Historic Affordable Renovation in Fox Park, Tower Grove East and Benton Park West

DeSales Preservation II — Preserving Character, Affordability, and Neighborhood Strength

DeSales Preservation 2 is a major renovation initiative aimed at preserving and enhancing affordable rental housing across historic neighborhoods in South St. Louis. This project will modernize 71 existing affordable units across 28 historic buildings in Fox Park, Tower Grove East, and Benton Park West, ensuring long-term affordability in highly desired areas and improved living conditions for residents.

Project Overview

DeSales Preservation 2 will renovate and preserve 71 scattered-site affordable apartments, with updates focused on modernizing interiors, improving energy efficiency, and maintaining long-term affordability. Key features include:

  • 71 affordable units across 28 historic buildings in Fox Park, Tower Grove East, and Benton Park West

  • Affordability mix: 11 units at 30% AMI, 60 units at 60% AMI

  • 30-year affordability commitment

  • Interior upgrades for residents, including modern amenities and energy-efficient enhancements

  • Preservation of significant historic architecture

  • Renovation of 2759 Russell for a new community space and office for DeSales/Fox Grove accounting

Location & Impact         


The project spans three key neighborhoods—Fox Park, Tower Grove East, and Benton Park West—and will:

  • Ensure stability for existing tenants through uninterrupted affordable housing

  • Improve energy efficiency and comfort while maintaining historic character

  • Strengthen neighborhood diversity and economic vitality

  • Continuation and strengthening of trusted resident service coordination, ensuring uninterrupted support for tenants, including access to case management, financial stability programs, and community engagement opportunities

Development Team

DeSales Community Development leads this initiative with an experienced team of affordable housing professionals:

  • Developer: DeSales Community Development

  • General Contractor: E.M. Harris Construction Co.

  • Architect: Naismith-Allen Inc.

  • Legal Counsel: Spencer Fane LLP

  • Development Consultant: Select Development

  • Property Management: Fox Grove Management

Development Timeline

  • December 2024: MHDC LIHTC award received

  • Late 2025: Renovation begins

  • Late 2026: Project completion and full lease-up

DeSales Preservation 2 has been shaped by ongoing consultation with residents, city officials, and community partners. The project has received strong support from:

  • 7th Ward Alderwoman Alisha Sonnier

  • Fox Park, Tower Grove East, and Benton Park West Neighborhood Associations

  • Board of Aldermen President Megan Green

  • Prosperity Connection & LifeWise STL

  • Home Sweet Home, Messiah Lutheran Church, and Community Center

  • Missouri 80th House District Representative Peter Merideth

  • Shenandoah Elementary & Dutchtown South Community Corporation

Funding Sources

We are grateful for the generous support of our funders who are helping to bring DeSales Preservation II to life.