About the Study

What is this Study?

The Spanish Lake: Confluence of Opportunity Study will combine data and community input to create a “small area plan.”

A small area plan is a guide for improving a specific neighborhood or part of a community. It focuses on one area instead of a whole city or county (unlike to the St. Louis County 2050 plan, which focused on the entire St. Louis County).

A small area plan looks at what a community needs, what is working well, and what could be better. It includes ideas for things like housing, parks, roads, businesses, and community services.

Most importantly, a small area plan includes steps for how to make these ideas happen. It helps local leaders and community members come together to identify real improvements and opportunities that can be made now and into the future.

To create this plan, St. Louis County is studying the history, current conditions, and potential future of Spanish Lake.

This Study will:

  • Set a clear vision

  • Identify priorities

  • Recommend actions that can be carried out over time

Flowchart illustrating the strategic planning process for urban development, starting with goals like open space, community facilities, and transportation infrastructure, leading to the 2050's desired outcomes of safe communities, responsible infrastructure, equitable growth, housing options, and healthy residents.
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Why does this study matter?

Spanish Lake has seen many plans over the years. But there has not been one clear strategy to guide change. This study will bring everything together into one shared plan.

New opportunities are emerging. The opening of WildCare Park is expected to bring new visitors, jobs, and investment to the area.

This is the right time to plan for what comes next.

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What makes Spanish Lake unique?

Spanish Lake stands out because of its natural setting and community assets.

The area includes:

  • Major parks and conservation areas

  • Farmland and open space

  • Neighborhoods with a mix of housing types

In fact, more than half of the land in Spanish Lake is open space, agriculture, or open land.

This creates both challenges and opportunities for the future.

Study Goals

This study will focus on identifying opportunities to:

  • Strengthen neighborhoods

  • Improve safety and mobility

  • Support local businesses

  • Protect natural areas

  • Expand access to day-to-day services

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Project Team

This study is led by St. Louis County with support from a team of planning, design, and community engagement partners.