The St. Louis City Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority (LCRA) in collaboration with Commerce Bank issued a request for proposals today for the historic Mound City Trust Building at 4401 Natural Bridge. The building has been occupied by Commerce Bank since acquiring it 1974.

As day-to-day banking transactions have shifted online, large open lobbies to designed to accommodate lines of customers waiting for an open teller have given way to smaller facilities with private meeting rooms that allow for more individualized banking services. Commerce Bank is adapting by renovating and expanding the existing Commerce Bank building directly across the street at 4402 Natural Bridge. Once construction is complete the bank will vacate the facility at 4401 Natural Bridge and is seeking proposals to redevelop the vacated property.

Although not currently listed on the national register of historic places, according to Cultural Resources Office of the City of St. Louis, the property is worthy of local landmark status, given its significance to Natural Bridge Avenue and the legacy of the Mound City Trust Company. The RFP states that respondents may propose demolition of the existing structure however redevelopment of the existing structure is preferred.

The building sits at the corner of Natural Bridge and North Newstead Ave in the Penrose neighborhood (Ward 21, Ald. John Collins-Muhammad) next to the Julia Davis Branch Library. It’s located within a proposed Chapter 353 redevelopment area which would make it eligible for 10-15 years of tax abatement depending on the type of development.

Built in 1920, the 6,620 square foot building has been well maintained and features the original coffered ceiling with dentil crown moulding, a second floor mezzanine, and a working bank vault.

The deadline for submittal of proposals is 4:30 PM, Monday December 11, 2017. Questions are due to LCRA by November 17th at 4:30pm. For additional details and requirements download the full RFP to purchase and redevelop 4401 Natural Bridge Ave