## Can the Royals’ Future Be Built on Broken Promises? K.C. Business Leaders Weigh In After Stadium Vote
The air in Downtown Kansas City is thick with anticipation, but not the good kind. After a nail-biting vote, the fate of the Kansas City Royals’ stadium hangs in the balance, leaving a city divided and its business leaders scrambling for answers.
This isn’t just about baseball. This is about the future of a region, its economic vitality, and the power of public investment. KSHB 41 has spoken to the movers and shakers of Downtown Kansas City, and their reactions paint a complex picture of hope, skepticism, and a simmering concern that another promise might be broken.
Local Enthusiasm
Following the passage of Senate Bill 3, also known as the Show-Me Sports Investment Act, Kansas City business leaders have voiced their strong support for keeping the Royals and Chiefs in Jackson County. The bill, passed by Missouri state leaders, aims to provide financial incentives to retain the two major sports franchises within the state.
“You’re making an investment here that’s gonna last the next 60-100 years. Let’s do it right,” stated Kelley Hrabe, a multifamily housing developer, during the monthly KC Downtowners Luncheon. This sentiment was echoed by Jan Marcason, former Kansas City councilmember, who emphasized the positive impact the stadium project could have on the city’s already thriving downtown area.
“The development downtown is doing very well,” Marcason said. “I think that [the stadium] would just be the icing on the cake.” Eddie Crane, a resident and business owner in downtown Kansas City, expressed his excitement for a potential downtown stadium location, stating, “I want the Royals stadium in Washington Square, like six blocks from my house. That would be dynamite.”
These statements highlight the palpable excitement among local business leaders who see the potential for a new stadium to further elevate Kansas City’s downtown core.
Investment and Legacy
The proposed stadium project represents a significant long-term investment for Jackson County, with the potential to reshape the local landscape for generations to come. Beyond the immediate economic boost from construction and operation, a new stadium could attract new businesses, residents, and investments to the surrounding area, creating a ripple effect of growth and development.
The creation of a new entertainment district around the stadium could further enhance the area’s appeal, attracting tourists and residents alike. This influx of visitors would generate revenue for local businesses, create jobs, and boost the overall economic vitality of downtown Kansas City.
Furthermore, a successful stadium project could serve as a catalyst for further development in the surrounding neighborhoods, potentially leading to revitalization efforts, improved infrastructure, and enhanced quality of life for residents.
Uncertainty Remains
Despite the optimism surrounding Senate Bill 3, the future location of the new stadium remains uncertain. While Kansas City business leaders are advocating for a downtown location, Kansas and Clay County are also vying for the opportunity to host the Royals and Chiefs.
Some experts point to the existing sports infrastructure in Kansas, including the Kansas Speedway and Sporting Kansas City’s Children’s Mercy Park, as a potential advantage for those counties. The proximity of these venues could create a “sports hub” attracting fans and generating significant economic activity.
Jason Osborne of Rosemann & Associates noted, “Argument can be made that going out towards the Legends or some other location in Kansas still has the connectivity of sports with the soccer stadiums and the speedway out there, and I think that has some merit.” This ongoing debate underscores the importance of a comprehensive and transparent process for selecting the optimal location for the new stadium.
The Game Plan: Addressing Concerns and Charting a Path Forward
While the passage of Senate Bill 3 is a significant step forward, the success of the stadium project hinges on addressing the concerns of the community and ensuring a transparent and inclusive planning process.
Concrete Plans Needed
A key concern raised by downtown residents and business leaders is the lack of concrete plans for the stadium project. They are calling for clear timelines, comprehensive financing details, and a well-defined vision for the surrounding development.
Eddie Crane, a resident and business owner in downtown Kansas City, emphasized the need for transparency and decisive action, stating, “It seems that we’re all adults, you can easily present a plan, you can come to a conclusion and we can move forward as a collective.”
Affordable Housing
Another pressing issue is the potential impact of the stadium project on affordable housing in downtown Kansas City. As development intensifies, there is a risk that rising property values and construction costs could displace residents who rely on affordable housing options.
It is crucial for city officials and developers to prioritize the preservation and expansion of affordable housing throughout the planning and construction process. This includes exploring strategies such as inclusionary zoning, community land trusts, and partnerships with non-profit housing organizations.
Community Engagement
To ensure a successful stadium project that benefits all stakeholders, it is essential to foster ongoing dialogue and collaboration between city officials, business leaders, and residents.
Regular public forums, online engagement platforms, and community advisory committees can provide opportunities for residents to voice their concerns, share their ideas, and contribute to shaping the future of downtown Kansas City. Transparency and inclusivity are vital for building trust and ensuring that the stadium project serves the best interests of the entire community.
Conclusion
The vote on the Missouri stadium project has sent ripples through Downtown Kansas City, sparking both excitement and trepidation among business leaders. While many see the potential for economic growth, job creation, and a revitalized urban core, others express concerns about the hefty public investment and the potential displacement of existing businesses. The debate boils down to a fundamental question: is the promise of a modern stadium and its associated benefits worth the financial risk and potential social consequences?
The outcome of this vote will undoubtedly shape the future of Downtown Kansas City. If approved, the stadium could become a catalyst for a major resurgence, attracting new businesses, tourists, and residents. However, if the project falters, it could leave the city grappling with financial burdens and a missed opportunity for revitalization. Regardless of the final decision, this debate underscores the complex interplay between public investment, economic development, and the well-being of a city’s residents. As Kansas City navigates this crucial juncture, the city’s leaders must carefully weigh the potential rewards against the inherent risks, ensuring that any future development truly serves the best interests of the community.
This isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about the heart and soul of a city. The choice made today will echo for generations to come, shaping the landscape of Downtown Kansas City and the lives of its people.