The University of Missouri-Kansas City is in the midst of several transformative projects scheduled across the next several years — some of which could see completion this year. Among these developments include two plans to create major amenities for pedestrians.
During the State of the University address, Chancellor Mauli Agrawal announced a pedestrian plaza as well as new buildings related to the incoming streetcar stop.
51st Street pedestrian plaza
The pedestrian corridor, labeled the UMKC Promenade on project renderings, would stretch two blocks along 51st Street — from Cherry Street to Rockhill Road. Features could include:
- Bollards (those metal poles in the ground) at intersections to protect foot traffic from vehicles
- Integrated planters and street art (imagine a blue + gold roadway)
- Yard games and sport courts
- Cafe-style tables and chairs
“I can just imagine the transformation,” Agrawal said. “Plantings and greenery, string lights, places to sit and gather.”
UMKC officials told KCtoday they’re aiming to open the corridor in the fall.
KC Streetcar Main Street Extension development
The streetcar is coming to 51st Street and Brookside Boulevard (near Whole Foods) in 2025. Right now, there’s a big empty lot next door (just north of Crows Coffee). Chancellor Agrawal said the university wants to use this opportunity to build a mix of any of the following:
- Housing
- Retail
- An arena (for campus events and concerts)
UMKC officials said an exploratory process for the project will kick off this spring.
Other projects
UMKC’s plans extend beyond these mobility-centered projects, including:
- A Healthcare Innovation and Delivery Building, which is nearly fully funded
- Student recreational soccer fields and a cricket pitch — near Johnson Hall
- $4 million for renovating the UMKC Conservatory
