Civic Affairs
KC Homeless Center Scores $50K Game Day Gift from NFL, Little Caesars
By Kevin Collison It was the kind of pre-game Chiefs gathering that occurred all around Kansas City Thursday, people munching pizza, getting pumped with loud DJ music and even a guest appearance by KC Wolf. But this one had a surprise delivered by the NFL and Little Caesars, a $50,000 donation to the Downtown Community…
Local Plaza Backers See Silver Lining in Ownership Default
By Kevin Collison The owners of the Country Club Plaza’s default on their loan has raised the possibility of new management and lifted hopes of Plaza advocates about the future of the venerable shopping district. “For now, I am choosing to be optimistic that a new owner will bring new energy and abundant resources to…
Affordable Apartments in Way of Potential East Village Ballpark
By Kevin Collison In a twist on the story line the East Village sorely needs investment, the only project built there since it was designated a redevelopment zone in 2005 would need to be demolished if the Royals choose it for their ballpark. And Community Builders of Kansas City wants to leverage that affordable apartment…
Mayor Backs Group Pushing for a ‘Pedestrianized Plaza’
By Kevin Collison A new group with the mayor’s ear is pushing to convert some Country Club Plaza streets to pedestrian use, the latest expression of public concern over the direction of the venerable civic landmark. The loose-knit group of civic-minded, mostly younger adults call themselves Urban Lab KC. A conceptual rendering it posted on…
Royals Unveil Ballpark Development Concepts for Downtown and North KC
By Kevin Collison When it comes to designing a new Royals ballpark district in downtown Kansas City or North Kansas City, both have two things in common, the ballpark itself would hold 38,000 fans and be oriented south-southeast. After that, there are sprawling differences in how the surrounding ballpark developments would unfold, according to the…