News & Issues
Fall Completion Expected for $65M Traders Apartment Redevelopment
By Kevin Collison A $65 million redevelopment of the historic Traders National Bank Building at 1125 Grand into 201 apartments is expected to be completed this fall. Sunflower Development Group and Block Real Estate Services are co-developers. Their project is transforming the 21-story building into a mix of studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments capped by…
Changed Locks: Getting Evicted in Wyandotte
It takes two minutes for the woman in the wheelchair to roll in front of Judge R. Wayne Lawson. It only takes another two minutes for her to be legally evicted. “You have to leave, just not today,” Lawson tells her. The plaintiff’s lawyer asks her to wait for him in the hallway. He still…
Landmark Western Auto Sign to Dazzle Downtown Skyline Again
(Updated June 25) The landmark Western Auto sign is scheduled to light up the skyline again on again July 13, according to a release today from building’s homeowner’s association and Copaken Brooks. If you’re looking for a souvenir, the old light bulbs from the sign will be available for purchase on July 9. For more…
The Return of the American Bison
North America’s largest mammal, the American bison, is an enduring symbol of the Great Plains. Bison once ranged from Canada to New Mexico and from Nevada to the Appalachian Mountains. By 1889, their populations were reduced from 30 to 60 million animals to fewer than 1000. Bison were pushed to the brink of extinction by…
Well-Known Westport Merchants Opposing Streetcar Expansion Plan
By Kevin Collison Several prominent Westport merchants have come out against the proposed streetcar extension from downtown to UMKC, apparently believing it won’t deliver enough new customers to justify the additional tax burden. In the latest campaign filing by SmartKC, a political committee opposed to the streetcar, Westport bars and restaurants including Kelly’s Westport Inn…