Group Fosters Regional Cooperation during I-64 Construction
ST. LOUIS - April 7, 2008 - Mid-Metro 4, a coalition of the cities of Brentwood, Clayton, Maplewood and Richmond Heights, has been selected as a recipient of the 2008 "What's Right With The Region!" award for fostering regional cooperation in their communities during the I-64 construction.
The award, administered by FOCUS St. Louis, recognizes excellence in everyday citizens and organizations working effectively to create a thriving and cooperative region. Each year 20 honorees are chosen, four in each of the five categories - Creating Quality Educational Opportunities, Demonstrating Innovative Solutions, Fostering Regional Cooperation, Improving Racial Equality and Social Justice, and Promoting Stronger Communities.
By uniting business, buyers, and visitors from their four communities, Mid-Metro 4 created a new synergy in the region and offered a reason and the resources for St. Louisans to rise above the I-64 shutdown. Mid-Metro 4 features a unique promotions-based program and incentive card to invite residents and visitors alike to rediscover the fantastic amenities the central corridor has to offer.
The outreach program has helped empower consumers, residents and businesses to continue to enjoy the area's exceptional offerings, such as shopping, dining, and cultural events, during the I-64 construction and beyond. The organization took the initiative to work together outside of their own municipal boundaries in order to stimulate the area's economy, a model that could have a resounding effect on the region, especially in St. Louis County where there are 91 municipalities.
"We are very proud to have our work recognized for such a prestigious honor. This award reflects the combined efforts of the four cities," said representatives Ellen Dailey (Brentwood), Judy Kekich (Clayton), Rachelle L'Ecuyer (Maplewood) and Bola Akande (Richmond Heights). "But more importantly, we are excited that we were able to contribute to the sustained viability of our area's wonderful retail, entertainment and corporate offices."
FOCUS St. Louis is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a thriving, cooperative region by engaging citizens to participate in active leadership roles and to influence positive community change. Supported by nearly 1,000 members and representing all 16 counties of the bi-state region, FOCUS seeks to develop leadership opportunities for members of the community, foster regional collaboration, and promote community connections through activities and events. For more information about FOCUS St. Louis, visit https://www.focus-stl.org.
Mid-Metro 4 will accept the award in an 11th annual celebration ceremony at Sheldon Concert Hall on Wednesday, May 7, 2008. For more information on the Mid-Metro 4 or the Mid-Metro 4 Card Promotion, logon to http://www.midmetro4.com/.
About Mid-Metro 4
Mid-Metro 4 is a coalition of the cities of Brentwood, Clayton, Maplewood and Richmond Heights. The organization was created in 2007 to emphasize the accessibility of the area's one-of-a-kind shopping, dining, entertainment, and working experiences. By uniting as the Mid-Metro 4, the communities are empowering consumers, residents and businesses to continue to enjoy the exceptional amenities the areas have to offer during the I-64 construction and beyond. For more information on the Mid-Metro 4, logon to http://www.midmetro4.com/ , email info@midmetro4.com or call 314-505-5291.
