Port KC has approved a package of tax incentives for a new 278-unit apartment complex just north of the Cascade Hotel, by the Country Club Plaza, with 296 garage spaces. The $91.7 million project, led by Overland Park-based EPC Real Estate Group, will be built on the site of the Plaza Broadway Apartments—a four-building complex that currently houses 45 affordable units that are mostly vacant, and unusable,  The new development, called Lewer Plaza, will include a five-story building atop a two-level parking garage and is expected to generate approximately $5.3 million for local jurisdictions in new property tax revenue over 20 years, more than doubling the $1.9M that the current structures yield in tax revenues.

The project has sparked debate among city leaders, housing advocates, and public service officials. Supporters argue that the Plaza area needs greater residential density to attract retail, dining, and transit investment and noted the importance of bringing more workforce housing options to central Kansas City, while Port KC commissioners emphasized the development’s long-term infrastructure benefits. EPC pledged $1 million to the city’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

Opponents, however, raised concerns about the permanent loss of affordable housing and the immediate impact on public service funding. Critics warned that the tax breaks would reduce revenues for schools, libraries, and emergency services. They also questioned whether the $1 million donation would truly offset the demolition of the 45 affordable units. The Port KC board ultimately voted 5–1 in favor of the incentive package.