Civic Affairs
East-West Streetcar Could Cost $600M, Need New Funding Source
(Editor’s note: This article originally was published Feb. 10, 2023) By Kevin Collison Kansas City has reached the end of the track when it comes to expanding its streetcar system unless it adopts a broader approach to local funding, according to a new study exploring a potential east-west route. It would cost $450- to $600…
Four Former KC Mayors Talk Shop at Plaza Library Event
(Editor’s note: This article originally was published Jan. 30, 2023) By Kevin Collison It was a unique gathering last week when four former KC mayors discussed the perennial issues confronting the occupant of City Hall’s 29th floor including crime, East Side redevelopment, affordable housing and Jefferson City. The executive quartet brought together at the Plaza…
Royals Ballpark Decision Expected Late Summer, Could Open by 2027
By Kevin Collison Royals owner John Sherman says his club will choose a ballpark location by late summer, adding the delay in deciding between downtown and North Kansas City lies with other players involved who don’t share his team’s urgency. “We’re waiting on a few people and we understand their reasons why they’re not as…
KCATA Pulls Plug on High-Rise Plan, Dissolving Development Agency
By Kevin Collison The KCATA has dropped an ambitious high-rise proposal at 10th and Main and is dissolving its transit-oriented development arm, RideKC Development Corp., an agency with a spotty track record. Commissioners recently approved ending a contract with Live & Ride KC. The development group had proposed a 20-story mixed-use tower at the former…
Developer Rescues Historic Seiden’s Fur Building; What’s Next?
By Kevin Collison Developer Chris Sally has swooped in to save a long-neglected, historic building in the heart of downtown that had been slated to be demolished this week. The big question now is, what is he going to do with it? “We called the owner on Sunday and got it under contract yesterday,” Sally…