Tom Shaw believed in the potential of people, tirelessly seeking to develop those who would later serve on boards and in public positions ranging from President of The St. Louis County Real Estate Board, President of the Mortgage Bankers Association, President of Chambers of Commerce and numerous other civic chairmanships. Tom's legacy continues to inspire civic oriented leaders who truly value and support the communities we live in and through a variety of endeavors.

Tom was a founder of Chesterfield Area Civic Progress, an organization that sprang up in 1987 and continues today as Progress 64 West. 

Today the mission of Progress 64 West is to promote the responsible growth of commerce in West St. Louis and St. Charles counties, with particular emphasis on the I-64 corridor from I-270 westward to I-70. Tom was exceedingly proud of the progress brought about by the collaboration and collective efforts of this group whom he counted among his friends, family and neighbors.

In an October 2012 article in West Newsmagazine, Tom said of Progress 64 West: “The idea was to create some kind of entity that could cross all boundaries - bring people together on issues that had a broad impact.”  

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Progress 64 West has turned out to be just that. Due to the hard work of citizens, businesses and civic leaders the I-64 Corridor has become the ideal and viable area to shop, dine, work, play, and stay. Together they have successfully convinced high tech firms, retail establishments, restaurants, and other types of commerce to establish their businesses in our communities.  In addition, they play a key role in getting the infrastructure that are needed to support growth.