More than 300 articles have been published on nextSTL in 2016. Readership has increased more than 50% for the second year in a row. The site and its contributors continue to receive hard-earned praise. More importantly, issues critical to the future of St. Louis are covered and generate thoughtful and informed discussions. With exciting changes coming in 2017, we take a look at the 10 most read stories of 2016. Below are 1-5 (see the 6-10 most read stories here):
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5. Major League Soccer Ownership Group, Stadium Plan Unveiled for St. Louis
The drama that’s been mounting for months is over. With rumors and leaks springing with increasing frequency, the hushed MLS2STL group tasked with identifying a Major League Soccer franchise ownership group for St. Louis has broken its silence. (Also among the most read stories: MoDOT Agrees to Sell St. Louis City 30 Acres at 22nd Street for a “Soccer Park”)
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4. Stunning Skyscraper by Studio Gang Unveiled for Kingshighway Site
While the fact planning for a residential tower has been in progress at the West Pine-Kingshighway site has been known to nextSTL readers since May, nothing quite compares to a rendering. This is especially true with a high-profile location and higher-profile architect in Studio Gang.
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3. First Look at Bevo Mill Biergarten Planned for South City Landmark
Back in May the City of St. Louis selected Pat & Carol Schuchard as the developers to take on the vacant landmark Bevo Mill at 4749 Gravois Avenue. The Schuchards, redevelopers and owners of event spaces the Boo Cat Club and Majorette, purchased the building for $500K. Planned was a $3.3M renovation and the addition of a biergarten.
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2. $100M Remake of Union Station Moves Ahead, Ferris Wheel Included
The next redevelopment of St. Louis’s historic Union Station is set to break ground next month. Planned are more hotel rooms and more entertainment, including light shows, a fire show, and a 3D experience. The total project is expected to be near $100M. (Also among the most read stories: 1M Gallon, $45M Aquarium Announced for St. Louis Union Station)
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1. NFL Concludes STL Effort Falls Short, Rams Deemed Eligible for Relocation
Today, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell told team owners that none of the three markets being discussed for relocation to Los Angeles have presented a stadium plan that would prevent relocation (the text of the commissioner’s report regarding St. Louis is below). Being approved for relocation is not the same as being allowed to relocate, which can only be approved by a vote of team owners.
