Marina
The Kansas City City Council has officially approved plans to lift height restrictions on the western edge of the Country Club Plaza, clearing the way for a 20-story tower. For three years, this site has remained empty after Nordstrom abandoned its plans in 2022.
Now, with the council’s decision, a new chapter is beginning for the city’s most iconic shopping district.
Mayor Quinton Lucas hailed the vote as a commitment to “developing the site that has long been the subject of broken dreams and promises,” while Plaza’s new owners, The Village Collection of Dallas, say this will unlock the ambitious vision they have for the 102-year-old landmark.
Why This Decision Matters
The Plaza has long been a symbol of Kansas City’s culture and economy. For years, strict height limits known as the “Plaza Bowl” overlay restricted buildings to maintain the character of the Spanish-inspired district. With the new ordinance, the council has allowed a tower up to 275 feet (20 stories), double the height of any surrounding building.
This is the most significant zoning change in decades, one that could reshape the Plaza skyline and attract new investment into the area.
History of the “Pit”
The 3-acre site at 4720 Jefferson Street has sat empty since Nordstrom backed out of its store project. Locals began calling it the “pit” or “hole” because of the barren land in the heart of Midtown.
Over the years, failed projects like the Balcony Building demolition proposal in 2010 or the Drake Development feud in 2022 created skepticism about large-scale projects. This approval signals a shift: the city and owners are finally aligned on bold redevelopment.
What’s Planned for the Plaza
The Village Collection purchased the Plaza in July 2024 for $175.6 million and quickly announced plans to restore and modernize the area. Renderings released so far highlight:
- A 20-story office or mixed-use tower at the Seville West site.
- New alleyways and streetscapes to improve walkability.
- A potential central park or plaza with fountains and green space.
- A bodega-style food market and retail expansion.
- Improved security measures, including armed patrols.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 4720 Jefferson St, west edge of Plaza |
| Height Limit Before | 130 feet (approx. 10–12 stories) |
| Height Limit Now | 275 feet (20 stories) |
| Site Size | 3 acres |
| Developer | The Village Collection (Dallas-based) |
| Purchase Price | $175.6 million (Plaza-wide, July 2024) |
| Timeline | Plans before City Plan Commission by end of 2026 |
| Other Features | New green spaces, markets, fountains, security upgrades |
The Plaza Bowl Debate
The Plaza Bowl concept dates back to the 1980s when citizens pushed back against the “Sailor’s Project,” a proposal for six office towers up to 53 stories. To preserve character, the city limited central heights to three stories and gradually increased heights toward the edges.
“However, critics argued these restrictions limited investment and left lots like Seville West undeveloped. The new 20-story approval is the first major break from the bowl in years.”
Public Concerns and Preservation
Groups like Historic Kansas City remain cautious. Executive Director Ethan Starr said:
“We’re concerned, but supportive. We think Plaza’s new ownership has the best interest in mind, but cautious is the word.”
Concerns remain about maintaining the Spanish-styled architecture and ensuring the tower fits into the district’s character. Developers are expected to work closely with preservationists as detailed plans emerge.
Broader Impact on Kansas City
The project could spark a revival of the Plaza at a time when retail is struggling nationwide. Adding office space, residential units, and green areas could transform the Plaza into a mixed-use hub.
This move may also boost property values, increase tax revenues, and reinforce Kansas City’s ability to attract new businesses and tourists.
Timeline and Next Steps
The Village Collection has not yet submitted an official master plan but intends to do so by 2026. In the meantime:
- The ordinance allows marketing of the site to builders and tenants.
- Renderings suggest the tower could serve as office, hotel, or mixed-use.
- Construction timelines will depend on financing and city approval of final plans.
The approval of a 20-story tower on Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza marks a turning point for the historic district.
For years, the west edge sat as an empty pit, symbolizing broken promises. Now, with council approval and strong leadership, the Plaza is on track to regain its prominence.
While debates about preservation and scale will continue, the vision of the Plaza as a modern, vibrant, and iconic landmark is moving closer to reality.
With new investments, green spaces, and a bold skyline, Kansas City is showing it is ready to grow while honoring its past.
The Plaza’s story has always been one of transformation—and this new tower could be its most defining chapter yet.