Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City’s riverfront could soon move into a much larger chapter, with Mayor Quinton Lucas introducing legislation that would support a major expansion of CPKC Stadium and push forward a wider redevelopment plan around the Missouri River.
The proposal centers on the home of the Kansas City Current, but its reach goes well beyond the soccer field. City officials are looking at what is expected to become a $1.4 billion project, one designed to grow the Berkley Riverfront into a larger sports, entertainment and mixed-use district.
If completed, the effort would build on one of Kansas City’s most visible recent investments: a stadium created for women’s professional soccer and led by the momentum around women athletes.
For Lucas, the pitch is about scale, timing and civic identity.
“The Kansas City Current presents one of the greatest success stories in our city’s recent history, and CPKC Stadium has already proven that world-class investment in women’s sports pays off,” said Mayor Lucas in a release.
“We look to build on the momentum, expanding a stadium district that will draw more visitors, create jobs, help Kansas City compete for more global and national events, and strengthen our riverfront for generations to come.”
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Under the legislation, city leadership would be directed to negotiate final deal terms with the Current. The City Council would still have the final say before the project could move ahead.
The plan would increase capacity at CPKC Stadium, add more parking, improve trail connections, bring in new shops and support further mixed-use development. That means the riverfront would not simply become a bigger game-day destination. The broader goal is to create a place where residents, visitors, workers and fans can move between public spaces, entertainment, housing and the natural edge of the Missouri River.
The city’s assistance would come through bonds supported by Current ownership, with additional investment from the State of Missouri also included in the proposed framework.
The legislation also looks beyond the stadium itself. Improvements to the Berkley Riverfront would include trails, public gathering spaces and amenities along the levee. City officials say those pieces are meant to keep expanded parks and outdoor areas accessible to Kansas Citians, especially near the urban core.
Supporters say the next phase could produce thousands of construction jobs, bring in new residents, increase tax revenue and draw more visitors to Kansas City. It would also enhance the fan experience at CPKC Stadium while giving the city more ability to compete for national and global events.
The ordinance is expected to be reviewed by the City Council later this month.
