SierraScape March 2013 - August 2013
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by Caroline Pufalt
Missouri Chapter Conservation Chair

The long awaited Gateway Arch grounds renovation is in the final stages of planning with ground breaking expected next year. The public private partnership will be managed by the well respected Great Rivers Greenway. The renovation will result in a covered walkway and greenspace over I-70, thus creating easier, safer and more pleasant access to the arch grounds. The grounds will then have additional walking paths. Drainage improvements to the lakes and a slight elevation of L.K. Sullivan walkway should improve visitor experiences. The parking garage on north side will be removed and replaced with greenspace and safer access to the Laclede area.

The project has received generous private donations, but taxpayers are also being asked to support it with a 3/16 per cent sales tax increase which will be on the April 2nd ballot in both St. Louis City and St. Louis County. The tax will not apply to food or medications. Sixty percent of the tax will go to arch projects and the remainder for regional parks and (greenspace) trails. Given the recent funding challenges facing local parks, this additional support would make a big difference.

When arch renovation plans were first discussed about 5 years ago the EMG Sierra Club executive and conservation committees discussed it and encouraged members to comment. We saw this as a good opportunity to enhance greenspace and public access. But we were also worried that there might be unwelcome introduction of commercialism and just more concrete in the changes. Fortunately the final plan is focusing on increasing greenspace and pedestrian access only. The renovations will improve the experience of visitors to the park and enhance the lives of downtown residents, thus making city living more attractive. Increased access will help connect the region to the Mississippi river. Thus the EMG executive committee recently voted to support this final plan and encourage members to do so also.

The Great Rivers Greenway network is also setting up a 30 member citizen's committee to oversee the Arch ground revision and other uses of the funds. If you are interested in participating see: www.grgstl.org/projects/cityarchriver-2015-project.aspx

The revision project also has an eastside component that is not included in the current proposal. Hopes for the eastside of river include the restoration of functioning wetlands and riverside habitat as well as a park with pedestrian access. Completion of that aspect of the renovation would help enhance the bi state region.