Monsanto celebrated the groundbreaking of a $400 million Chesterfield Village Research Center expansion this week, marking what they are calling the “next generation for agriculture and St. Louis.”

According to the company, the new global hub for research, development and agricultural innovation will create 675 new jobs in St. Louis over the next three years.

“Our Chesterfield expansion is focused on strengthening our world-class capabilities in the discovery and development of innovations for farmers around the world,” said Hugh Grant, chairman and CEO of Monsanto during the event which included Missouri Governor Jay Nixon. “As we look to the future, and work begins to expand this research facility, I’m reminded how important our mission to work together to help farmers produce more nutritious food in a sustainable way will continue to be.”

“Today solidifies Missouri as the leading agriculture innovation hub in the country,” said Nixon. “Monsanto’s decision to expand its footprint and create hundreds of high tech, high paying jobs in this region is good for our state, our economy and our citizens.”

Instead of the traditional hard hats and shovels, the groundbreaking celebration featured the unveiling of an interactive 3D chalk mural with an agricultural theme.