Date: October 27, 2009
Contact: Frank Mares, 314-655-1600
Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Releases Final Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement
The planning process for this Final GMP/EIS began in early 2008. Since the process started, National Park Service (NPS) staff members have conducted an extensive public involvement and outreach program, meeting with nearly 1000 people in 11 public informational meetings. The Final GMP/EIS was crafted from the valuable public comment received on the draft plan, and includes revisions to the preferred alternative based upon this input.
Copies of the plan are available on the internet through a link at www.nps.gov/jeff, and also directly on the Planning, Environment and Public Comment website at http://parkplanning.nps.gov
Following distribution of the plan and a 30-day no-action period, a “Record of Decision” will be signed by Superintendent Tom Bradley and NPS Regional Director Ernest Quintana documenting the selection of the alternative to be implemented.
Superintendent Bradley said, “Interest in the General Management Plan for the memorial has been high, and St. Louisans have displayed an incredible knowledge of the site and its future possibilities. I have nothing but admiration and appreciation for the suggestions, comments and encouraging dialog we have had with the people of St. Louis and the surrounding area on this plan. Working together, we have achieved a balance between the restrictions of our National Historic Landmark status and the potential of the site to make connections with the city and the Illinois side of the river, while at the same time improving the visitor experience. We now look forward to an exciting design competition as part of the preferred alternative, which will provide unique and creative solutions to current problems and add dynamic new elements to the park.”
For more information please visit our website at www.nps.gov/jeff or call (314) 655-1600.
