Any attempt by the city of St. Louis to take over the grounds of the Gateway Arch should be met with resistance by the federal government.

For years, the city has used this space to hold what was the V.P Fair and every year, it seems there was damage to the grounds with costly repairs being made. This was not the original idea in planning and building the Arch.

For someone to suggest it would improve the grounds by building an overpass for access, or to promote the idea that there should be other attractions on the arch grounds is wrong.

Looking out the window of a high rise is tunnel vision. Try looking at the overall picture to include the entire area. Look north and south too.

Lacledes Landing is a disgrace to the city. Try driving on any of the streets on the landing without fear of major damage to your car. These brick streets, when this area was developed years ago, were meant for horse and wagon traffic, not buses, trucks, or cars.

Look at how deep some of the holes in these streets are. It should not be long before one opens up and swallows a vehicle. People have to take care when crossing the street to avoid twisting or turning something or falling only to have a serious injury.

Some of these buildings are an eyesore. The alleys are dirty and smell. People think they can park anywhere they want, only to cause congestion or traffic problems.

Look south and you see empty buildings or an area in need of development too. No one even thinks of driving or parking in this area.

If someone wants to do something for the riverfront, take a look at how cities like Baltimore,  Maryland, Savannah, Georgia, or other major cities located on the river have developed their riverfronts.

Leave the Gateway Arch property alone. How many times will you repair this property?

How many times will you pay for this property. It was built as a monument, not a fair grounds.

Imagine restaurants on the grounds with trash trucks making pickups or delivery trucks parked all over. The grass will disappear to make drives for vehicles. People will start parking anywhere, and soon it will look just like Lacledes Landing or a huge McDonalds. 

Jim Kozlowski

St. Louis