This compact created an organization that has broad powers in seven county-level jurisdictions, giving Bi-State the ability to plan, construct, maintain, own and operate bridges, tunnels, airports and terminal facilities, plan and establish policies for sewage and drainage facilities and other public projects, and issue bonds and exercise such additional powers as conferred upon it by the legislatures of both states.

That same year, Bi-State was instrumental in the creation of the East-West Gateway Council of Governments, the St. Louis region's metropolitan planning organization (MPO).

[1] In 1989, the agency would purchase the historic Eads Bridge during the planning of the area's initial MetroLink light rail line.

[7] In February 2022, Bi-State's Board of Commissioners voted to allow Metro Transit to take over operation of the troubled Loop Trolley.

[8] In August of the same year, East-West Gateway voted to provide $1.26 million in funding to Metro for long term operation of the trolley.

[10] In 2023, construction began on a 5.2-mile (8.4 km) MetroLink extension to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport in Mascoutah, Illinois with an expected opening in 2026.

[15] In 1962, Bi-State entered an agreement with the National Park Service that allowed for the construction of the Gateway Arch trams.

[4] In 1990 construction began on the region's initial MetroLink line, with the first 13.9-mile (22.4 km) segment opening on July 31st, 1993 between the North Hanley and 5th & Missouri stations.

[18] In 2023, construction began on a 5.2-mile (8.4 km) MetroLink extension to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport in Mascoutah, Illinois with an expected opening in 2026.