May 5, 2026

Millions of people visit Gateway Arch National Park each year, and the Foundation is proud to support our hometown national park in creating an environment where each visitor has an unforgettable experience and makes lasting memories. One way we do this is through supporting projects like those listed below. While these projects may not be immediately noticeable, each effort, big and small, is part of our mission to help our Park shine brighter—none of which would be possible without your generous support.

The Old Courthouse, One Year Later
It’s been nearly one year since we reopened the Old Courthouse to the public after a $27.5 million renovation in partnership with the National Park Service. So, we checked in with Pam Sanfilippo, Acting Deputy Superintendent at Gateway Arch National Park, to hear how she has seen the visitor experience change since it reopened last spring. “Visitors and staff have commented about how much they enjoy the new exhibits—the accessibility, the interactive elements, and the content,” said Sanfilippo. “I’ve even heard that the galleries themselves just feel much more inviting with how bright the spaces are now that we have new windows that have UV protection rather than the dark curtains.” As the Foundation does at the Museum at the Gateway Arch, we also provide the funding for ongoing maintenance for the new museum galleries at the Old Courthouse. When needs arise in the galleries, the Foundation can move nimbly to complete repairs and important maintenance.

Waysides in Gateway Arch National Park
In 2025, the Foundation funded much-needed updates to interpretive waysides throughout the Arch grounds. Over time, the signs had become deeply faded and needed to be replaced. “It was to the point of being unreadable, in some cases,” said Sanfilippo. “While the content only changed to make some minor corrections, the new panels are easily readable with vibrant colors. They attract visitors who are walking through the Park.” Visitors can now more easily find their way around the Park, while learning about their surroundings along the way.

New Visitor and Tucker Theater Desks
While we provided an update about these desks in our last newsletter, these new desks continue to deliver positive experiences for both visitors, park rangers, and volunteers. These desks are much larger and welcoming, giving park rangers and park volunteers more space to assist visitors with general information, Junior Ranger activities, accessibility services, and park passes. “With the Arrowhead and the Park name, visitors are much more able to identify where to go when they enter the Visitor Center, especially if they have questions about services at the Park,” said Sanfilippo, when asked how it has improved the experience. “The new desk is much larger, allowing staff and volunteers to have necessary materials available at their fingertips. Designing the desk with space for wheelchairs has greatly improved our ability to efficiently serve individuals with mobility issues.”

Dred and Harriet Scott Statue Cleaning
The Dred and Harriet Scott statue that stands tall along the east-facing side of the Old Courthouse is a popular point of interest for park visitors. Because the statue must withstand changing weather elements throughout the year, the silica bronze sculpture requires periodic cleaning to prevent copper oxidation. Last year, the Foundation provided the funds for this maintenance, which was a marvel in itself, according to Jennifer Clark, Gateway Arch National Park’s Acting Program Manager for Museum Services & Interpretation. “It was extremely interesting to watch the statue cleaning,” said Clark. “I was expecting it to be cleaned with water and was amazed when it turns out that it is cleaned with fire! People walked by and were so fascinated by the process. The statue cleaner did a great job of making sure it looks brand new, also conveying his extensive knowledge and love for the art form and its rich history.”