Economic Development

The $4 billion Panasonic plant opened this summer in the Kansas town, but has delayed its goals for full production. But its impact can already be felt in new housing projects and an incoming data center.

The Kansas City Council ended its years-long agreement to stop the economic tug of war between the Kansas and Missouri sides of the metro. Both states offered big incentives to the Chiefs and Royals, but neither team have said yet where they'll go.

The two-acre site will feature a Bierhalle, working brewery, event space, amphitheater, covered patio, children’s play area and off-leash dog park.

Leaders say the LEED Gold-certified data center bolsters Kansas City's reputation as a tech hub. Operated by the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, the facility also expects to support more than 100 permanent jobs.

Most people think of California for surfing. But surfers can be found from Wisconsin to Texas on lakes, rivers and even man-made water parks.

The eastern portion of Brush Creek, near Kansas City's Black neighborhoods, is often prone to trash and debris. Community members are calling on city leaders to clean up and improve the area.

SomeraRoad, a real estate and development firm, is undertaking a massive redevelopment project that will transform the West Bottoms over the next several years. The firm hopes to make the Kansas City neighborhood into a must-see "destination."

Cosmo Burger XR has a grand opening slated for July 7-11. The smash burger joint first launched in October 2020 out of a tiny kitchen in a Waldo bar, and is now joining a vibrant restaurant scene in the Crossroads.

Experts say the Panasonic plant could tap the breaks on hiring while it waits out economic uncertainty. The company can still collect hundreds of millions of dollars from Kansas even if it does.

The 22-acre development along Independence and Hardesty avenues will include an apartment building, a public market, coworking and community gathering spaces. The developer hopes it can become a “third space” for residents of the Historic Northeast.

Gov. Mike Kehoe said Friday that he will call back lawmakers for a special session to consider a counteroffer that would keep both Kansas City teams in Missouri. He called it an economic development package.

Kansas City’s new streetcar has spurred the construction of more than 1,400 new apartment units along Main Street since 2017. These are some of the highlights, including historic renovations and new buildings.