Springfield Standard

Today, Senator Eric Schmitt and Representative Ann Wagner introduced the Gateway Partnership Act in Washington. The proposed legislation aims to allow the Gateway Arch National Park to enter into a cooperative agreement with their philanthropic partner, the Gateway Arch Park Foundation, to better manage and host private events for the broader St. Louis community.

“With the monumental renovations that have taken place at Gateway Arch National Park following the completion of the CityArchRiver project in 2018, the Arch Visitor Center is much more conducive for holding private events. These dynamic new spaces in the visitor center are ideal for holding social gatherings and other events that will leave a lasting impression of St. Louis’ defining monument. This common-sense legislation will streamline management of private event execution and marketing on behalf of the park and is a net-positive for the city of St. Louis,” said Senator Eric Schmitt.

“I am proud to join my friend, Senator Schmitt, in introducing the Gateway Partnership Act. This bill will attract new economic opportunities for the Gateway Arch, the enduring landmark of the greater St. Louis region and our great State of Missouri. Thanks to tremendous investment from community organizations, the renovated Arch Visitor Center has seen a revitalized demand for event space, and this legislation builds on that public-private partnership to ensure the Arch is more easily accessible for constituent groups in my district and those visiting from across the nation,” said Congresswoman Ann Wagner.

Since 2018, nearly 30 private events have been managed by the Gateway Arch Park Foundation at this location. Before COVID-19 disrupted plans, they averaged 15 events per year with an aim to manage 25 in 2020 due to rising demand. The proposed legislation would enable formal management of private event execution and marketing by allowing a partnership between Gateway Arch National Park and its philanthropic partner.

Projections indicate potential annual revenue generation of $780,000 from private events under this partnership framework. Representative Ann Wagner (R-MO-02) has introduced a companion bill in the House.