News & Issues

$95M Crossroads Apartment Proposal Clears First Hurdle, Challenges Remain

Updated June 28: The Kansas City Council approved the TIF amendment that will allow tax incentives to help build the project’s garage at its meeting Thursday. Renderings of the Track 215 project also were furnished by staff. The next step is seeking a property tax abatement from Port KC) By Kevin Collison Backers of a…

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Ambitious Plan to Revive Historic Troost Business District Proposed

By Kevin Collison A stretch of buildings in the heart of the historic Troost commercial district would be transformed into offices, retail space and a museum under a plan being pursued by development group that includes civic leader E. Frank Ellis. Ellis, past chairman and founder of Swope Community Enterprises, along with Tim Bowman of…

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Midland Project Wins Incentive Approval, Work Starts Early 2020

By Kevin Collison Work is expected to begin early next year on redeveloping the historic Midland office building into 117 affordable apartments following approval of tax incentives Thursday. The Planned Industrial Expansion Authority approved a 25-year property tax abatement to help finance the $24.3 million renovation plan for what’s called The Saxon at The Midland…

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The Rector House at 2000 E. 12th St.

United Inner City Services Hope Murals Bring Attention to the Rector House

Empty houses are still full of stories. The Rector House sits at 2000 E. 12th St., a two-story brick home with bright swirls of paint on plywood nailed across the windows and doors. The century-old house built for Sarah Rector, once called the “richest Black girl in America,” has been abandoned for nearly a decade….

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Streetcar Grille & Tavern Opening at 16th and Main This Summer

By Kevin Collison Kurt Oliver believes his new Streetcar Grille & Tavern expected to open this July at 16th and Main will have more than straphangers delivered to his door. “That corner has curb appeal,” he said. “We’re across from the northbound streetcar stop, a couple blocks from the Kauffman Center, close to hotels and…

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