The Kansas City Royals and Hallmark Cards have unveiled plans for a sweeping redevelopment project at Crown Center that aims to transform the area into a major destination for baseball, business, and tourism. The proposal centers on a new world-class ballpark surrounded by mixed-use development and updated headquarters for both organizations, positioning the site as a showcase for private investment and urban revitalization.
The project would span roughly 85 acres and feature a park-like central square with fountains, combining entertainment, retail, and office space in a design with few global comparisons in professional sports. Backers estimate the development will generate more than 20,000 construction jobs and draw at least $2 billion in private investment, making it the largest project of its kind in Kansas City history. Funding would come primarily from the team and private partners, with additional support tied to state and local programs, including Missouri’s Show-Me Sports Investment Act.
Leaders involved in the plan see the partnership as a long-term commitment to the city’s economic future and cultural identity. Longstanding ties between the organizations helped bring the concept together, with supporters saying the project would strengthen downtown connectivity, build on infrastructure investments like the streetcar, and improve walkability around the stadium. The development is expected to boost tourism, support small businesses, and secure the Royals’ presence in Kansas City for generations while elevating the city’s national profile.
