The Kansas City Royals were recently in the headlines after they announced their plans for a new ballpark to replace the age old Kauffman Stadium.
While the team has been tight-lipped about their final decision, they revealed the names of the two different locations that are being considered.
A proposed stadium entertainment district in the East Village would cover 27 acres, from 8th Street in the north to 12th Street in the south, and Charlotte Street in the east to Cherry Street in the west.
Whereas, the second location, the North Kansas City location would be less dense and cover 90 acres, from Armour Road south to 16th Street and I-29 east to Erie Street, providing the Royals with greater opportunities for the development of commercial and residential properties.
Populous, a renowned Kansas City-based sports architecture firm, has crafted both plans for the Royals’ potential new home. With an impressive portfolio that includes the renovation or construction of over 20 stadiums in use across the MLB.
However, Royals’ President of Business Operations, Brooks Sherman, acknowledges that the decision regarding their future home is a generational one.
The K has been the home to the Royals for 50-plus years — been a great home — but it’s time for a new one,” Brooks Sherman. the Royals’ President of business operations acknowledged, ” It’s actually incredible that we have these two locations to even consider as a future home and sustain ourselves as a major league city.”
We’re excited to share the future vision of Royals baseball.
For more images and to learn about the economic impact of a ballpark district in both the East Village and North Kansas City, please visit: https://t.co/Cuz4H6wWD1 pic.twitter.com/KWbomvOo8B
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) August 22, 2023
The Royals’ decision to leave Kauffman Stadium two years ago was slowed down due the complex process of planning and deliberation.
With the proposed development of a $2 billion-plus ballpark and entertainment district, for years, the Royals and Chiefs have jointly benefitted from the shared sales tax revenue from Jackson County, which has been very helpful in maintaining these historic landmarks.
However, with the Royals considering a relocation, the Chiefs will have to facilitate the continuous development and maintenance of these venues.
Complicating matters further is the fact that both teams are tied to a lease with Jackson County, which does not expire until 2031.
This long-term commitment to the county means that the teams must negotiate their options carefully and consider the consequences of each decision.
Regardless of the chosen location, the Royals have made it clear that they are ready to invest around $1 billion in private funds for the new stadium project as they intend to move in in time for the 2028 season.
