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.
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🏬 Trader Joe’s Coming to Merriam, 🏗️ GM Expands Fairfax Plant, and 🥐 Paris Baguette Lands in Overland Park
Published 11 months ago • 6 min read
Hey Kansas City Enthusiasts,
Big moves continue across the metro—from major openings and expansions to a new Trader Joe’s on the horizon. Whether it's new public markets, production campuses, or international bakeries, KC’s momentum is hard to ignore.
In this edition, we're highlighting:
▪️ A $102M mixed-use development in Merriam featuring the third Trader Joe’s
▪️ A GM plant expansion in KCK expected to create more jobs
▪️ A Parisian bakery bringing croissants to Overland Park
▪️ A new public market coming to the Historic Northeast
And if you’re wondering what people are buzzing about most this week, it’s all about a new restaurant concept at Rock Island Bridge, major redevelopment in Northeast KC, and the Palm Tree Club’s tropical vibes at Power & Light.
Palm Tree Club will bring beach vibes to KC's Power and Light District.
🏢 DEVELOPMENT SCENE
Proposed $102M Merriam Development Could Bring Metro's 3rd Trader Joe's
Trader Joe’s is set to become the centerpiece of a $102 million redevelopment in Merriam, Kansas, marking the city’s first grocery store since 2018. The Merriam Grand Station Marketplace will transform a 6.25-acre site at Shawnee Mission Parkway and Antioch Road—formerly home to the Antioch Library and several other businesses—into a mixed-use development featuring more than 200 apartments, retail and dining spaces, and a 12,500-square-foot Trader Joe’s.
In partnership with Drake Development, the city approved a complex incentive package, including TIF, special sales taxes, industrial revenue bonds, and city-issued grants, to support the project. Merriam will own the grocery and retail buildings, while Drake handles the residential portion.
Demolition and site prep are already underway, with construction expected to begin this summer and completion required by mid-2030. Residents, who have long prioritized having a local grocery store, could see Trader Joe’s open as early as late 2026.
Gates Bar-B-Q Proposes Royals Stadium Site with Full KC Experience
The legendary Gates Bar-B-Q family has entered the Kansas City Royals stadium conversation by proposing the site of the former ATA building near 18th Street and Ride KC Headquarters as a potential new home for the team.
Ollie Gates envisions the location as the cultural crossroads of the city, linking downtown, the Crossroads, the Jazz District, and the Hospital Hill area. Alongside the stadium, the proposal includes a Royal Tower concept that would showcase Kansas City’s rich heritage through live jazz, immersive sound zones, fountain-inspired features, a rotating BBQ hall, and baseball-themed luxury suites. The Royals have yet to respond, while a competing stadium offer from Kansas remains on the table until June 30.
Kansas City has a problem - we build big, then bulldoze what made us special. Now, the West Bottoms is getting a $527 million redevelopment that could change everything.
Own a piece of Kansas City history with this one-of-a-kind corner store-turned-residence in the vibrant Historic Northeast. Blending vintage character with creative functionality, 328 Monroe Avenue offers flexible living as either a 3-bedroom single-family home or a true up/down duplex—each level with its own entrance and full kitchen.
Inside, you’ll find original hardwood floors, hand-painted murals, vintage fixtures, and thoughtful updates like new windows, mini-splits, and modern appliances. A screened-in, treehouse-style porch adds a cozy touch, perfect for relaxing above the fenced yard—home to one of Missouri’s oldest Bur Oak trees. The attached 2-car garage, full basement workshop, and powered shed offer ample space for hobbies and storage.
Plus, city-approved plans and variances are already in place for a two-story detached garage with a studio above—ideal for future income or creative space. Zoned R-2.5 and located just minutes from Downtown, this property is a rare blend of history, flexibility, and opportunity.
This rare Westside lot at 1700 Jefferson Street is ready for your dream project. With approved variances for a 2.06 FAR and 39-foot height limit, you’ll save time and skip major zoning hurdles. Located just minutes from Downtown and the Crossroads, this 0.07-acre corner lot offers unbeatable access to one of KC’s most walkable and character-rich neighborhoods. Whether you’re planning residential or mixed-use, the groundwork is already laid.
🏡 Property Overview
Price: $275,000
Lot Size: 2,985 sq ft (0.07 acres)
Zoning: B1-1
Approved FAR: 2.06
Height Limit: 39 feet
Current Use: Commercial, Multi-Family, or Single-Family
This one-day outdoor art fair will feature a wide variety of handmade and locally crafted treasures, including original paintings, pottery, handcrafted jewelry, bookish gifts, fresh floral bouquets, glass art, home décor, and more! The fun starts Saturday at 10 am and goes until 4 pm.
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for an outdoor movie under the stars at Eisenhower Park. The screening starts at 8:30 PM—perfect for a chill Friday night.
Stroll along Brush Creek and watch artists in action during this riverside art walk. From 10 AM to 3:30 PM, enjoy live painting, music, and community creativity.
Experience the soulful sounds of Kansas City at the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District. Enjoy live jazz, vendors, and food from 12 PM to 10 PM Saturday.
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.
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