Grounds surrounding Gateway Arch could see changes

ST. LOUIS — The National Park Service is seeking public input as it considers changes to the grounds of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

St. Louisans have talked for years about ways to better link architect Eero Saarinen’s (SEHR’-ih-nuhn) shimmering monument and the surrounding federal park to the rest of the city. It is cut off by Interstate 70.

The Park Service said a new plan could include a possible pedestrian walkway allowing visitors to move from downtown to the Arch more safely.

Former Sen. John Danforth is the chairman of a foundation that wants to better tie together the city’s downtown, the Arch grounds and the Mississippi riverfront. Danforth said he is pleased the Park Service is beginning a public planning process.