St. Joseph's Missouri River shore has the potential to become one of the most dynamic riverfronts in Missouri. Not only does it have significant potential, but in several areas the development or re- development is already well underway.

Generally referred to as St. Joseph's "Western Edge," this area is comprised of just over two miles that stretch from the St. Joseph Frontier Casino in the north to the old stockyards area in the south. Virtually the entire length of this area is undergoing active redevelopment.

In the north, a grant from the Missouri Department of Conservation will help fund what may be the state's first major nature center on the river. The facility will be part of a larger riverfront plan being developed by the St. Joseph Parks, Recreation & Civic Facilities. This effort includes park improvements throughout this northern section. The area already includes sheltered river access that affords area residents some of the best Missouri River boating in the state.

To the south, downtown St. Joseph forms a hub of the Western Edge. This region's growing activity is spurring redevelopment that will help solidify the center of the riverfront. Plans are underway to connect this increasingly active area with the riverfront.

South of downtown, redevelopment is focusing on the 244-acre Brownfields redevelopment target area and the former stockyards. With the nearby Port Authority, rail and highway, these areas are natural for industrial and transportation facilities.

The city's ultimate goal for the section involves creation off an industrial park focusing on businesses that can benefit from the adjacent transportation network. The city is working to improve redevelopment prospects in the area with a practical strategy and increased funding assistance, including federal grants.

The first step occurred with federal approval of the Brownfields Pilot Project. More recently an agricultural manufacturer completed its second expansion in the nearby stockyards area. This work represented an investment of $1.4 million and the creation of 10 new jobs.

The entire Riverfront benefits from convenient access via I-229 and U.S. Highway 36. With rail, river and the nearby Rosecrans Airport, the Western Edge is likely to exceeded its projections.

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graphic content without permission is prohibited. | Destination Saint Joseph is a supplement to Ingram's Magazine