Bell, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Gateway Partnership Act

Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Ann Wagner (R-Mo.) introduced the bipartisan 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,” said Congressman Bell. “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 — which led the $380 million CityArchRiver Project that transformed Gateway Arch National Park— has supported numerous successful events at the Arch grounds. Demand for access to these revitalized spaces continues to grow. This legislation gives the Foundation a formal role in coordinating private event use in partnership with the National Park Service, including at the Gateway Arch Visitor Center and the Old Courthouse.

“We’ve proven that events at Gateway Arch National Park create positive impact for Downtown St. Louis and our entire region. This legislation will make hosting private events much easier going forward,” said Ryan McClure, executive director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation. “Each gathering brings new visitors and economic activity to St. Louis, in an iconic setting that undeniably represents our city to the entire world. We are incredibly grateful to Representatives Bell, Wagner and Budzinski and Sen. Eric Schmitt for their support for this initiative.”

U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.) is a cosponsor of this legislation.

Read the full bill here.

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