by Eavin Moore
There has been plenty of talk over the last couple of years about The Uptown St. Joseph Revitalization Project. I don’t want to spend a lot of time here re-hashing the politics of the whole thing. There has certainly been enough of that already. The demolition of Heartland’s Downtown campus was the impetus for the project, but it is the revitalization of the surrounding neighborhoods, that I would like to speak to today.
As a resident of the Cathedral Hill neighborhood, I was more than a little interested in the mini-drama as it unfolded, mainly to see how it would impact the area where I live.
I am pleased to report that so far, the plan seems to be working as intended. The financial incentives that are the backbone of the program have encouraged many area homeowners to get on board. While progress on the former hospital site has been slower than we might have hoped, progress in the surrounding area can be measured almost daily. All I have to do is step outside my front door every weekend, to be greeted with the sounds of construction. Hammers and saws mean things are happening. A great chance to see some of this first hand will happen on Sunday, May 4th, 2008 from 2-5pm, with the Uptown Historic Homes Tour.
This year’s tour will start at 1117 Isadore, where refreshments will be served. Maps will guide visitors to other open houses, including 1115 and 1118 Isadore, 518 North 12th, 521 North 4th, and 9th & Robidoux. This will also be your opportunity to see inside the newly re-done San Regis Apartments, at 1015-31 Faraon, and a beautiful row house at 1214 Frederick.
There is no charge for the tour and there will be treats at every location. Free parking is also available at both The Cathedral of St. Joseph, and 9th and Robidoux.
For more information about the tour or any other questions about the Uptown St. Joseph Revitalization Project, call their local office at 232-1829.
I’ll be taking the tour myself and can’t wait. I hope to see you there.