Mediaboss Marketing

KMOV.com

Posted on February 9, 2015 at 6:10 AM

Updated today at 10:13 AM

ST. LOUIS (KMOV.com) High-profile crimes and the opening of Ballpark Village have impacted the businesses on Washington Avenue.

Murders by the City Museum and a downtown McDonalds, along with a violent teenage knockout game last fall, have hurt the businesses along Washington Avenue.

Police in the city say they are working closely with businesses, residents and private security to monitor crime in the area. Authorities say they have employed undercover units and additional security to the area.

Those with Downtown STL Inc. say downtown is a destination because of new attractions, including Ballpark Village, Union Station and new bars closer to Busch Stadium, which are making Washington Avenue less of a destination.

Another problem with the area is that the newness has worn off, according to Missy Kelley, COO of Downtown STL Inc.

The people that came down when it opened and really brought the energy to Washington Avenue are in their 40s, Kelley said. Theyre having kids, they are not necessarily the crowd thats coming down here, so Washington Avenue is really challenged with being relevant to the new group of people who are coming down.

Three new restaurants will be opening along Washington Avenue with the hopes of revitalizing the area. The chef of Niche and Pastaria plans to open an Italian restaurant called Porano Pasta and Gelato in the area. According to Downtown STL Inc., a restaurant featuring Mediteranian cuisine will also open on Washington Avenue.

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New businesses hoping to revitalize Washington Avenue