ST. LOUIS – Tuesday was a pivotal moment for St. Louis. With nearly a half-billion dollars on the table, the city’s leadership is making plans in hopes to transform neighborhoods, boost public safety, and revive the economy.

The ARPA funds and the Rams settlement money were the topic of discussion at the board of aldermen meeting Tuesday. Alderwoman Alisha Sonnier (Ward 7) gave an update on the Rams settlement money.

“We are not spending any Rams settlement funds. The only dollars that have been spent were the original. We got $280 million. We had to give $30 million off the top to convention center,” Sonnier said. “Other than that, the other money is remaining in the fund, and the reason for that is because we want to focus on getting ARPA dollars. The Rams settlement (dollars) are not beholden of that same timeline.”

So far, the city has programmed $316 million of $498 million in planned ARPA investments. Of that, $156 million has already been spent on key projects to address some of St. Louis’ most pressing challenges, including public safety, housing, and economic justice. Alderwoman Shameem Clark Hubbard (Ward 10) wants to reassure those who are doubtful about the allocation of funds.

“Once you fully understand it and then you see the process and track it, then you’ll see that the money is being programmed,” Hubbard said. “The money is being spent and now we have to get it on the ground where people can tangibly see it and feel it.”

Approximately $63.4 million has been allocated to street improvements, including crucial repairs to streets and bridges. Over $16.9 million has been invested in community violence intervention programs. $30.8 million has been approved for small businesses and nonprofit grants in north St. Louis. There are 255 projects in the pipeline being tracked with 171 key performance indicators across 21 city agencies to ensure the funds are used effectively.

The clock is ticking. The ARPA money must be programmed and allocated by Dec. 31, 2024, and spent by Dec. 31, 2026.