News & Issues

Stories from around the Kansas City Metro area on a variety of topics.

Proposed Greenline Trail Price Tag $80M, Plan to Seek Federal Funding

By Kevin Collison The proposed Greenline recreational trail loop around downtown now has an estimated $80 million price tag, according to backers who plan to eventually seek federal funding for the project. The Greenline was initially pitched almost three years ago by developer Vince Bryant, who’s firm 3D Development has renovated several buildings in the…

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A campaign sign in favor of restricting abortion rights.

Kansas Churches Leading Charge for Constitutional Amendment on State’s Abortion Rights

Religious institutions normally avoid advocating during election cycles to protect their charitable status under federal law. But the Kansas constitutional amendment on abortion provides a rare opportunity for them to get actively involved.

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Conversion of Historic Ozark Building to Hotel Begins at Ninth and Grand

(Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in CityScene Oct. 18, 2021) By Kevin Collison Preliminary demolition work has begun on converting the historic Ozark building at Ninth and Grand into a 249-room AC Hotels by Marriott with completion anticipated in about two years. “In terms of historic buildings, I think it’s in exceptional condition,” said…

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Nick Haines

Nick’s Picks | Focus Turns to Upcoming Primaries

Primary election campaigns are in full swing in Missouri and Kansas.

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Art Garden KC Begins This Sunday at City Market Park

Art Garden KC, a weekly event featuring 60 vendors, kids’ art activities and an open mic showcase, begins this Sunday at the City Market Park and runs through Oct. 30. This is the first year for Art Garden KC at the small park at Third and Main west of the City Market. It originated last…

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Big West Bottoms Redevelopment Plan Backed by City, Stirs Fears of Some Neighbors

By Kevin Collison SomeraRoad’s ambitious proposal to transform a sleepy section of the West Bottoms into a “dynamic” mixed-use district has strong support from City Hall but awakened worries of some longtime denizens. In recent weeks, the zoning change required for the sweeping redevelopment concept by the New York developer has received unanimous approval from…

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A conceptual rendering of a street scene in a part of the SomeraRoad plan for a six-block section of the West Bottoms.

Ambitious West Bottoms Plan Sparks Gentrification Debate

SomeraRoad’s ambitious proposal to transform a sleepy section of the West Bottoms into a “dynamic” mixed-use district has strong support from City Hall and awakened worries of some longtime denizens.

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Crown Center Launches ‘Jungle Cruise’ to Start WeekEnder Series

Free live music and movies return to Crown Center Square when the annual WeekEnder  event kicks off this Friday with the Damien Gunn band and Jungle Cruise. Throughout July, local bands and classic movies will be featured along with food and drink beginning at 6 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend for what’s described as…

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Missouri voter guide graphic

Missouri Voting Guide: What to Know About the 2022 Election

Here’s a guide to help you navigate Missouri’s 2022 election, including information on how to vote and what to expect on your ballot.

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LA Gaming Tech Company Leases Space at P&L District

Mythical Games, a Los Angeles-based game technology company, is opening an office in the  Power & Light District that could employ up to 100 people. The firm is occupying the 16,000 square-foot space at 1321 Baltimore formerly occupied by Visit KC. “We’re thrilled to take the next step in our rapid growth as we expand…

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