The Vacancy Strategy Initiative (VSI) is anchored by three critical pillars. Together, these pillars form a robust framework for our efforts to address vacancy issues and enhance quality of life in the St. Louis region.
Interagency Coordination & Community Engagement
We believe that tackling the challenges of vacant properties requires a united front. By fostering collaboration between government agencies and departments and community groups, we ensure that our efforts are coordinated and inclusive. We do this through three key efforts:
- City Project Teams comprised of key City agencies, departments, and partners that focus on specific projects related to the VSI’s goals.
- STLVC Project Groups made up of volunteer residents and experts that focus on addressing specific issues related to vacancy, such as code enforcement, policy, and anti-displacement.
- Quarterly Community Convening events that inform the public of the VSI’s progress and solicit input on the City’s vacancy strategy.
Metrics, Maps and Cost Analysis
Leveraging data allows us to understand the scope of vacancy issues and community impact. This ensures that our strategies are informed by accurate information and are as effective as possible.
With support from the St. Louis Regional Data Alliance, the VSI is building on the STLVC’s existing tools to create public-facing metrics and maps that track vacant properties and associated City expenditures. Additionally, the VSI is conducting a comprehensive Cost of Vacancy Analysis to assess both the direct and indirect costs of vacant properties, including effects on property values, tax revenue, neighborhood vitality, and city services.
With support from the St. Louis Regional Data Alliance, the VSI is building on the STLVC’s existing tools to create public-facing metrics and maps that track vacant properties and associated City expenditures. Additionally, the VSI is conducting a comprehensive Cost of Vacancy Analysis to assess both the direct and indirect costs of vacant properties, including effects on property values, tax revenue, neighborhood vitality, and city services.
Vacant Lot & Building Management & Redevelopment Strategy
Building on the data and community engagement established by the two other pillars, the VSI will develop policies and prioritization models that will guide the equitable and efficient allocation of resources for building stabilization, demolition, lot maintenance, and beautification.
Additionally, upon completion, the STLVC will deliver a final report including a range of operational, programmatic, and policy recommendations, reflecting the extensive input and support from City stakeholders and the public. The final report will serve as a strategic guide for implementing the VSI’s goals and ensuring that interventions are both effective and broadly endorsed.
Additionally, upon completion, the STLVC will deliver a final report including a range of operational, programmatic, and policy recommendations, reflecting the extensive input and support from City stakeholders and the public. The final report will serve as a strategic guide for implementing the VSI’s goals and ensuring that interventions are both effective and broadly endorsed.