👀 This Week Around KC

🏟️ KANSAS LAWMAKERS APPROVE NEW SPORTS AUTHORITY FOR CHIEFS STADIUM DEAL​

Kansas is moving forward with a new 11-member sports authority to oversee a proposed $3 billion stadium project tied to the Kansas City Chiefs. The group would handle everything from financing and construction to long-term operations, playing a central role in one of the largest economic development deals in state history. Supporters say the plan could bring jobs and investment, while critics argue it relies heavily on public incentives and raises questions about long-term return.

⭐ KANSAS CITY NAMED A “WELCOMING STAR”​
Kansas City has been designated a “Welcoming Star” by Welcoming America after meeting national benchmarks for immigrant inclusion, economic access, and community support. The recognition highlights the city’s continued efforts to create pathways for integration and long-term economic participation.

🍀 KANSAS CITY IRISH FEST RETURNS THIS FALL​
Kansas City Irish Fest is returning to Crown Center over Labor Day weekend, bringing three days of live music, cultural programming, food vendors, and family-friendly events. As one of the largest Irish festivals in the country, it draws tens of thousands of attendees each year and remains a staple on KC’s event calendar.

🔔 PLAZA BELLS RING AGAIN STARTING EASTER​
The iconic bells at the Country Club Plaza will return starting Easter Sunday after being silent for years, marking the return of one of the Plaza’s most recognizable traditions. The revival also ties into broader conversations around the Plaza’s ongoing updates and long-term revitalization.

🛁 MICRO BATHHOUSE CONCEPT COMING TO CROSSROADS​
Entrepreneur Kyle Steppe is planning “180 Bathhouse,” a micro bathhouse in the Crossroads Arts District focused on contrast therapy, including sauna and cold plunge experiences. The concept is built around a strict phone-free policy, leaning into a growing national wellness trend centered on intentional disconnection and in-person interaction.

🚲 PEDICABS COULD RETURN TO THE PLAZA​
A proposed ordinance in Kansas City would allow modern, regulated pedicabs to operate on the Country Club Plaza. If approved, the move would expand short-distance transportation options in high-traffic areas, especially as the city prepares for increased tourism and major events.

What you might have missed last week

• New renderings show what a waterfront district at the Truman Sports Complex could look like.
• ​Kansas City’s Anjin has advanced to finalist status for Best New Restaurant in the 2026 James Beard Foundation Awards, highlighting the city’s growing presence in the national food scene.

Rock Island Bridge officially opens this weekend, and we went to get the story firsthand.

The Rock Island Bridge officially opened this weekend, transforming a historic railroad bridge into a pedestrian walkway that connects the Lawrence Levee Trail in Kansas to the Greenline in Missouri. Three trails, two states, one bridge. It's the first time this connection has existed, and it changes how people move through the West Bottoms entirely.

We sat down with Mike, the developer behind the Rock Island Bridge, to hear the full story of how this project came together, what it took to get here, and what it means for the future of the neighborhood.

We also caught Andrew Miller, owner of River House, and chef Bradley Gilmore, who are now open on the lower level serving Kansas City-style comfort food with river views on both sides.

That full interview drops today at 5 PM on the Moving to KC YouTube channel.

We're sending you an email at 5 PM sharp so you can watch it the moment it drops. If you want to be the first to know every time we drop content like this, make sure you're subscribed to the channel.

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If you haven't subscribed to the channel yet, now's the time. This is exactly the kind of KC story we'll keep bringing you.

🏢 DEVELOPMENT SCENE

Kansas City Symphony Unveils Plans for Major New South Plaza Venue

The Kansas City Symphony has announced plans to develop a new 4,600-seat live music venue in Kansas City’s South Plaza district, expected to open by 2028.
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Designed to support both symphonic and amplified performances, including popular film score concerts, the space will also host touring artists across multiple genres, drawing an estimated 300,000 visitors annually and boosting nearby businesses.
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While the Symphony will own the venue, operations and programming will be managed by Music and Event Management, Inc., with more than 100 events planned each year. Revenue generated from the venue is intended to help sustain the Symphony’s regular performances at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, ensuring long term growth and financial stability for the organization.

​Let me know what you think of this story ➡️

🏐 SPORTS SCENE

Kansas City FIFA Fan Festival Tickets Now Open for Summer 2026

Soccer fans can now reserve their spot for the upcoming FIFA Fan Festival in Kansas City, an 18-day event taking place in June and July at the National WWI Museum and Memorial.
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While general admission is free, attendees must secure a pass in advance, with entry granted on a first come, first served basis depending on capacity. For those wanting guaranteed access and upgraded experiences, paid options like the Premium Garden Pass and Legacy Lounge Pass offer perks such as exclusive viewing areas, expedited entry, food and beverage packages, and private amenities.
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Organizers expect strong demand, especially during major match days, and attendees will receive a QR code ticket via email about 48 hours before their scheduled visit. The festival will feature themed programming throughout its run, highlighting Kansas City’s culture, sports scene, global soccer influence, and local arts.
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​Secure your pass now through the official KC 2026 website ➡️

🎯 REAL ESTATE SCENE

​SPONSORED BY MOVING TO KC​

Mid-Century Modern Gem in Prairie Village

4504 W 78th St is a 3-bedroom, 1-bath home that perfectly blends timeless architecture with modern updates. Designed by noted architect David Runnells and built by Don Drummond, this authentic Mid-Century Modern home is one of only nine of its kind ever built. Fully remodeled, it features restored parquet wood floors, vaulted unpainted wood ceilings, and expansive insulated windows that fill every room with natural light. The updated kitchen and bathroom showcase designer finishes, while the detached garage offers extra space for hobbies, a workshop, or flex use.

Set on a private, fenced, tree-filled lot, the home also boasts a newer deck, A/C and furnace (2018), a new sewer line (2022), and an energy-efficient smart roof. Just steps from schools, parks, and local shops, this rare architectural gem is a move-in ready opportunity for anyone seeking a home with character, style, and convenience.

🏡 Property Overview

Address: 4504 W 78th St, Prairie Village, KS 66208

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Square Footage: 1,155 sq ft

Lot Size: 8,731 sq ft

📞 Ready to see it in person?
​Take a closer look at the details, and let’s get your tour scheduled!​

Listing Provided by: Leslie Stelzer & Bailey Goodman with Compass Realty Group

At Loans in KC, we understand that every financial situation is unique. That’s why we offer personalized loan solutions designed to meet your specific needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with fast and reliable service.
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Mortgage rates change constantly, much like the weather, and they vary depending on your unique circumstances. Just like finding the right tool for a job, getting the right mortgage rate is crucial. Let us help you discover the perfect match with a FREE customized quote today! You’re not just another number to us; you’re part of the family.

🌆 This Weekend in Kansas City!