Kansas City Royals to Build $1.9 Billion Downtown Stadium at Crown Center

The Kansas City Royals announced plans on Wednesday to construct a $1.9 billion stadium at Crown Center, marking a significant shift from their current location at Kauffman Stadium. The new ballpark will be at the heart of an 85-acre redevelopment effort in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, anchored by a partnership with Hallmark Cards Inc.

The multi-phase project, expected to total around $3 billion, includes mixed-use developments and aims to revitalize the Crown Center area. Royals owner John Sherman revealed that construction will begin next year, subject to finalization of the master plan. Roughly two-thirds of funding is set to come from private sources, with the remainder to be covered by public partners, including state funds allocated specifically for stadium developments.

Officials emphasized the location's proximity to public transportation, including the streetcar connection to the Power & Light District and T-Mobile Center, as well as existing parking availability and convenient highway access. Hallmark intends to build a new headquarters within the development area, integrating further with the broader downtown landscape.

The new stadium announcement follows several months of deliberations over potential sites, with alternatives in Overland Park, Kansas and north of downtown Kansas City ultimately rejected. A previous proposal to renovate both Kauffman and Arrowhead stadiums failed in April 2024, after voters in Jackson County turned down a sales tax extension for stadium upkeep. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs opted to relocate to Kansas following a substantial bond commitment by the neighboring state.

Missouri’s financial contribution for the Royals’ project is made possible by a law passed last year that provides state-backed bonds and tax credits for new or renovated stadiums. Local officials expressed optimism about the investment's economic impact, while acknowledging ongoing debates about public funding for sports venues.

The Royals plan to depart Kauffman Stadium when their lease expires in 2031. Project planning is ongoing, and no groundbreaking date has been set beyond the target of next year.