The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) announced that it has awarded Gateway Arch Park Foundation (“the Foundation”) a grant of more than $2.7 million for the Old Courthouse renovation project at Gateway Arch National Park through the Local Tourism Asset Development Grant Program. The program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and is focused on supporting projects that further the recovery of the tourism, travel and hospitality industries.

The Foundation is one of 26 recipients from across the state, and the Old Courthouse renovation is one of two St. Louis-based projects selected.

The Foundation, Gateway Arch National Park's philanthropic partner, applied for the grant in partnership with the National Park Service.

“We are thankful to Governor Mike Parson and his administration for recognizing the importance of this project to the vitality of Downtown St. Louis and are grateful to have been selected as a recipient,” said Ryan McClure, executive director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation. “The Old Courthouse is not just significant to us in St. Louis but to the entire country, and we’re thrilled that the State of Missouri chose to invest in renovating such a historic site for civil rights and educational site for students of all ages.”

“There are so many important American stories that will be told as part of the forthcoming new exhibits in the Old Courthouse, and this funding will directly support the park’s ability to share stories of the Old Courthouse, our justice system, and especially civil rights, and make them accessible to people of all ages and abilities,” said Pam Sanfilippo, program manager for Museum Services and Interpretation at Gateway Arch National Park. “We are so pleased that the state saw the renovation as a worthy project for this grant, and we’re grateful to our partners at Gateway Arch Park Foundation for their efforts to secure this important investment in our park.” 

“The tourism industry has an $18.4 billion impact on Missouri’s economy, supporting more than 280,000 jobs. It was also one of the hardest hit industries during the pandemic,” said Maggie Kost, acting director of the Department of Economic Development. “That’s why, through this program, we’re committed to investing in the recovery and future growth of Missouri tourism. This is just another way we’re building a stronger economy and creating greater opportunities for Missourians.”

The Local Tourism Asset Development Grant Program was launched in October 2022. The program awarded competitive grants to applicants, including destination marketing organizations (DMOs), convention and visitors bureaus, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and chambers of commerce affected by the pandemic. Grant awards will fund a variety of projects, such as welcome and recreation centers, property renovations, museum expansions, park improvements, indoor and outdoor attraction development, and more. Learn more about DED’s ARPA-funded grant programs at ded.mo.gov/arpa.