Celebrating the Fourth at the Arch shows we must be cautious with ‘improvements’
Having seen the 4th at the Arch, it might be said -please, proceed with care in any changes to those magnificent grounds! In point of fact it would appear only periphery improvements, at the four points of the compass, are in order.
First, on the West, minimally from Market to Chestnut streets, the “lid” walkover of the Interstate 70 depressed lanes, that would literally reconnect the green space of the Saint Louis Riverfront via the green corridor of the City’s Gateway Mall.
Second, on the East, a revitalized “period” Port Saint Louis, -steamboat era whimsy, flexible for adapting to the ebb and flow of the Mississippi River.
Third, on the South overlook, a River Species Aquarium/Family Restaurant Center (perhaps in partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation.)
Fourth, on the North, overlooking the River, the Arch, the Eads Bridge, the Lewis and Clark Memorial Sculpture, renovation of the stark expanse of concrete that is the “grounds level” of the parking garage, into a multi-use facility that can serve as lower levels parking, at grounds level an Amphi-Theater/Band Shell, Market Place/Arts and Crafts Fair area.
The Arch, symbol of America’s Westward Expansion, identifies Saint Louis to hundreds of thousands around the world. What a great pity it would be to disfigure that beautiful green space opening to our city, with a plethora of structural “development.”
Ron Pohle
Mehlville
“The Arch, symbol of America’s Westward Expansion”
or, a symbol of people who left town.
For years the local elected suits and others have been saying they will do something to improve the areas around the Arch. This too shall pass.