Major Green Infrastructure Project Kicks Off in St Louis’ Hyde Park Neighborhood

A groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of a significant green infrastructure project in St. Louis took place in the Hyde Park Neighborhood on March 6th, 2024. The green infrastructure project, which will be installed on the property of Be Well Café & Market, was the recipient of a St. Louis Metropolitan Sewerage District (MSD) Project Clear Rainscaping Large Grant.

The partnership between Be Well Café & Market, Resource Environmental Solutions (RES), and St Louis MSD will enhance the community and result in a reduced volume of stormwater entering the combined sewer system. The project will also serve as a gateway to the commercial area of the Hyde Park neighborhood.

During the ceremony, Project Manager, Aaron Defenbaugh, provided a summary of the project. RES is providing capital, design, and construction services for the project. Native landscaping on the site will help manage stormwater flows while supporting the local pollinator population. Construction will begin in the Spring of 2024.

Fatimah Muhammad, Founder of Be Well Café & Market, said, “This project is so important to the community and to Be Well Cafe whose whole purpose is to be well holistically. Greenery is an important natural resource, with its ability to detoxify the air, promote emotional well-being, and enhance physical and mental health. Green landscaped spaces encourage greater social interactions and physical activity, reduce the risk of obesity, relieve stress, and help people feel a greater sense of well-being and belonging.”

Be Well Café and Market provides a platform for new and aspiring food purveyors, creative entrepreneurs, and small business owners. The café promotes business development, entrepreneurs, job training, and community engagement while providing access to fresh, wholesome food.