Batsman: Washington Square Park. It is the latest in a Series of proposals for a new home for the K.
Previous ideas (such as the failed Crossroads Stadium) was criticized for potential displacement of small businesses, lack of parking and traffic flow, among other things. So a team consisting of 3D Development, BNIM Architects, Cushman & Wakefield, Withers Brant and Highline Partners set out to find a site that would meet all of the above points.
They believe Washington Square Park – a 25-acre green space between Crown Center and Union Station – is the answer, for the following reasons:
- No company relocations
- 18,903 parking spaces within four blocks
- 1,770 hotel rooms nearby
- Opportunity for approximately 2,500 commuters per hour to use the KC Streetcar
- Nearby: 9 interstate connections and 8 major roads
- Surrounded by attractions such as the Liberty Memorial, the KC Wheel, the Sea Life Aquarium, the Kansas City Ballet and a variety of restaurants and bars
Is this the future home of the K?
“It didn’t take long to realize that this was the right location for the Royals and the people of Kansas City,” said BNIM Director Steve McDowell. “A new ballpark here would utilize so many existing public and private assets. (…) This is the final piece of the puzzle to complete the heart of the city.”
So far, the royals have not publicly responded to the renderings.
Do you think the royals should get involved? Is this location a winner? Let us know and your answer could appear in a future newsletter.
