U.S. Rep. Wesley Bell was part of a bipartisan group of House members to introduce the Gateway Partnership Act of 2025, legislation that would allow the National Park Service to work directly with the Gateway Arch Park Foundation to host private events in Park buildings — turning underused public space into an economic and cultural engine for the city.
“The Arch is one of the most iconic places in America — and it’s ours,” Bell said.
“For generations it has been where we welcome visitors, celebrate our history, and show off the heart of St. Louis. This bill helps us make better use of the space — not just to host events, but to keep driving energy, investment, and life into downtown. I am proud to introduce this commonsense bipartisan bill which will foster regional growth for St. Louis.”
The Gateway Arch Park Foundation, best known for leading the $380 million CityArchRiver Project, has backed many events on the Arch grounds. With demand for the space growing, the new legislation would give the foundation an official role in coordinating private events with the National Park Service, including at the Arch Visitor Center and Old Courthouse.