The Kansas City Royals and Hallmark Cards announced today they are teaming up to bring Royals baseball and billions in private investment and economic development to Crown Center through a historic project that will enhance tourism and lift Kansas City’s profile nationally and beyond.
A world-class ballpark, surrounding mixed-use development and reimagined headquarters for both iconic institutions at Crown Center would create more than 20,000 jobs in the construction phase alone. The 85-acre development surrounding a park-like central square with fountains has little if any precedent worldwide for a professional sports project, and the expected private investment of $2 billion or more would be the largest in Kansas City history.
The total project would be funded primarily by the Royals and other private investors and supplemented by public funding from the City of Kansas City and Missouri’s Show-Me Sports Investment Act.
“Today’s announcement reinforces that the State of Missouri is not just where the Kansas City Royals play but where they belong,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “This decision by the Royals to invest in our state is more than just a commitment to Kansas City, it is a commitment to communities and fans across Missouri. I appreciate the partnership of the Royals organization, Hallmark and state and local leaders in working together to make this project a reality.”
This first-of-its-kind development is backed by diverse leadership groups across the region and would enhance previous investments including the Streetcar and optimize ample parking within a 10-minute walk.
Royals baseball would push from the bottom into the top 10 in walkability among Major League Baseball teams, lowering the cost and growing the accessibility for Kansas Citians to enjoy and connect with their team.
