We also wanted to update the storytelling around the Arch, what it symbolizes historically (westward expansion and colonialism), and how it connects to the heart and soul of the city. Visitor numbers were declining, and we wanted to revitalize the project. Even though it was built in 1963 and was designed to withstand tornadoes and earthquakes, the Arch was becoming neglected. The Arch was almost like an island for a while. For example, a major highway separated the Arch from downtown St. There were lots of infrastructure barriers that made it difficult for community members to enjoy the park. Ryan: “Gateway Arch Park Foundation was born out of a shared desire by city officials, philanthropic residents, and the community to come together and address some of the unique challenges faced by the Arch. The Arch is definitely the centerpiece, but we also work in and around all the other aspects of downtown that support that centerpiece.”ĪDG: “That’s incredible! How did the Gateway Arch Park Foundation get its start?” But to answer your question, there are numerous public spaces that we work in beyond just the Arch itself, like the City Park River Project, Kiener Plaza, the Old Courthouse, the green spaces surrounding the Arch, the Museum, visitor center, and riverfront. Louis all but single-handedly funded the $380 million renovation and restoration project that went right into the park and surrounding areas. Just to show you how much the community cares about this park, the community of St. For example, renovations to the park and the Arch that we organized over the last few years entailed us going out into the city to interact with different communities, city planners, our partners at the National Park Service, philanthropic individuals, and community leaders. The Arch means a lot to the community, which means we end up doing a lot with the community inside and outside the park. It’s a structure that undeniably represents our city to the entire world. Louis to have a National Park in the middle of downtown. Our mission is to create a welcoming, vital, and well-supported environment for future generations to enjoy Gateway Arch.”ĪDG: “Fantastic! Is your group also in charge of programs and activities outside the park? How else does your group interact with the community?” Ryan: “Happy to be here! The Gateway Arch Park Foundation was established in 2009 as the official philanthropic partner of Gateway Arch National Park. Gateway Arch Park FoundationĪDG: “Great to have you with us, Ryan! Let me start by asking, what is the Gateway Arch Park Foundation? If you have an elevator pitch for what your group does, what would that be?” To help raise awareness for the organizations working hard every day to support the parks, we took some time this week to sit down with Ryan McClure, Executive Director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation. Read on to learn more about Gateway Arch National Park and the great projects Ryan’s group is involved with to keep Gateway Arch the iconic and instantly recognizable landmark that it is. Because we must preserve the parks so future generations can learn about these unique natural places, we also like to support the dozens of conservation groups protecting the parks. One of the most important features of the parks is the timeless nature and historical, cultural, and natural significance the parks embody. As artists and outdoor enthusiasts, our passion is to explore the 63 American National Parks, photograph and document them and share our enthusiasm for the parks by creating original, high-quality poster art.
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