👀 Around KC

🏆 Most clicked stories OF this week 🏆

• Chiefs debut new red Friday flag featuring coach's iconic phrase.
• The 117-year-old Scarritt Building is becoming a $480M UMusic Hotel and entertainment hub and right next door is 800 Grand.
• Kansas City will host FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, marking a global moment powered by big investments and local unity.

🏢 DEVELOPMENT SCENE

New Renderings of Barney Allis Plaza by Belgian Artists Released

Kansas City has selected Belgian artist duo Gijs Van Vaerenbergh—Pieterjan Gijs and Arnout Van Vaerenbergh—for the $2.18 million public art commission at Barney Allis Plaza, the city’s largest public art investment since the KCI terminal. Known for blending art and architecture, their large-scale, site-specific installations will help transform the downtown plaza into an interactive, iconic landmark.

The commission drew 251 submissions worldwide, including 13 from local artists. After a multi-step process involving museum curators, public art experts, and civic leaders, seven finalists visited Kansas City to present their concepts, with the Municipal Arts Commission ultimately recommending Gijs Van Vaerenbergh.

The project is part of the city’s One Percent for Art program, with the final contract set for Kansas City Council review in mid-August 2025.

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​Let me know what you think of this redevelopment ➡️​

🏐 SPORTS SCENE

Royals’ Next Home: Big Decisions Still on Deck

The Royals’ next home is still a mystery, but the game is far from over. Back in February, owner John Sherman said the team would have a decision by midyear. Now it’s August, and while the announcement hasn’t come, the search has opened exciting possibilities. Since April’s vote ended the Crossroads plan, the Royals have been exploring bold options. Washington Square Park in the heart of downtown, a North Kansas City site that’s gaining traction, and the vast Aspiria Campus in Overland Park, where a group tied to the team purchased the mortgage in May.

In July, talks with Clay County produced a term sheet for a North KC ballpark, a clear sign the conversation is moving. Even the downtown site, while quiet now, could spring back into play. With the lease at Kauffman running through 2031—and an extension possible—there’s still time to get it right. Wherever the Royals land, it has the potential to reshape the fan experience and the city’s skyline. Which spot do you think should become the Royals’ next home?

Drop your pick in the comment section and stay tuned—we’ll be here with every update until the final pitch is thrown.

🎯 REAL ESTATE SCENE

​SPONSORED BY MOVING TO KC​

Historic Valentine Castle for sale in Midtown

Welcome to 3607 Pennsylvania Avenue — an iconic 6-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence that has captured attention on Zillow Gone Wild and the front page of The Kansas City Star. Priced at $825,000 after a recent $25K price cut, this rare stone castle sits on nearly one-third of an acre in the heart of Kansas City’s Westport area, offering 4,817 square feet of timeless craftsmanship and modern luxury.

Built in 1909 with 28-inch stone blocks, this home showcases an engineering feat that would be nearly impossible to replicate today without significant cost. Step inside to soaring 11-foot ceilings, solid maple hardwood floors, and a grand staircase that immediately set the tone for its elegance. The main level offers an open-concept layout with multiple sitting areas, an exposed brick fireplace, and nearly floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the space with natural light. Custom touches include a steel front door imported from Canada and newly added French doors leading to a charming side porch.

The gourmet kitchen serves as the heart of the home, anchored by an impressive 36+ square foot island topped with rare granite slab and waterfall edges. Quartz countertops, an ultra-luxury gas range, and a built-in pasta faucet elevate both function and style. Upstairs, the expansive primary suite spans the entire length of the home, featuring vaulted ceilings, pocket doors, and a spa-like bath with a soaking tub and walk-in waterfall shower. Additional bedrooms and a guest bath with marble flooring and a clawfoot tub complete the second level.

The third floor offers even more living space, including a lounge area and three bedrooms—one with French doors opening to a walk-out turret with breathtaking Kansas City skyline views. Outside, the corner lot provides a secure patio, fenced yard, and the charm of a historic stone exterior, all within minutes of Westport, Midtown, and downtown.

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🏡 Property Overview

Price: $825,000

Address: 3607 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64111

Year Built: 1909

Lot Size: 0.29 Acres

Living Area: 4,817 sq ft

Bedrooms: 6

Bathrooms: 4 (3 full, 1 half)

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

​Watch Kyle's Walk Through Now!​

Listing Provided by: Steve Soby, KW KC Metro

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.

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🌆 This Weekend in Kansas City!