The Plaza District continues to be an exciting and evolving place, with new businesses, transportation growth, development discussions, and community priorities all shaping the district’s momentum.

PIAC Funding Supports Improvements in The Plaza District

Several public improvement projects in the Plaza District have been approved for funding through Kansas City’s Public Improvements Advisory Committee (PIAC).

This year, a total of $1,263,000 in PIAC funding has been awarded to projects within our district, including:

• $275,000 for design work to replace the Roanoke Bridge

• $275,000 for design work to replace the Belleview Bridge

• $30,000 for grouting remaining exterior slate floor pavers in Loose Park

• $53,000 for handrail improvements and plaque cleaning in Bloch Cancer Survivors Park

• $350,000 for sidewalk improvements along Wornall (with additional $3M capital funding anticipated for related street improvements)

• $280,000 for a pedestrian HAWK signal at the north side of the Sister City Bridge

New Businesses Openings/Closings

Several new businesses have either been announced or opened in the Plaza District, adding fresh retail, culture, and shopping options for residents and visitors alike - including LoveShackFancy, Veronica Beard, J.H. & Sons, Vertice Italian, KCHouse, Mersea, and Alo. We were sad to see businesses like Johnny Was, Madewell, Three Dog Bakery, Francesca’s, and Psycho Bunny leave the district this year.

Country Club Plaza Redevelopment & Planning Discussions

A major ongoing conversation in the Plaza District is the Country Club Plaza redevelopment planning process. The City Planning Commission voted to advance a Master Planned Development (MPD) for the Plaza, setting the stage for future redevelopment as guided by the Plaza’s new owners, Gillon Property Group. The MPD now moves to the City Council for review. The Planning Commission also advanced the Plaza ownership group’s request to vacate adjacent sidewalks (transferring control and maintenance responsibilities to the property owner) which will likewise be considered by City Council.

Kansas City Symphony Announces Plans for South Plaza Venue

The Kansas City Symphony has announced plans for a new live music venue in the South Plaza area. The approximately 4,600-seat venue is expected to open in 2028 and will be owned by the Symphony in partnership with Music and Event Management Inc., which will manage operations. The space is expected to host more than 100 events annually, including touring artists and select Symphony performances. The Symphony will continue its primary concert programming at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

Below is a snapshot of the Infrastructure Committee’s current focus areas and upcoming initiatives:

Wornall Road- Plaza to Loose Park Shared-Use Sidewalk: This project aims to improve pedestrian and multi-modal connections between the Plaza and Loose Park.

HAWK Signal at Sister City Bridge: Based on the traffic counts, the intersection meets the warrants for Pedestrian signal and PIAC has been secured. We will monitor installation and provide updates.

Wornall Road Bridge Completion: With an estimated completion in May 2026, we are closely monitoring finishing elements to ensure the project is completed thoughtfully and safely.

Roanoke Bridge Repairs: A PIAC has been secured to fund the planning of repairs to the Roanoke Bridge, one of nine priority bridges included in KC’s Bridge Investment Program.

Green Infrastructure Work in Mill Creek Park: We continue to monitor major green infrastructure work at Mill Creek Park, part of Kansas City’s ongoing efforts to improve stormwater management and protect local waterways. The project is being implemented through the Smart Sewer program.

Ward Prkwy Two-Way Street Project: We are working to identify a start date for the two-way street project on Ward Parkway, North of the library. The project is fully funded. This is important for the recently announced Kansas City Symphony venue in South Plaza.

Additional Lighting South of Plaza Tennis Courts: We will be submitting a request for additional lighting along the new sidewalk south of the tennis courts to better serve streetcar passengers and improve nighttime visibility.

City Wayfinding Signage: We have coordinated on the City’s wayfinding signage project to ensure Plaza District destinations and routes are clearly and accurately represented. Installation is expected in July 2026.