3644 Bamberger
For over 60 years, the Norath family lived on both floors of the well-kept two-family building at 3644 Bamberger Avenue in Tower Grove South. As we sat around the dining room table, the Norath family remembered when The House of the Good Shepard was demolished at the top of the street back in the early 1970s.
The site is now an Aldi grocery store and shopping center. A close family member, the matriarch, Ann Marie Norath, recently passed away, and the family had the difficult decision of what to do with the beloved home.
Over the years, 3600-3700 Bamberger Avenue has had challenges. In 2014, TGCDC set out to stabilize the area based on our research for the TGCDC framework and vision plan. Calls for service decreased from 397 in 2014 to 115 in 2019. This equates to a 71% drop in calls for service over a five-year period.
The Norath family recognized the positive changes TGCDC brought to their block and offered the property to us. TGCDC completed the purchase in August 2023, and we will add the two spacious units to our affordable housing portfolio (60% of AMI or lower).
The most attractive part of the building is the untouched and beautiful interior woodwork. In addition, we’ve painted the units, added a new furnace, condenser, and water heater, replaced the electric panel on the second floor, replaced the sewer inside and out, demolished the structurally compromised garage, and added new sidewalks.
The Norath family also refurbished the swing set for future families who may occupy the units. More improvements are forthcoming as we get the units ready to lease in October. Thanks to the Norath family for presenting the opportunity to continue the maintenance and functionality of the home. Thanks to @PNC bank for the grant to help with the additional and unplanned expenses. TGCDC has spent around $35,000 to date.
TGCDC now owns and operates 44 affordable rental units in 14 buildings, south of Gravois in Tower Grove South. The average rent is around $525 for a one-bedroom apartment. TGCDC takes pride in professionally managing and maintaining homes in safe and attractive neighborhoods. One home and one block at a time.