon Cutting at Goodcents Subs, 6150 Delmar Blvd.
In addition to small business growth, The Delmar Loop is seeing major private investment. Subtext Investment Management has broken ground on the former Commerce Bank and Craft Alliance building in University City, a $100 million seven-story mixed-use development that will include luxury apartments and ground-floor commercial space. This project will increase residential density, boost retail activity, and further position the Loop as a walkable, mixed-use district.
Streetscape improvements enhance walkability and safety
The East Loop CID is investing in a $6 million dollar streetscape project to create a safer, more pedestrian-friendly experience along Delmar Blvd (5800-5900 blocks). The multi-phase project will include:
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Community engagement – Public input will help shape the final design.
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Engineering and conceptual design – Lamar Johnson Collaborative and Partners based in St. Louis will develop a more beautiful, accessible corridor.
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Planning and construction – Implementation begins after design approval and federal grant application.
Proposed improvements include:
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Lane reconfigurations to improve traffic flow and safety.
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Wider sidewalks for improved walkability and accessibility.
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Enhanced lighting and landscaping to create a more inviting atmosphere.
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Evaluation of bicycle lanes to encourage alternative transportation.
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This project, alongside Delmar Station’s Secure Platform Project, is part of a broader strategy to boost connectivity, increase safety, and foster economic growth in the district.
Caption: Rendering of LOCAL on Delmar. Source: ESG, provided by Subtext.
​Public safety investments drive results
Crime in the East Loop has dropped 40%, thanks to sustained investments in security, lighting, and staffing:
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Camera program – In place for three years, the district now has 10 security cameras, including two license plate-reading cameras added last year, which have helped solve crimes.
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Lighting upgrades – New street and parking lot lighting improves visibility and safety.
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Ambassador program – Trained security personnel provide hospitality, assist visitors, and maintain an active, welcoming presence in the district.​​​​​​
A growing destination for events and tourism
The Loop continues to draw increasing numbers of visitors, with 10,000 to 15,000 people visiting daily, plus large turnouts for major events:
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7,000 attendees at the Ice Carnival
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2,500 attendees at the inaugural Día de los Muertos Festival
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1,000 attendees at the Juneteenth Celebration​​
To support this growth, the Loop Trolley will begin its 2025 season on May 1, operating Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. It will also offer extended hours for Twilight Thursdays at the Missouri History Museum and Balloon Glow in Forest Park, providing visitors with an easy way to explore the district. A new Trolley Passport program will allow riders to scan a QR code for discounts at local businesses, further integrating the Trolley into the Loop’s economic ecosystem.
Festival-goers gather to watch the Ice Carnival Drone Show.
Support the Delmar Loop’s growth through sponsorship
“The Delmar Loop is entering a new era of growth and investment,” said Samantha Smugala, Executive Director of the East Loop CID. “With new businesses, improved safety, upcoming infrastructure enhancements, and developments like LOCAL on Delmar, we are creating an environment that attracts visitors, supports entrepreneurs, and fosters long-term economic development. With financial support from donors and sponsors, we can continue to build on this momentum in even greater ways.”
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The East Loop CID and Loop Special Business District invite businesses and community leaders to sponsor upcoming events and help sustain this momentum. Sponsorship opportunities provide high visibility and a direct impact on the district’s continued success.
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For more information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Samantha Smugala
Executive Director
East Loop Community Improvement District
Email: director@thedelmarloop.com
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