Marina
As the Kansas City Royals eye the future, North Kansas City (NKC) is emerging as the top contender for their next stadium. With a visionary 95-acre site, proximity to downtown, and a people-first infrastructure plan, NKC presents a dynamic and accessible future home for the team.
From streetcar access to economic incentives and local legislative support, this location ticks all the boxes for long-term success.
Location & Accessibility Advantages
The proposed stadium site in NKC is approximately two miles north of downtown Kansas City. It offers:
- A 95-acre parcel exclusively for the ballpark and its surrounding amenities
- Incredible views of the downtown skyline
- Planned extension of the streetcar line for seamless, car-free access
- Enhanced walkability and bike-friendly routes to accommodate 80+ home games per year
This focus on multi-modal access would transform NKC into a year-round destination, not just a game-day spot.
Financial and Legislative Backing
NKC benefits from strong financial feasibility and government support:
- The stadium plan is modeled on the existing eighth-cent sales tax that supports other regional assets like the zoo
- Local and state leaders have pushed forward bipartisan legislation to reduce tax burdens for Clay County residents
- Incentive structures aim to fairly distribute the funding responsibility across the metro area
- No new tax vote is required in Jackson County, unlike previously failed proposals
This tax-sharing model ensures all local communities contribute to a shared regional asset without overburdening any single population.
Infrastructure and Future Connectivity
A key part of NKC’s appeal lies in transit integration:
- The NorthRail Streetcar expansion project would connect NKC directly to downtown Kansas City
- Major roadways including I-29, I-35, and US-169 support easy vehicle access
- Plans include enhanced pedestrian bridges and cycling paths
This infrastructure makes the stadium accessible to fans from across the metro region without relying solely on cars or parking.
Economic Revitalization Potential
The stadium isn’t just a sports venue—it’s a catalyst for economic growth:
- Retail, dining, hospitality, and entertainment venues would spring up around the stadium
- New job opportunities in construction, tourism, and operations would boost local employment
- NKC would benefit from increased tax revenue and foot traffic
- The area would transform into a vibrant, livable entertainment hub for families and visitors alike
Why NKC Wins Over Other Options
Comparing NKC to downtown KC or a Kansas-based site makes the advantages clear:
| Criteria | North Kansas City | Downtown KC | Kansas Site |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tax Vote Needed? | No | Yes | Possible |
| Streetcar Access | Planned NorthRail Expansion | Existing | No dedicated transit |
| Legislative Backing | Strong bipartisan support | Mixed | Competing state funding limits |
| Regional Funding Model | Zoo tax-based shared cost | Heavier local tax burden | Heavy state subsidies |
| Proximity to Downtown | ~2 miles (with skyline views) | Central | Varies |
NKC combines accessibility, funding fairness, political feasibility, and community vision.
North Kansas City offers a rare opportunity to build a world-class baseball stadium that is both economically sound and community-oriented.
With strong political support, financial feasibility, integrated transportation plans, and broad public appeal, NKC is more than just a location—it’s the future of Royals baseball.
As plans move forward, this site promises to deliver a home-run experience for fans, players, and the greater Kansas City region.