The iconic St. Louis Arch on the Mississippi river is an impressive structure and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United States. Built in 1965, the Gateway Arch stands 630 feet (192 meters) tall and serves as a memorial to Thomas Jefferson’s role in the westward expansion of the United States. It also acts as an excellent vantage point to see the Mississippi river stretching out to either side.
The site of the Arch had originally been used as a trading and docking point since the eighteenth century. The site was also an important part of the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition and it stands as a reminder of their lengthy journey to the west.
The construction of the Arch was a complex and highly calculated undertaking. The design of the Arch was the result of a competition by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, who won the bid in 1947. Construction began in 1962 and completed in 1965. What’s notable about the construction of the arch is the engineering and technology used in developing the infrastructure. Towering portions of the Arch had to be constructed separately and then hoisted up before connecting.
The Arch consists of stainless steel clad, which was a crucial to its durability. The stainless steel was heat-treated to resist corrosion and give the structure a longer life. The piers of the Arch are constructed out of reinforced concrete. This combination of materials helps the structure remain standing even during a large storm.
The two legs of the Arch are lined with elevators that take tourists past a series of windows as they make their way to the top. The elevators make it possible for visitors to get a bird’s eye view of the entire city. From this angle, they can see the Mississippi River stretching out to the horizon and the various bridges that cross it. It’s an incredible sight, and many have described it as one of the most majestic views in the world.
The tunnel beneath the Arch serves as an important part of its infrastructure. The tunnel is used to house the mechanical and electrical systems that operate the Arch. It also houses a museum that displays sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts related to the Arch and St. Louis.
Maintenance & Care
The structure of the Arch is well managed and maintained. The steel parts of the Arch are scrubbed and painted every two to three years, while the concrete parts are routinely inspected and repaired if any damages are found. The mechanical and electrical components of the Arch are monitored on a daily basis to ensure that everything is running smoothly.
Outside of maintenance, there are also educational and cultural initiatives associated with the Arch. The Arch provides educational opportunities for those interested in learning about its history, construction and the surrounding area. They offer tours led by certified guides, who provide information on the architecture, history and culture of the surrounding region.
The St. Louis Arch is an incredible structure with a long history and a powerful sense of American pride. It stands tall and proud, a reminder of the important role St. Louis and the Mississippi River have played in the history of the United States.
Local Revitalization Effort
In recent years, there has been a major effort to revitalize the local area around the Arch. This effort has brought in jobs and established businesses, making the riverfront a revitalized and vibrant area. Businesses catering to tourists and locals alike have opened up shop close to the Arch, helping to make the area a lively and exciting place to visit.
The local government has also invested heavily in parks and bike/running trails that lead out to the Arch. It has become a major attraction for those looking for a spiritual journey and for families who want to take in the sights. Millions of visitors come every year to view the Arch and experience the variety of sights and sounds it has to offer.
The revitalization effort has also lead to the development of additional tourist attractions and activities around the Arch. Now visitors can take river cruises, hop on a Segway tour, or visit the nearby City Museum. It has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, with its rich history and beautiful views it’s no wonder why.
Environmental Impact
The Arch also stands as a reminder that conservation efforts must be taken seriously to keep the area around it safe. The riverfront hosts an abundance of wildlife, such as turtles, migrating birds, and amphibians, and conservation efforts are aimed to keep the area clean of pollution and waste. Businesses and organizations in the area regularly collaborate with local authorities to ensure the environment is safe and well protected.
The Arch stands as proof of the power of conservation, and it is a reminder of the importance of taking care of our natural environment. Visitors can enjoy its beauty and the variety of activities it provides without causing any harm to its fragile environment.
Economic Impact
The impact that the Arch has had on the local economy cannot be overstated. The riverfront is now one of the most popular places for people to visit in St. Louis. This has been driven by businesses that have set up shop and events such as the St. Louis Symphony and the Great Forest Park Balloon Race. It has become a major source of revenue for the area and has encouraged further investment.
The Arch has also served to increase tourism and exposure of the area to the world. People travel from all over the world to see what St. Louis has to offer and the Arch serves as one of its main attractions. This has had a profound impact on the local economy, as more businesses and organizations move into the area to benefit from the increased exposure.
Symbol of the Westward Expansion
The Arch stands tall as a towering beacon for the United States’ past, present, and future. It stands as an enduring symbol of the nation’s past triumphs and struggles, and as a reminder that America is not just a country, but an idea. It is an embodiment of the spirit of exploration and compassion for others, something that can be seen around the world in both the United States’ culture and foreign policy.
The Arch also serves as a symbol of uniting the country from the start of the nation to the present. The arch’s form resembles the arch of the nation, as it stretches over the Mississippi river, connecting east and west to each other. It serves as a physical reminder of how far the United States has come and how far it still has to go.
The Legacy of the Arch
The St. Louis Arch stands as a symbol of pride in the progress and spirit the United States has long been known for. It is a reminder of the determination that has been seen throughout its history and that will continue to drive American society to greatness. For all its practical use, the Arch will remain an influential symbol of the grandeur and greatness of the United States.
The Arch stands tall and proudly over the Mississippi river, as a reminder of the courage, tenacity, and passion for exploration that has long been a part of the American life. Its structure stands as a symbol of unity in the United States, of progress and achievement, and of a better future.
