Twelve transformative projects shaping Kansas City’s economic future

Kansas City is undergoing a remarkable period of growth, with transformative developments reshaping the region’s housing, entertainment, and infrastructure landscape. From major hospitality projects to expansive residential communities and retail revitalizations, these initiatives are strengthening the metro’s economic outlook and creating new opportunities for residents, businesses, and investors. Below is an overview of 12 significant developments contributing to Kansas City’s momentum.

1. Margaritaville Resort – Kansas City, KS

A new Margaritaville Resort is taking shape on the former water park site in western Kansas City. Scheduled to open in summer 2025, the resort will feature tropical-inspired accommodations, dining, and entertainment, bringing a vibrant destination experience to the region.

2. Mr. Wings Restaurant – Johnson County

Mr. Wings, known for its buffalo chicken, shrimp, and bold flavors, is relocating from Kansas City to Johnson County, introducing its popular menu to a broader customer base.

3. Kansas Stadiums Plan

Kansas lawmakers have approved a multi-billion-dollar bond proposal aimed at attracting the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals to new stadiums in Kansas. This ambitious plan represents a significant commitment to sports, entertainment, and regional economic development.

4. AdventHealth Sports Park – Overland Park

Set to open this fall, AdventHealth Sports Park will serve as a premier youth sports and entertainment destination, offering hockey rinks, zip lines, and family-friendly amenities. City leaders are exploring additional funding to further enhance the facility.

5. Chicken Salad Chick Expansion

Chicken Salad Chick is expanding its presence across the Kansas City metro with five new restaurant locations, including three in Johnson County. The chain’s emphasis on fresh ingredients and fan-favorite flavors continues to fuel its local growth.

6. Whataburger Expansion

Whataburger has opened another location in the Kansas City area, adding to the chain’s rapid national expansion and giving local fans more access to its signature menu.

7. Hyper Energy Bar – Johnson County

The energy drink drive-thru concept Hyper Energy Bar is launching its first Kansas City-area location in Johnson County, with plans for rapid metro-wide expansion.

8. Mabion Affordable Housing – Kansas City, MO

Construction began in October 2024 on the Mabion Apartments, a 57-unit affordable housing development named in honor of a local pastor. The project includes one- to three-bedroom units, with 11 homes designated for families experiencing homelessness.

9. Kansas City Streetcar Corridor Apartments

More than 400 new apartments are planned along the KC Streetcar line, with projected completion by 2027. Supported by local tax incentives, this initiative is part of Kansas City’s broader urban housing strategy to meet rising demand.

10. Indian Springs Mall Redevelopment – Kansas City, KS

The long-vacant Indian Springs Mall site may soon be transformed into a mixed-use development inspired by Kansas City’s River Market. Plans include nearly 1,500 apartments, a hotel, retail space, and a solar-powered community. Negotiations with developers are currently underway.

11. 18th & Vine Jazz District Parking Expansion

A new 470-space parking garage is being constructed in the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District to support the expansion of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. The project will improve visitor access and help fuel additional economic activity in the area.

12. Food Truck Corner Reopens – Kansas City, KS

A popular food truck hub in Kansas City has reopened after a temporary closure, restoring a key destination for local mobile dining and supporting the region’s culinary entrepreneurs.

All credit to the Article goes to the The Kansas City Star post