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🌳 Marty Park Approved in Overland Park, 🏨 Pendergast Hotel Rising in Crossroads, ⚡ $100B Data Center Faces Pushback
Published about 2 months ago • 9 min read
Hey Kansas City Enthusiasts,
Kansas City and its suburbs are making moves again. From Overland Park’s next community park to Crossroads’ newest boutique hotel, the region continues to show just how much growth and creativity are shaping its future. This week’s lineup has everything from big investments and state-level debates to local collabs that remind us why Kansas City never slows down.
In this edition, we’re also highlighting:
▪️ Overland Park’s plans for a brand-new Marty Park coming soon to 75th and Conser
▪️ The Platte County Commissioner speaking out against the proposed $100 billion Northland data center
▪️ Kansas Governor Laura Kelly’s stance on the Chiefs and Royals stadium talks
▪️ A $50 million investment from Spain-based Indra Group bringing 200+ new jobs to the metro
▪️ Boulevard and Quirk’s KU and Mizzou-themed drinks hitting shelves across the region
▪️ And the Pendergast Hotel rising in the Crossroads Arts District — blending local history, style, and hospitality
Scroll down for the latest in what’s shaping Kansas City ⬇️
🌳 OVERLAND PARK CLEARS PATH FOR NEW PARK AT OLD MARTY POOL Overland Park has approved plans for Marty Park, set to replace the former Marty Pool that closed in 2022. The $2.75 million park will include a splash pad, playground, hammock grove, pollinator garden, trike loop, and grilling station. Construction begins mid-fall 2025 near 75th and Conser in northern Overland Park.
⚡ PLATTE COUNTY COMMISSIONER 'CAN'T SUPPORT' $100 BILLION NORTHLAND DATA CENTER Platte County Presiding Commissioner Scott Fricker says he can’t support Project Kestrel — a proposed $100 billion data center near KCI Airport — citing massive tax breaks for a global corporation and rising utility costs for residents. The project spans 379 acres with six hyperscale centers totaling 1.8 million sq. ft., expected to create just 50–100 permanent jobs while generating over $110 million in tax revenue.
🏟️ KANSAS GOVERNOR SAYS SHE WON'T GET INTO CHIEFS, ROYALS BIDDING WAR Kansas Governor Laura Kelly said she’ll withdraw from talks if stadium negotiations with Missouri become a bidding war. She emphasized deals must benefit Kansans, while Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe said the Chiefs may stay at Arrowhead, with Missouri offering up to $1.5 billion toward upgrades or a new stadium.
🏗️ INDRA GROUP INVESTS $50M IN NEW KANSAS CITY FACILITY, CREATING 200+ JOBS Madrid-based Indra Group will invest $50 million in a new Kansas City-area facility producing radars, communication radios, and air traffic systems. Set to open in early 2026, the site will create over 200 jobs and complement Indra’s 78,000-square-foot Overland Park location as a new Center of Excellence.
🍻 BOULEVARD & QUIRK LAUNCH KU AND MIZZOU-THEMED DRINKS Boulevard Brewing Co. and Quirk Hard Seltzer have rolled out new products celebrating partnerships with Kansas and Missouri athletics. Fans can now find The Crimson and the Blueberry Quirk and Pay Heed Pale Ale for KU, plus the Stripes of Citrus Mizzou Mix Pack in stores and at both stadiums. A new flavor, Tiger Paw Punch, will debut in early 2026.
🏨 PENDERGAST HOTEL TO RISE IN CROSSROADS ARTS DISTRICT Copaken Brooks and Tom’s Town founders are teaming up on the $47 million Pendergast Hotel, a six-story, 92-room boutique hotel connected to Tom’s Town Distilling Co. The Art Deco-inspired project will feature a rooftop bar, upscale restaurant, and distillery storefront, with completion expected by spring 2028.
🍎 MISSOURI REDIRECTS $15.6M FOR FOOD AID AS SNAP BENEFITS RUN OUT Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe announced the state will redirect $15.6 million in emergency food assistance as over 650,000 Missourians face the loss of November SNAP benefits due to the federal government shutdown. The funding includes $10.6 million for seniors and $5 million to food banks, though it cannot fully replace the $131.5 million in monthly SNAP benefits Missouri typically distributes.
What you might have missed last week
Two companies are pursuing nuclear reactor projects in Kansas: TerraPower (co-founded by Bill Gates) is working with Evergy on a utility-scale plant, while Deep Fission plans to install reactors one mile underground to power data centers.
Actor Paul Rudd and the Kansas City Chiefs are launching a discounted ticket program for veterans and low-income families to make Arrowhead Stadium more accessible to the community.
Chiefs star Travis Kelce has joined JANA Partners in acquiring a 9% stake in Six Flags Entertainment, the owner of Kansas City’s Worlds of Fun. Kelce said he’s excited to help make Six Flags “special for the next generation.” The group plans to refresh the brand, enhance operations, and modernize technology. Six Flags stock has dropped 55% in 2025 after merging with Cedar Fair.
🏢 DEVELOPMENT SCENE
Rock Island Bridge Set to Partially Open in November After Years of Delays
After years of setbacks, the long-awaited Rock Island Bridge redevelopment is finally set to open in mid-November with a temporary occupancy permit. The $15 million project—touted as America’s first “destination bridge”—will transform the dormant bridge into an entertainment hub connecting the West Bottoms and Kansas City, Kansas.
Developed by Flying Truss LLC, the bridge will feature 11,000 square feet of restaurants, bars, event spaces, and pedestrian and bike walkways, accommodating up to 1,900 people. While the eastern entrance and main structure are expected to be ready this fall, the western side will not be complete until mid-2026. Funded through private equity, a $4 million BASE grant, and a 22-year Community Improvement District, the project aims to spark further riverfront development once fully operational.
Jolson & The Fear of Snakes @ recordBar | swing/rockabilly – INFO
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra w/ Wynton Marsalis @ Lied Center (Lawrence) | jazz – INFO
Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country @ The Granada | country/jam – INFO
Blueprint @ Eighth Street Tap Room | garage rock – INFO
Bartees Strange @ Repetition Coffee | indie rock – INFO
🏐 SPORTS SCENE
KC Current to Represent NWSL at First-Ever World Sevens Football Tournament
The Kansas City Current will represent the National Women’s Soccer League at the first-ever North American edition of the World Sevens Football (W7F) Tournament, taking place December 5–7 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Joining top clubs from Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia, the Current will compete in the fast-paced 7v7 format for a share of the $5 million prize pool—one of the largest in women’s football. Assistant Coach Milan Ivanovic said the team is eager to showcase its creativity and intensity on the international stage. The appearance comes as another milestone for the franchise, which recently opened CPKC Stadium, the world’s first purpose-built women’s soccer venue, and secured the 2025 NWSL Shield.
A Generational Reconnection: Inside KC’s $350M Streetcar Expansion
The $350M Main Street Expansion is finally complete! In this video we're taking you on a ride with members of the Streetcar Authority and the City of Kansas City to discuss the impacts this line will have on the future of the city.
Hyde Park Retreat with Sunroom, Guest Apartment, and Lush Gardens
Step inside this 1910 Hyde Park treasure that perfectly balances historic character with modern comfort. Bathed in natural light and surrounded by greenery, this home offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The main level features an open flow from the living and dining areas to a beautifully updated kitchen with quartz countertops, a large open sink, and sleek Samsung stainless steel appliances. Every corner feels intentional—from the sun-soaked window seat to the warm wood floors and tall ceilings that enhance the home’s timeless appeal.
The spacious second-floor primary bedroom includes an adjoining nursery or office and opens to a sunroom overlooking a lush backyard oasis. The fully furnished third-floor apartment—currently a registered short-term rental—offers flexible use as an income generator or guest suite.
Outside, the backyard is a true urban sanctuary, complete with fruit trees, raised garden beds, a native front yard for pollinators, and even a chicken and duck coop. Located just steps from the Hyde Park streetcar stop and local restaurants, this home captures the best of Midtown living—creative, connected, and full of charm.
Listing Provided by: Dan Martin with Kansas City Realty
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. 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.
Sat & Sun, 11 AM–4 PM at Truman Sports Complex Gate 6. A hands-on event where kids can operate real construction equipment and explore the world of building.
Oct 28–Dec 13 at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Experience a mile-long nighttime journey through glowing time-themed lanterns, live shows, and seasonal fun for all ages.
Nov 1–Dec 31 at Platte Purchase Park. Drive through over a mile of synchronized holiday lights and enjoy festive family fun from the warmth of your car.
We’re building the ultimate library of local guides to help you experience Kansas City like never before. From art walks to foodie finds, keep an eye out—new guides are dropping all year long. Download now, save for later, and share with a friend!
Got an idea for a guide you'd love to see? We’d love to hear it. Reach out anytime at media@thekcscene.com.
Your Guide to Living, Working & Thriving in Kansas City
KC Scene is your go-to, unbiased resource for everything Kansas City—where to live, what to do, and how to make this city feel like home. Whether you're moving in or moving up, we’ve got you covered with real estate, development, lifestyle, and local gems.
Hey Kansas City Enthusiasts, December is kicking off with a mix of big decisions, exciting projects, and one very unique pop culture moment that’s sure to turn heads. From housing initiatives to family attractions, Kansas City is buzzing with activity as we head into 2026. In this edition, we’re highlighting: ▪️ Independence neighbors push back on a proposed massive data center, raising concerns about noise and water use ▪️ Platte County leaders back a plan to lower housing costs by...
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Hi, I’m Kyle Talbot, a local realtor, What started as a simple way to show my relocation clients the positive side of living in Kansas City ended up becoming something much bigger. The KC Scene became a place to hype the people and projects that make this city better. We cover development, sports, art, lifestyle, nightlife, music, and real estate, all in one spot. We built this because you shouldn’t have to scroll through endless negativity just to feel connected to the place you call home....