The long-vacant Millennium Hotel, a once vibrant part of downtown St. Louis, is poised for revitalization as the Gateway Arch Park Foundation has entered into a contract to acquire the property. The foundation is collaborating with city officials, the St. Louis Development Corporation, and Greater St. Louis Inc. to develop a plan to breathe new life into the site. St. Louis Public Radio reported the foundation's commitment to transforming the space into a vibrant, accessible, and memorable part of the city.
Executive Director Ryan McClure shared the foundation's vision, stating, "This project perfectly aligns with our mission to better connect Gateway Arch National Park and its surroundings to the rest of Downtown." He emphasized the potential benefits for residents and tourists, despite the challenges of redeveloping a property that has been unused since 2014, generating interest and speculation about future possibilities. Further details about the purchase and redevelopment plans are expected to be disclosed at a press conference scheduled for this morning, as indicated by the foundation in an announcement shared by KSDK.
Adding to the city's momentum in addressing major downtown challenges, Jason Hall, CEO of Greater St. Louis Inc., expressed confidence in the new partnership and past successes of the foundation. According to a statement shared by KSDK, Hall sees this unique and complex project as a significant step forward for the urban core of St. Louis. The Millennium Hotel, recognized by the iconic revolving restaurant atop its 28-story structure, now stands as a beacon of potential transformation.
On a related note, Greater St. Louis Inc. and the St. Louis Development Corporation announced the status of the Railway Exchange Building, another downtown landmark seeking revival. The city has extended an offer to purchase the building from its current owners, Hudson Holdings, with a deadline for acceptance before considering eminent domain to take over the property, which has suffered years of neglect, break-ins, and theft since the departure of its former occupants, Famous-Barr and Macy’s. FOX 2 Now reported on the city's proactive stance in rejuvenating the area.
