Economic Opportunity
Small Businesses Shocked by Low NFL Draft Sales, Now Wary of World Cup
A massive surge in visitors and foot traffic as Kansas City hosted its first NFL Draft failed to generate sales for small businesses outside the event grounds.
Late Summer Opening Anticipated for Strang Food Hall at Plaza
By Kevin Collison The new Strang Chef Collective food hall planned for the Cascade Hotel being just north of the Country Club Plaza is considered by its operator a “bullish” vote of confidence in the venerable shopping district. “We’ve always targeted the Plaza as an opportunity to bring our chef-driven concept,” said Shawn Craft, CEO…
Puttery, ‘Uniquely Themed’ Miniature Golf, Rolling into Plaza
(Editor’s note: This article originally was published March 14, 2022. Construction has begun on the project and a Fall opening is anticipated.) By Kevin Collison Puttery, an “immersive” entertainment concept that adds cocktails, technology and food to the classic miniature golf game is coming to the Country Club Plaza, a much-needed addition to the Plaza…
Aloft Hotel Opens at Plaza; Strang Food Hall Coming Next Door
By Kevin Collison The new Aloft hotel has opened on the north edge of the Country Club Plaza, bringing a contemporary vibe to the venerable shopping district that includes a spacious “re-mix” lobby anchored by the WXYZ Bar. “We very much believe in the unique environment of the Plaza, the experience is unlike anything else…
Plaza Area Council Now Official, Plans to Boost District’s Next Century
By Kevin Collison A new civic effort to shepherd the Country Club Plaza and environs into its second 100 years has organized as a nonprofit, and plans to hire staff and begin pursuing its goals by the end of the year. What’s called the Plaza Area Council intends to be an umbrella organization for looking…