Future plans for the old stadium land

Jackson County is already planning what will happen to the big sports area after the Chiefs leave. The team’s lease ends in 2031, and they plan to move across state lines to a new $3 billion stadium in Kansas. The Royals are also moving out of Kauffman Stadium, so the county must decide how to use 400 acres of land that will soon be empty.

A Vision for Continuous Activity

County Executive Phil LeVota wants the site to stay busy, not just become a vacant field. He is forming a task force with 10–15 business leaders, developers and community members. They have three months to give suggestions, though the final list of participants is still being finalized.

LeVota’s goal isn’t just quick money. He wants the area to grow slowly, with space for small businesses and long‑term jobs. The old stadiums could be turned into something new, or they might be torn down and replaced with parks, shops or entertainment venues. He wants the land to become a lively part of the region’s economy for years to come.

Chiefs’ Move and State Support

The Chiefs’ move is already underway. Kansas lawmakers have approved bonds that will fund up to 70 % of the new stadium’s cost, using tax revenue from sales and liquor taxes in the surrounding district. A new state act is also being drafted to manage the construction, financing and operation of sports facilities.

Drafting a New Master Plan

While the Chiefs prepare for their new home, Jackson County is drafting a vision for its own complex. Current renderings show the parking lots turning into mixed‑use spaces with shops, tennis courts and an amphitheater. The county plans to look beyond the stadiums themselves, considering nearby neighborhoods that could benefit from the redevelopment.

After the task force finishes its work, an independent consultant will create a detailed plan. A master redevelopment commission will then guide the project for five years, ensuring it stays on track and serves the community’s long‑term interests.

A Long‑Term Transformation

The county is not waiting for 2031 to decide. It is turning a game‑day hub into a year‑round destination that could shape the area long after the teams have moved on.