Batter Up: Washington Square Park. It’s the latest in a series of proposals for a new home for the K.
Previous ideas (like the failed Crossroads stadium) faced criticism for potentially displacing small businesses, lack of parking + traffic flow, among other complaints. So a team comprised of 3D Development, BNIM Architects, Cushman & Wakefield, Withers Brant, and Highline Partners set out to find a spot that would address all the aforementioned.
They believe Washington Square Park — a nearly 10-acre green space found between Crown Center and Union Station — is the answer, and here’s why:
- Zero business displacements
- 18,903 parking spaces within four blocks
- 1,770 hotel rooms nearby
- Ability for ~2,500 people per hour to commute using the KC Streetcar
- Nearby nine interstate connections and eight major roadways
- Surrounded by attractions such as Liberty Memorial, the KC Wheel, Sea Life Aquarium, Kansas City Ballet, and a multitude of restaurants + bars
“It didn’t take long to see that this is the right site for the Royals and the people of Kansas City,” BNIM Principal Steve McDowell said. “A new ballpark here would leverage so many existing public and private assets. [...] This is the last piece of the puzzle in finishing the heart of the city.”
As of now, the Royals haven’t publicly responded to the renderings.
Do you think the Royals should go for it? Does this location hit it out of the park? Let us know and your answer could be in a future newsletter.
