Webster Groves Rezoning: 21-Unit Condo Tower Replaces Central Parking Lot

Webster Groves City Council recently approved a rezoning request and preliminary development plan that will replace a downtown parking lot with a four-story mixed-use building. The project, submitted by WGRE Holdings, sits at the intersection of West Lockwood Avenue and Jefferson Road. Neighbors and local shop owners have expressed strong support for the change, though some residents have raised questions about potential increases in vehicle congestion.

The proposed structure contains 21 residential condominiums and between 5,000 and 6,000 square feet of ground-level retail space. The design includes 65 off-street parking spots to accommodate residents and customers. Ashley Ulkus and Rachel McDougall, co-founders of the nearby store Boardeux, welcomed the news. Ulkus said the development brings "action, excitement and energy" to the area. She noted that much of the commercial activity currently occurs further down the street, and she believes this project will balance development across the neighborhood.

McDougall added that new growth prevents the community from becoming stale. She stated, "It’s exciting to see that for the future of families in Webster and just development across the community." Both women recently opened their retail space directly across the street from the proposed site. Ulkus described the project as a "win-win" that gives visibility to existing businesses and encourages new retailers to open in the area.

John Wagner, director of planning and development for the city of Webster Groves, described the project as a "nice amenity" for downtown. He explained that adding residents to the area helps keep them close to local stores and restaurants. Wagner acknowledged concerns about traffic but said the city is working with the developer to address them. The developer is preparing a traffic study, or traffic letter, to evaluate parking and vehicle flow. Wagner stated, "We’re just making sure that the traffic is not going to overwhelm the area and I don’t think it will."

The approval of the preliminary plan is the first formal step in the development process. WGRE Holdings must now present the building design to the Architectural Review Board for review. Following that, the developers will submit a final development plan to the plan commission. City Council will hold the final vote on the project after these reviews are complete.