H.R. 5254: Gateway Partnership Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Gateway Partnership Act of 2025, aims to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to make an agreement with the Gateway Arch Park Foundation. The agreement would allow the Foundation to host private events in the buildings of the Gateway Arch National Park. Here's a breakdown of the key components:

Definitions

• Foundation: Refers to the Gateway Arch Park Foundation, which is a nonprofit organization that partners with the Park.
• Park: Refers specifically to the Gateway Arch National Park.
• Park building: Includes:
  • The Arch Visitor Center.
  • The Old Courthouse.
  • Any other buildings managed by the Secretary of the Interior that are open to the public.
• Secretary: Refers to the Secretary of the Interior.

Gateway Arch National Park Agreement

The Secretary is given the authority to enter into an agreement that outlines the following:

• The Foundation may host private events at the Park, including access to Park buildings.
• The agreement must include terms to protect the Park's resources and values, which will cover:
  • Specific dates and times when the Foundation can exclusively hold events in designated Park buildings.
  • The maximum number of events allowed each week, and ensuring appropriate National Park Service staffing for these events.
  • Requirements for liability insurance that protects the interests of the U.S. government.
  • Provisions to protect the federal government from being held liable for damages or injuries during these events.
  • Any additional terms deemed appropriate by the Secretary.

Use of Park Buildings

Events hosted by the Foundation in Park buildings must adhere to certain guidelines:

• They should be consistent with the Park's purposes and fit with National Park Service programs.
• They must not degrade the integrity, appearance, or values of the Park.
• Events cannot interfere with public access to the Park or its facilities.

Cost Recovery

In establishing the agreement, the Secretary is required to:

• Charge fees to cover maintenance costs due to wear and tear from the private events.
• Recoup all costs associated with hosting the events, which includes administrative and personnel costs.

Existing Events

The bill does not prevent the National Park Service from hosting its own events or granting permits to other organizations for events within the Park or its buildings.

Relevant Companies

• None found.