Redevelopment Site Near Potential Ballpark Listed in East Crossroads

By Kevin Collison

A strategic property is for sale in the East Crossroads, a one-acre site at 18th and Holmes that would be well-located should the Royals get their wish to build their ballpark downtown.

The former Kansas City Tent & Awning properties at 1813-31 Holmes have been listed by Cushman & Wakefield for an asking price of $4.5 million.

The location is only a few blocks from the East Village area where the Royals are said to be leaning toward building a ballpark and near the 18th and Vine District should a potential stadium be located in that area.

“We think it’s a really strategic location,” said Gib Kerr, managing principal at Cushman.

“The East Crossroads reminds me of the LoDo area of Denver 30 years ago. It’s already happening without a baseball stadium, but if you throw a ballpark into the mix it will be like gas on fire.”

The property (star) is within walking distance of two potential ballpark sites, the East Village and near the 18th and Vine District. (Map by Cushman & Wakefield)

Kerr said the existing buildings at the location could be renovated or razed to create a redevelopment site. The listing states there are 46,000 square-feet of industrial buildings along with a 6,700 square-foot garage and fenced surface parking lot.

“There are a couple buildings with barrel-vaulted ceilings that would be great for brew pubs or could be razed for apartments,” Kerr said.

The location is close to the growing East Crossroads district of microbreweries, craft distilleries, restaurants and shops. It also could further the hoped-for redevelopment connection along 18th Street between the Crossroads and 18th and Vine.

“What I love about the East Crossroads is it’s happening organically,” Kerr said. “It’s small businesses and entrepreneurs. You get a nice sense of community.”

The property is located in the East Crossroads Urban Renewal Area and would be eligible for a 10-year, 70 percent property tax abatement.

The properties (shaded in orange) are across from an Evergy substation in the East Crossroads. (Aerial image by Cushman & Wakefield.)