Marina
The skyline of Kansas City is about to glow once again. After being dark for more than 20 years, the KCTV Tower in Midtown is relighting with a brand-new LED lighting system. Standing at 1,042 feet tall, the tower has long been one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
Now, with modern upgrades, the tower will shine in vibrant colors that reflect both civic pride and Kansas City’s exciting future.
A Tower with History
The KCTV Tower was first built in 1956 and has been a broadcasting and architectural icon ever since. Positioned off 31st Street between Main and Gillham, near the Kansas City PBS station, the tower once lit up the night sky with glowing lights that were a source of local pride.
But in 2004, the lights were switched off due to maintenance challenges and the high costs of operating the old system. For over two decades, the tower stood dark, waiting for its moment to return. That moment finally arrives in September 2025, when the tower will light up again with new technology.
What’s New in 2025?
The relighting project brings modern technology to an old favorite.
- 96 new LED fixtures have been installed.
- The lights can display a wide range of dynamic colors and effects.
- The tower can be illuminated in royal blue, red, white, and custom designs for sports events, holidays, and civic celebrations.
- The new lighting system is energy-efficient and low maintenance, replacing the outdated bulbs that made upkeep too costly.
During initial testing, the tower was illuminated in colors representing the Kansas City Chiefs, thrilling residents who saw the glow from miles away.
Timeline of the Relighting
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Lighting Tests | Early September 2025 | Trial runs with multiple colors and effects |
| Official Relighting Ceremony | September 18, 2025 | Public event celebrating the tower’s return |
| Regular Lighting Displays Begin | After Sept 18, 2025 | Tower will glow nightly with programmable displays |
The official relighting will be a community celebration, with local leaders, broadcasters, and residents expected to attend.
Why the Relighting Matters
The return of the tower’s lights is more than a technical update—it’s a statement of pride.
- Civic Identity: The tower has always been a visual anchor for Kansas City. Seeing it lit again strengthens local pride and identity.
- Tourism Boost: With Kansas City hosting major events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the glowing tower will add to the city’s international image.
- Urban Art: The relighting is part of a broader initiative to create art through light, making the cityscape vibrant at night.
- Community Connection: The tower becomes a canvas for collective experiences, from celebrating championships to marking holidays.
Technical Features of the New Lights
The upgraded lighting system is designed to last for decades.
- Programmable LEDs: The tower can change colors instantly for special events.
- Energy Savings: The LEDs consume far less power compared to the old incandescent bulbs.
- Durability: Modern fixtures require less maintenance, ensuring the tower stays lit consistently.
- Flexible Themes: From red and yellow for sports to green for environmental events, the tower can adapt to any occasion.
Quick Facts About the KCTV Tower
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 1,042 feet |
| Location | Midtown Kansas City (31st & Main/Gillham) |
| Built | 1956 |
| Lights Off Since | 2004 |
| New Fixtures | 96 LED units |
| Relighting Date | September 18, 2025 |
| Lighting Capability | Multi-color, programmable LED effects |
Public Excitement
The news of the relighting has generated a wave of excitement across Kansas City. Many residents remember the glowing tower from decades past, and for younger generations, it will be the first time they see the skyline lit up by the structure.
The tower is expected to become a focal point for gatherings and a popular spot for photos, especially when lit in colors celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs, Royals, or other community events.
The KCTV Tower’s relighting in September 2025 marks a new chapter in Kansas City’s story. After over 20 years of darkness, the city’s tallest landmark will once again light the skyline with dazzling colors and modern technology.
With 96 LED fixtures, programmable displays, and an official ceremony set for September 18, 2025, the tower is more than just a piece of infrastructure—it’s a beacon of civic pride, culture, and unity.
As Kansas City prepares for global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the shining tower will stand tall as a symbol of the city’s resilience and its bright future.