Wildwood's Evolution: A Testament to Community Spirit

In 1995, after a dedicated five-year effort, the area now known as Wildwood officially became part of St. Louis County.

 

Residents Debbie and Randy Hauser proposed the name "Wildwood," which was selected over alternatives like "Parkland," "Green Hills," and "Rockwood."

 

Since its incorporation, Wildwood has flourished, growing to a population of 35,517.

 

The city boasts diverse housing options, an evolving Town Center, a modern city hall, historic properties, a hotel, a movie theater, and a branch of St. Louis Community College.

 

Longtime residents recall when much of the city was undeveloped land.

 

In 1990, Passiglia's Nursery and Garden Center relocated from Ellisville to Wildwood.

 

Owner Chris Passiglia remembers, "When we moved out here, Clayton Road wasn’t pushed through to Hwy. 109 yet. There were cows and a pasture over where Lafayette High School sits now."

 

He added, "There was land that was available, and it was beautiful countryside."

 

Passiglia emphasized the community's support, especially during challenging times like the pandemic, noting, "We had so much traffic and support from the community."

 

Another longstanding business, Three French Hens, opened in 2003.

 

Owner Jeanie Hood recalls, "When I opened our doors, there was hardly anything in Wildwood. People said, 'What are you thinking? You’re out in the middle of nowhere.' I said, 'They’ll come.'"

 

Today, her shop attracts visitors from across the country and even internationally.

 

Wildwood's commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident.

 

Mayor Jim Bowlin, who took office in 2016, has prioritized land preservation and beautification projects, including enhancements along Hwy. 100 and the Manchester Road Improvement Project.

 

Historic landmarks like the Big Chief Roadhouse, established in 1928 along Route 66, continue to serve as community gathering spots.

 

Owner Stephanie Wilson emphasizes, "We’ve never been just a restaurant. People come together around food."

 

Recent developments further showcase Wildwood's growth.

 

In 2024, the city celebrated the completion of the first phase of the Village Green Project, introducing a versatile civic space adjacent to City Hall.

 

This area includes a stage for public events, additional parking, and improved access, with future plans for a playground and scenic trails.

 

Additionally, the Wildwood Internet Access Project has significantly improved high-speed internet availability, especially in rural areas west of Route 109.

 

Phase one, completed in 2024, brought high-speed internet to over 2,025 homes, addressing longstanding connectivity issues.

 

As Wildwood celebrates its 30th anniversary, the city stands as a testament to the power of community, growth, and shared vision.

 

From its humble beginnings to its current vibrancy, Wildwood exemplifies what it means to be a community.