Public transit or paid parking at Berkley Riverfront? The question is up for consideration by Kansas City officials + Port KC, as detailed by a proposal for a ~1,500-space parking garage near CPKC’s south end.
Transportation has been a hot button issue in the area since the Current debuted their new home — and its limited parking capacity — in March. In place of space for cars, fans were encouraged to walk, bike, rideshare or take advantage of free public transit, like the impending KC Streetcar extension.
With more development on the horizon, the city must now decide if it plans to keep Berkley Riverfront transit-friendly or continue its car-centric culture.
Will the riverfront’s 10-year-plan soon include a parking garage. | Rendering via Port KC
The proposal, crafted by The Parking Co. of America (PCA), outlines a five-story, 1,491-spot parking garage on what is now temporary gravel parking south of the stadium.
PCA is asking for three subsidies to offset the $92 million project costs:
- A property tax break, granted by Port KC
- A yearly $1.8 million contribution from the city’s Bally’s Casino fund
- If revenue from the parking garage does not exceed its debts, the city would cover the shortfall (potentially $8 million total).
Currently, Berkley Riverfront has ~1,900 public parking spaces, which PCA has asked Port KC to limit building elsewhere in order to steer traffic to the new garage.
Besides issues of walkability, the plan’s detractors argue that the lot could contribute more revenue if developed into housing or offices — while its supporters wish the city to consider the property tax revenue it would reap once the tax breaks expire.
Now, we want to hear what you think. Drop us a line and let us know why you would or wouldn’t want to see more parking near CPKC.
