Civic Affairs
‘Long Overdue’ 18th & Vine Plan Wins Strong Council Backing
By Kevin Collison A redevelopment proposal that preserves historic facades and builds apartments and retail in the 18th and Vine District was approved overwhelmingly by the City Council Thursday after being hailed by its sponsor as a “good day for Kansas City.” “We’ve come to the point where we have an agreement with an entity…
18th & Vine Concept Called ‘Beale Street,’ Sparks Council Clash
By Kevin Collison A $23 million mixed-use redevelopment proposal backed by Mayor Quinton Lucas that would add apartments and retail space to the 18th and Vine District is being opposed by Council members who fear it would turn the area into another “Beale Street.” “On this first day of Black History, we are working to…
Downtown Living Gets High Marks from People in Survey, Less So Dogs
(Editor’s Note: This article originally was published May 7, 2021) By Kevin Collison It still may be a challenging place to shop or bike ride, but regardless, a new survey of downtown residents finds an overwhelming majority very satisfied they chose to live in the heart of the city. The 45-question survey conducted last winter…
Regional Skate Park, Artworks, Could ‘Enhance’ New Buck O’Neil Bridge
By Kevin Collison Creating a regional skate park beneath the approach ramps to the new Buck O’Neil Bridge is among the ideas in a report prepared by a group tasked to enliven what’s now a bland infrastructure project. Work is well underway on the $220 million replacement span that will carry US 169 traffic over…
Pembroke Ward Parkway Campus Completes $52M Expansion
By Kevin Collison Pembroke Hill has completed a $52 million expansion of its Ward Parkway Campus that includes a new athletic center and a dining hall illuminated by windows featuring striking sculptural screens. The new 53,000 square-foot Bellis Athletic Center replaces the aging Pierson gymnasium and expands the private school’s ability to host athletic and…