U.S. Air Force Contract Cements St. Louis as a National Aerospace Hub | Opera Theatre Announces Plans for a Performing Arts Center | Great Rivers Greenway Begins Construction
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Boeing Wins Big: U.S. Air Force Contract Cements St. Louis as a National Aerospace Hub
When the Greater St. Louis, Inc. team began working to support Project Voyager — Boeing’s ambitious, $1.8 billion project adjacent to St. Louis Lambert International Airport — they knew it was big. It required collaboration with a coalition of partners at every level, from St. Louis City to federal elected officials. The stakes were high, but if successful, the results would be monumental for the region.
This past Friday, Boeing was selected to develop the new, sixth-generation fighter jet for the U.S. Air Force, to be known as the F-47. Media reports indicate that the contract could be worth at least $20 billion.
The Bottom Line: “Not only will today’s announcement drive growth in jobs and investment here in St. Louis, but it also cements our region as a true national hub for aerospace and defense technology, as well as advanced manufacturing,” said GSL's Interim CEO Dustin Allison. “This contract will only serve to grow and strengthen these sectors and our region’s economy well into the future.”
Opera Theatre Announces Plans for a Performing Arts Center
For years, Opera Theatre of St. Louis — a GSL Investor Council member — has dreamed of a performance space all its own. This week, it announced plans to realize that dream. The premier arts organization has contracted to buy 6.7 acres of the Caleres company headquarters in Downtown Clayton with plans to turn it into a performing arts center, something Clayton Mayor Michelle Harris said has “long been a priority for residents and city leaders.” Centrally located and adjacent to highways and transit, the property offers OTSL room to expand, while creating space that supports other arts organizations. Caleres, an executive-level GSL investor, will remain in Clayton, with staff moving into new office space in 2026.
The Bottom Line: The arts contribute nearly $1 billion to St. Louis' economy, driving commerce, generating jobs, and attracting tourists. This plan gives a major property vibrant new life and will generate even more economic impact for the region.
Construction Begins on Brickline's North Connector
Great Rivers Greenway this week broke ground on the north connector section of the Brickline Greenway, which will connect Fairground Park — the northernmost point of the Brickline — with Midtown. Construction of this section will take two years, overhauling the infrastructure along North Grand Blvd. and Spring Ave. to add bike and pedestrian lanes, enhance lighting and safety, and pave the way for investment and economic development in previously disinvested neighborhoods.
The Bottom Line: This is continued progress on a $245 million project outlined in the STL 2030 Jobs Plan as critical to investing in and revitalizing neighborhoods, connecting residents, and restoring the core of our region.
The streets around Busch Stadium buzzed with activity this week as Downtown St. Louis prepared for Opening Day 2025. Pre-game ceremonies start today at 2:30 p.m. with First Pitch at 3:15 p.m., when the St. Louis Cardinals will take on the Minnesota Twins.
While our metro is filled with architectural landmarks and beautiful brick buildings, it’s also home to incredible green spaces and stunning vistas a short distance from wherever you are. Check out the STLMade stories of explorers, adventure seekers, and St. Louisans working to preserve the region’s natural beauty.
