January 2026 Headlines in Metro East St. Louis
This week, East St. Louis and the St. Louis Metro East region are buzzing with significant developments. From church burglaries to infrastructure upgrades, here’s a breakdown of the top stories shaping the area.
Churches Targeted in Burglaries
In a troubling trend, thieves have burglarized eight churches in East St. Louis and one in nearby Cahokia Heights over the past month. They targeted electronics, leaving congregations scrambling to improve security. To address the issue, pastors from the affected churches met to discuss the break-ins and explore protective measures. This wave of thefts has raised concerns about community safety and the need for stronger law enforcement efforts.
Eminent Domain for Blighted Properties Near NGA Campus
St. Louis city officials are taking action to address urban blight near the new National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) campus. They plan to use eminent domain to acquire 89 blighted properties, many owned by developer Paul McKee’s Northside Regeneration project. This initiative aims to revitalize the area and encourage new development around the NGA campus, which serves as a critical hub for national security and economic growth.
Gateway Arch National Park Expansion to East St. Louis
In a historic move, the City of East St. Louis has acquired 50 acres of riverfront land. This includes a 20-acre parcel directly aligned with the iconic Gateway Arch. The acquisition sets the stage for a potential expansion of the Gateway Arch National Park to the Illinois side of the Mississippi River. This expansion could boost tourism and create economic opportunities, further connecting East St. Louis to the St. Louis Metro East region.
Federal Funding Cuts Threaten Local Nonprofits
Several St. Louis area nonprofits are facing challenges due to abrupt federal funding cuts totaling over $2 million. Organizations like Annie Malone Children & Family Services and PreventEd have been hit hard, jeopardizing vital mental health and substance abuse programs. Although some grants may have been reinstated, the uncertainty has left these nonprofits searching for alternative funding to continue their essential work.
Water System Improvements Completed in East St. Louis
Illinois American Water has completed a $157 million improvement project at its regional treatment facility in East St. Louis. The upgraded facility now serves approximately 350,000 residents in St. Clair and Madison counties. This investment highlights the importance of modernizing essential services to meet the needs of the St. Louis Metro East community.
Annual Air Race Classic Registration Opens
Registration is now open for the 49th annual Air Race Classic, an all-women pilots’ cross-country race. This year’s event will begin at the St. Louis Regional Airport in East Alton, Illinois. The race celebrates aviation heritage and draws participants from across the country, showcasing the Midwest and Southeast.
Why These Stories Matter
These developments highlight the resilience and growth potential of East St. Louis and the broader St. Louis Metro East region. From addressing urban blight to improving infrastructure and expanding tourism, the community is taking steps toward progress. However, challenges like church burglaries and funding cuts remind us of the importance of collaboration and investment.
For more in-depth coverage of local news and community stories, visit The Narrative Matters.
Related Resources
- Learn more about the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and its impact on the region here.
- Explore the history and significance of the Gateway Arch National Park on the National Park Service website.
This article is your go-to source for breaking news in East St. Louis and the St. Louis Metro East area. Stay tuned for updates on these and other important stories shaping the region.
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