👋 Good Morning, West County!

In today’s ⚡️West County Pulse newsletter:

🚒 A New Fire Station
🎬 STL in a new HBO Show
🍴 A New Creve Coeur Restaurant

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

— Jared Michel

Top Stories

🚒 Monarch Fire Relocates to Upgraded Station

Monarch Fire Protection District has moved into their new 13,000-square-foot station on Wild Horse Creek Road in Chesterfield. The facility, funded by a $14.9 million voter-approved bond from 2020, replaces their 1970s-era station and provides upgraded features including private rooms, a modern gym, and improved truck access.

🎬 New HBO Series to Feature St. Louis

HBO is developing a new limited series set in St. Louis. Jason Bateman revealed on his podcast that he will star as a local weatherman in the upcoming show. The actor shared that he's currently working on his character's appearance, though specific details about the show's premise haven't been announced.

📚 Library Trims Digital Checkout Limits

The St. Louis County Library has announced changes to its digital borrowing limits as eMedia costs have risen above 50% of the collections budget. The new policy reduces Hoopla checkouts to eight items monthly and Libby holds to 20 items. These adjustments will affect approximately 13% of current digital users.

🚧 New Roundabout Takes Shape on Route 109

The transformation at Highway 109 and Wild Horse Creek Road is now moving full steam ahead. MODOT's ambitious roundabout project is entering its next phase, with traffic shifts planned for both Route CC and Route 109. Eastbound drivers will test out new pavement while westbound traffic maintains its temporary route. The project remains on track for completion this year.

🗑️ Police Offer Free Medication Disposal

This week the St. Louis County Police Department reminded residents about their ongoing medication disposal program. The department maintains secure drop-off locations throughout the county, with two convenient West County sites in Wildwood and Valley Park. This free service helps keep unused medications from falling into the wrong hands.

Business

🍽️ New Restaurant Coming to Creve Coeur

A new restaurant is preparing to open in Creve Coeur's former Reserve location. Oh London, launching February 17th, will serve American and British dishes along with rotating international specialties. The 11,000-square-foot space will include multiple dining rooms, a large bar area, and private event space.

🛒 Schnucks Round Up Campaign Returns

Schnucks has launched its annual February fundraising campaign supporting the Urban League. Running through February 18th, customers can round up their purchases to the nearest dollar at checkout. All donations support local job training programs that help community members develop career skills.

🎢 Six Flags Rides Get Winter Updates

Six Flags St. Louis maintenance teams are conducting their annual winter overhaul. Inside the mechanic shop, staff are inspecting roller coaster components and repairing boats. The maintenance period also includes installing new park signs and beginning early-season landscaping work.

🚧 Chesterfield Y Begins Locker Room Work

The Chesterfield Family YMCA is beginning a significant facility update next week. Starting February 10th, the men's locker room will close for renovations lasting 8-10 weeks.

School District Highlights

🎓 New Parkway Chief Makes Strong First Impression

Parkway's next chapter began to unfold this week as incoming superintendent Dr. Melissa Schneider addressed the community. During Wednesday's State of the District event, she connected with students, staff, and families while outlining her approach to educational leadership. Her presentation focused on maintaining district excellence while embracing innovation.

Chesterfield

🚧 Trail Section Closing for Upgrades

A section of the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail will close for essential infrastructure work starting February 10th. The 220-foot closure between the John L. LeCave Memorial Trailhead and the Katy Trail will allow crews to upgrade the stormwater pump station, improving flood protection in Chesterfield Valley through June 2025.

Creve Coeur

🌳 Creve Coeur Seeks Trail Funding

A significant expansion of Creve Coeur's pathway system is under consideration. The City Council voted unanimously to pursue federal funding for extending the Centennial Greenway along Baur Boulevard. The $9 million project would be jointly funded with the Great Rivers Greenway, while maintenance would be handled by St. Louis County and GRG.

Manchester

👮 MPD Announces Four Promotions

The Manchester Police Department celebrated the advancement of four officers to Corporal positions during Monday's Board of Aldermen meeting. Chief Ed Skaggs announced the promotions of Robert Gerholdt, Asmir Zeric, Andrew Cowan, and Andrew Hendrix. Family members participated in the traditional pinning of chevrons during the ceremony.

🏓 Manchester Spring Pickleball Tournament Set

The Manchester Parks and Recreation Department announced dates for their spring pickleball tournament. The event runs March 22-23 at Missouri Pickleball Club, featuring men's, women's, and mixed doubles divisions. Players can participate in round-robin matches from noon to 5pm each day. Learn more / register here.

Wildwood

🏠 New Wildwood Homes Stir Septic Debate

The Wildwood Planning & Zoning Commission has approved a new eight-home development at Pond Road and Highway 100. Developer Tim Meyer received permission to use individual septic systems instead of a centralized treatment plant. The Hills Hollow Estates project includes $20,800 in maintenance funding and requires the highest level of water treatment.

🌳 Trail Work Ahead on Al Foster

The Al Foster Memorial Trail is scheduled for routine maintenance this month. Tree trimming crews will be working to maintain trail safety and accessibility next week. Trail users may experience temporary delays February 10-13 while crews complete their work.

Valley Park

🎓 Valley Park Schools Need Community Help

Valley Park School District is introducing a new program to connect students with local community members and professionals. The district's Community Partner initiative allows participants to give feedback on student work and help develop hands-on learning opportunities. A brief online survey is available here for those interested in participating.

Upcoming Events

THANKS!

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