Chesterfield, MO, is one of the fastest-growing parts of West County.
Here’s what we’ll cover on the new Downtown Chesterfield:
- What is Downtown Chesterfield?
- How Long Will The Development Take?
- The Vision: An Urban Downtown
- Future Impact on Chesterfield
What is Downtown Chesterfield, MO?
Downtown Chesterfield is a $2 billion new development that will completely transform the Chesterfield we know today.
This redevelopment project, led by the Staenberg Group, aims to transform the once-popular Chesterfield Mall into a booming, mixed-use downtown area.
This massive development is a response to changing commercial real estate trends. Downtown Chesterfield is a prime example of sustainable urban design that will blend:
- Residential living
- Retail space
- Office space
- Green space
- Public amenities
The mall property will be converted into millions of square feet of new space for residents and visitors to enjoy.
The Chesterfield Mall Redevelopment
Located off Interstate 64/40 and Clarkson Road, the Chesterfield Mall was once the go-to hang-out spot in West County.
However, the mall became vacant due to shifting consumer behaviors and the rise of online shopping.
The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t help either.
In 2017, The Staenberg Group started acquiring pieces of the 1.3 million-square-foot property.
The redevelopment project is now taking shape as the mall demolition has begun.
Downtown Chesterfield Development Timeframe
The Chesterfield Mall demolition began on October 15, 2024, and will continue for six months.
During this time, St. Louis-based Spirtas Worldwide will take the mall apart, piece by piece.
The Dillard’s and Macy’s buildings will remain part of the redevelopment.
When the demolition is complete, around Spring 2025, grading and infrastructure work will begin.
The site will be leveled and prepped for future buildings and public plazas.
The infrastructure work will take about one year to complete, finishing in mid-2026.
The first residential buildings should start construction in mid-2026 and take roughly two years to complete.
How many residential units are included?
Downtown Chesterfield will feature approximately 2,700 new residential units.
When Could You Move to Downtown Chesterfield?
If everything goes according to plan, we might see people moving into this development in late 2028!
Related Article: Your Guide to Living in Chesterfield, MO
Keep in mind that this development timeframe will likely change, and delays are very likely with a project of this magnitude.
Michael Staenberg, founder of the Staenberg Group, has pledged to see the project through to completion, making Downtown Chesterfield a lasting addition to St. Louis County.
A New Urban Downtown
Downtown Chesterfield’s goal is to create an urban downtown in a suburban location.
This is not a suburban downtown.
Tim Lowe, vice president of leasing and development at the Staenberg Group, noted that the project’s first phase will focus on residential options to encourage a lively, diverse neighborhood.
Planned housing units will include apartments, condominiums, and senior living options, with many designed around Central Park and public plazas.
Residential living is at the core of the new vision for Chesterfield.
The developers want a built-in customer base for future retail spaces, entertainment venues, and office buildings. That’s why the residential phase is happening first.
How many people will live in Downtown Chesterfield?
An estimated 5,000 to 6,000 future residents might live within a one-mile radius of the project.
Infrastructure and Green Space
Aside from housing and retail, Downtown Chesterfield will have a heavy emphasis on green spaces.
25% of the project is dedicated to public plazas, sidewalks, walking trails, biking lanes, and parks.
These walkways will link Central Park, Wildhorse Village, and Downtown Chesterfield with surrounding areas.
Additionally, rain gardens and sustainable features are part of the development plan to manage water resources responsibly.
Economic Impact on Chesterfield, MO
The transformation of Chesterfield Mall into a mixed-use, multi-generational urban downtown will significantly impact the local economy.
In partnership with the City of Chesterfield, the Staenberg Group secured tax increment financing (TIF) up to $352 million.
This is meant for improvements to public infrastructure:
- Roads
- Pedestrian pathways
- Utilities
- Parking
The TIF will also help:
- Attract new businesses and residents
- Generate local revenue
- Create new jobs
Once complete, Downtown Chesterfield will be one of the most extensive new urban downtown developments in the United States.
Is This Chesterfield’s Future?
The Downtown Chesterfield plan aims to create a lively city center dedicated to community gathering spaces and green areas.
It’s intended to be an economic hub rivaling Downtown St. Louis and Clayton.
With luxury residential options, boutique shopping, office buildings, and a network of public plazas, the new downtown will foster a strong sense of community and attract residents and businesses alike.
It’s a place for residents to live, work, and enjoy right in the heart of Chesterfield.
We can’t wait to see the progress unfold!
