Kansas City’s riverfront is experiencing a significant transformation, with a new SpringHill Suites by Marriott hotel proposed near Bally’s Casino.
This development is part of the city’s broader initiative to revitalize the Berkley Riverfront area, turning it into a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike.
Project Overview
The proposed hotel, developed by True North Hotel Group, is planned to be a five-story building featuring approximately 120 rooms. Situated just east of the Bond Bridge and across the highway from CPKC Stadium, the hotel aims to cater to the growing demand for accommodations in the area.
Financial Structure and Tax Incentives
To support the construction of the hotel, the Kansas City Council’s transportation committee has advanced a plan to utilize revenue from a 1% sales tax levied on Bally’s Casino and the future hotel.
This tax is projected to generate about $16 million over 25 years, with a $4.9 million cap allocated to offset the hotel’s construction costs. The remaining funds will be directed towards improvements in the Berkley Riverfront area.
Development Details
The city owns the land designated for the hotel and leases it to the Port Authority of Kansas City, which will, in turn, sublease it to the hotel developers. This arrangement facilitates the development while ensuring that the city retains ownership of the property.
Addressing Construction Challenges
Chris Harlow, Vice President of Business Development at True North Hotel Group, highlighted the need for financial offsets due to poor soil conditions in the area and rising construction costs.
These factors contribute to the overall expense of the project, necessitating the proposed tax incentives to make the development feasible.
Impact on the Riverfront Development
The new hotel is part of a broader wave of developments transforming Kansas City’s riverfront. Recent projects include the construction of hundreds of new apartments, commercial spaces, and a promenade, collectively representing a $1 billion investment in the Berkley Riverfront area.
Additionally, the nearby CPKC Stadium adds to the area’s appeal, attracting visitors and boosting the local economy.
Existing SpringHill Suites Locations in the Kansas City Area
The proposed riverfront hotel will join several other SpringHill Suites by Marriott locations in the Kansas City region:
| Location | Proximity |
|---|---|
| Country Club Plaza | Central Kansas City |
| Near Worlds of Fun | Northeast Kansas City |
| Kansas City International Airport | Northwest Kansas City |
| Mission Road, Overland Park | Southwest of Kansas City |
| Near Costco, Overland Park | Southwest of Kansas City |
| Lenexa | West of Kansas City |
The proposed SpringHill Suites by Marriott hotel signifies a continued commitment to revitalizing Kansas City’s riverfront. By addressing construction challenges through strategic financial planning and leveraging tax incentives, the city and developers aim to enhance the area’s appeal and economic vitality.
As the Berkley Riverfront area continues to evolve, this new hotel stands as a testament to the city’s growth and development ambitions.