Just four months ago, a tornado nearly destroyed Alumnus Gardens—the newly-opened affordable housing development in the Ville neighborhood of St Louis. Thankfully, no lives were lost.
Yet today, there is not only hope for the future—but action and growth for The Ville.
“This is a wonderful day. I was here the day after the tornado to see all the damage on the first building—but I know we will rise from that,” said Ward 12 Alderwoman Sharon Tyus. “While that is being repaired—to see the second part of this project go on—I am overjoyed and would love to see a second and third addition.”
On Tuesday partners broke ground on Alumnus West, a 52-unit permanent supportive housing development that also offers amenities and access to health services. 13 units are reserved for seniors (55+) exiting homelessness. It is the second collaboration between the Nash Group, Vecino Group, and CareSTL Health—the same team behind Alumnus Gardens.
Troy Nash, CEO of co-developer The Nash Group, recognized the team behind Alumnus West. “When it comes to leadership here in St Louis, they—Alderwoman Tyus and Representative Collins—certainly walk the walk. And I also want to acknowledge the work that MHDC does on behalf of the citizens of Missouri, as well the Vecino Group for being a fantastic partner and leader in the affordable housing space.”
“The devastation from the tornado here is pretty rough to see,” said David Allison, Vecino Director of Development. “But it really is exciting for us to have the opportunity to help rebuild and better this community. We’re thankful to all of our partners for their investment and efforts: Nash Group, MOWAH, M1, Monarch, and of course CareSTL and City of St Louis.”
Said M1 Bank Senior Vice-President Robert McLain, “I’ve lived here all my life—the heart of St Louis is its neighborhoods. When Vecino approach us to provide financing for Alumnus West, it was an immediate ‘yes’. In developing properties like this, we are revitalizing homes, businesses and the entire community where everyone can thrive.”
State Representative Kimberly-Ann Collins shared how important this development is for the area. “Let me thank the Nash Group, Vecino Group, Monarch and all community partners—for putting this investment together. The Ville is really historical with a unique culture and fabric. To see these vacant lots turned into vibrant housing—I am eager to welcome the residents to the 52 units here soon.”
Located at 4457 St Louis Avenue in St Louis, MO, Alumnus West will deliver 52 brand new, affordable homes—in a mix of 1-Bed and 2-Bed units—that will serve households at or below 30% and 60% Area Median Income. The 3-story building will have a ground-level fitness area and a large, multipurpose community room with full kitchen, as well as shared laundry on the first-level.
Supportive health and wellness services at Alumnus West will be provided by CareSTL Health.
“This is trauma for me to stand here,” shared Angela Clabon, Care STL CEO. “The tornado hit—and our Alumnus Gardens residents were displaced. I have to finish what I started—the residents and community mean everything to us. Thank you to Troy, for supporting the vision, and thanks to all for your support from the bottom of my heart.”
Alumnus West is planned to open in early 2027, with substantial construction is scheduled to take 20 months.
Lead Architect is Vecino Design, with Weihe Engineers, Inc. as Civil Engineer, and STAND as Structural Engineer. Vecino Construction is General Contractor.
Funding for the $19.8 Million development was secured through Construction and Perm. loans from M1 Bank and MHDC, along with equity investments by Redstone and Monarch.
Representative Collins shared how this collaboration has been inspiring for St Louis.
“These vacant lots have memories. To see public-private partners, community partners, and residents come together to make this happen is truly a dream come true.”
