Kansas City unveils $600M plan for Royals downtown stadium
Kansas City Star • • sports
Key Points:
- Kansas City officials plan to introduce a $1.9 billion funding proposal for a downtown Royals stadium at Washington Square Park, with the city contributing about $600 million, aiming to open by Opening Day 2030.
- Mayor Quinton Lucas will present an ordinance authorizing negotiations for a 30-year lease and development agreement with the Royals, though the team has not yet committed to the deal.
- The proposal excludes a public vote, which has faced opposition in the past, and relies on a public-private partnership funded by bonds, city appropriations, Tax Increment Financing, and potential state contributions.
- The stadium would be part of a larger entertainment district near Crown Center and Union Station, designed to connect key downtown areas and include ancillary development such as retail, restaurants, and offices.
- The Royals have explored multiple sites, including suburban Kansas, but fan preference and team owner John Sherman favor a downtown location, contingent on securing site control and public financing.
