Funding Secured for Wornall Bridge and West Bound Ward Parkway, Pedestrian Signal Advances

In its second year as a nonprofit, the Plaza District Council (PDC) announced a series of wins that improve safety, access, and the day-to-day experience in the greater Plaza District. After sustained advocacy with City leaders and community partners, funding is now allocated to restore the Wornall Bridge and to convert a key stretch of Ward Parkway to two-way traffic. The City has also confirmed the need for a pedestrian signal at the Sister City Bridge crossing at Ward Parkway, and PDC has submitted what is expected to be the final PIAC request to bring it to life.

Key wins

• Wornall Bridge restoration funded
  After more than three years of advocacy that included repeated PIAC requests and on-site walkthroughs with City leadership, funding is in place to restore this iconic gateway to the Country Club Plaza. 

• Pedestrian signal warranted at Sister City Bridge crossing
  Following four years of persistence, City pedestrian counts confirmed the need for a signal at Ward Parkway. PDC has submitted what they believe will be the fourth and final PIAC request to deliver this long-overdue safety upgrade. 

• West Bound Ward Parkway funded
  In May 2024, PDC met with the City’s traffic engineer to propose converting the one-way section of Ward Parkway at MLK Blvd to two-way traffic. After months of follow-up, funding has now been allocated to move the project forward, improving westbound flow and reducing conflicts at the KC Streetcar Plaza stop crosswalk. 

• Additional priority requests presented
  At the recent 6th District PIAC meeting, PDC presented three projects that support safety and access:
  • Mobility lane on the west side of Wornall Road from the InterContinental to Loose Park
  • Angled parking along Mill Creek Parkway
  • Funding for pedestrian  signal at Ward and Central 

Voices from the Plaza

“Neighbors and visitors deserve a Plaza District that is safe, connected, and easy to navigate. These wins are the result of steady collaboration with City staff, elected leaders, and community partners,” said Kate Marshall, President and CEO of the Plaza District Council. “We are grateful to everyone who walked the blocks with us, reviewed data with us, and helped turn advocacy into action.”

“From day one, PDC set out to be a practical problem solver for the Plaza,” said Mike Grigsby, Board Chair. “Securing funding for Wornall Bridge and West Bound Ward Parkway, and advancing the pedestrian signal at Sister City Bridge, shows what consistent engagement can accomplish.”

What’s next

PDC will continue working with the City, neighbors and property owners on design, phasing, and timelines of various infrastructure projects. We will; keep neighbors informed as construction schedules are set; and advocate for complementary improvements that enhance walking, biking, transit, and parking in the district.