Hailey
Kansas is making a serious push to bring the Kansas City Chiefs out of Missouri and into Kansas, and things are now reaching a critical stage.
Lawmakers in Kansas are preparing to approve a massive $1 billion stadium deal, which could completely change the future of professional football in the region.
If approved, the deal would help the Chiefs build a new domed stadium and a large entertainment district, possibly ending the team’s 60-year history in Missouri. With deadlines approaching fast, both Kansas and Missouri are racing to convince the team which state offers the better future.
What Kansas Lawmakers Are Deciding Right Now
Kansas City Chiefs: A key Kansas legislative group called the Legislative Coordinating Council is set to meet and review one of the final steps in the deal. The council will consider approving STAR bonds, a special financing tool Kansas uses for major developments.
These STAR bonds could cover hundreds of millions of dollars, making it easier for the Chiefs to build a modern stadium without raising taxes directly on residents.
This meeting is important because it is the last scheduled meeting of the year, and there is a firm deadline to move the deal forward.
Where the New Chiefs Stadium Could Be Built
Possible Location Near The Legends
Kansas City Chiefs: If the deal moves ahead, the new Chiefs stadium would likely be built near The Legends in Kansas City, Kansas. This area already has many popular attractions, making it a strong choice.
The proposed site is expected to be:
- Near Kansas Speedway
- Close to Interstate 70 and Interstate 435
- Surrounded by shopping and entertainment spots
Nearby Attractions
The stadium would sit close to:
- Legends Outlets
- Hollywood Casino
- Sporting KC’s soccer stadium
This setup would help create a full entertainment district, not just a football venue.
Key Details of the Kansas Stadium Proposal
Kansas City Chiefs: Below is a simple table explaining the major points of the deal:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Cost | Around $1 billion |
| Funding Tool | STAR bonds |
| Bond Coverage | Up to 70% of total cost |
| Stadium Type | Domed stadium |
| Possible Opening | Around 2031 |
| Location | Near The Legends, Kansas City, Kansas |
Why the Chiefs Are Considering Leaving Missouri
Kansas City Chiefs: Missouri recently struggled to keep the Chiefs after voters rejected a sales tax extension in April 2024. That vote stopped funding plans for:
- A new downtown Royals ballpark
- Major renovations to Arrowhead Stadium
Because of that rejection, Missouri’s offer now covers only about 50% of stadium costs, while Kansas is offering significantly more support.
Kansas vs Missouri: The Stadium Funding Battle
Kansas Offer
- Covers up to 70% of project costs
- Uses STAR bonds
- No new statewide taxes
- Strong push from state leaders
Missouri Offer
- Covers about 50% of costs
- Includes tax credits and local aid
- Faced voter resistance
Kansas believes its proposal offers a stronger long-term financial solution for the Chiefs.
Political Leaders React to the Possible Move
Kansas City Chiefs: Kansas leaders say the state is working hard to bring the Chiefs over.
The Kansas Department of Commerce confirmed that talks are active and ongoing, calling the move a potential “massive economic win” that could benefit Kansas for generations.
Meanwhile, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe says he is still working closely with the Chiefs and hopes to keep them in Missouri.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas added that negotiations are still ongoing and that the city prefers to handle talks privately.
Why a Domed Stadium Matters
The Chiefs are especially interested in a domed stadium because it would:
- Allow Super Bowl hosting
- Support winter events
- Bring concerts and year-round entertainment
- Increase tourism and revenue
Last month, the Chiefs even asked design firms to submit ideas for a domed stadium, showing that relocation plans are very real.
When a Move Could Actually Happen
Kansas City Chiefs: Even if Kansas approves everything now, fans should know that:
- The Chiefs’ current lease ends in 2031
- Construction would take several years
- No final agreement has been signed yet
So while talks are serious, a move would still take time.
Kansas is making one of the boldest moves in its history by trying to bring the Kansas City Chiefs across the state line.
With strong financial backing, a prime location near The Legends, and a modern domed stadium plan, Kansas is offering a future that could reshape the region’s sports and entertainment scene.
Missouri is still fighting to keep the team, but the rejected tax vote has weakened its position. While nothing is final yet, the next few decisions could define where the Chiefs play football for decades to come.