Entries by Sean O'Byrne

From Houdini to Public Space: The Story of 10th and Main 

10th and Main, located in the heart of Downtown Kansas City, has always been an important destination. As a matter of fact, it was at that very intersection in 1915 that a young Harry Houdini performed his very first straightjacket escape. To add to the excitement, Houdini was hanging upside down suspended in the air. Today, it is actually 10th and Main that is suspended. Previously, the roughly 22,000 square feet located on the Southwest corner of 10th and Main was the Metroplex for the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority. Hundreds of City buses would traverse the property, making connections to multiple routes. With changes in use patterns, it was decided to close the Metroplex and relocate the major connection hub.

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Increased Safety for the River Market

Improving safety remains the number one priority among residents, business owners, and employees in the River Market. In response, the River Market Community Improvement District (RMCID) Safety Program is continuing its expanded security initiative, launched in January 2025, to provide additional overnight security presence throughout the neighborhood.

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Grand Boulevard District: Grand Boulevard Re-imagined

In 1892, Kansas City’s Board of Parks Commissioners developed the City Beautiful Movement. The idea was to create wide boulevards and parks to enhance the city’s health and increase real estate values through substantial investments in infrastructure and landscaping. In Downtown Kansas City, Grand Boulevard was designated as the City’s ceremonial boulevard. The boulevard at the time, was the widest street in the grid system making it perfect for events and parades. And it worked, the boulevard attracted investment and grand structures such as the Scarritt Building, the Federal Reserve and the Palace Building. But today, Grand Boulevard has lost its prominence. Buildings sit vacant and infrastructure is in need of investment and maintenance. Today, the Downtown Council has created the Grand Boulevard District Plan.

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Graffiti in Downtown and River Market? No Problem

Graffiti has been around since the dawn of time. It is an avenue for one to express themselves. But if it isn’t warranted, commissioned or requested… it has to come down. In the Downtown and River Market, graffiti continues to be a concern of our residents, tenants and visitors alike. Luckily, the CID’s have Shelia Tatum to lead up our graffiti removal initiative.

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River Market Community Improvement District Advances Renewal Efforts Based on 20 Years of Accomplishments

Since the formation of the River Market Community Improvement District (RMCID) in 2005, more than $680,000,000 has been reinvested in our district. The River Market District is on solid ground with strong office and retail occupancy as well as a growing residential base. Today, more than 3,000 residents call River Market home, with an additional 246 apartments under construction and 838 units planned.

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Downtown and River Market Community Improvement Districts Celebrate over 20 years of Service to the Community

The Downtown Community Improvement District (DCID) is proud to continue its mission in 2025 as a private, nonprofit organization committed to keeping the heart of Downtown Kansas City clean, welcoming, and thriving. Every day, our dedicated safety, concierge, and maintenance ambassadors work tirelessly to support the businesses, residents, and visitors who make the Central Business District their home. Through their efforts, DCID fosters a vibrant and secure downtown environment for all.

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Downtown Businesses like The Glam Room are Blooming

Downtown Kansas City has seen an increase in new businesses and retail shops. Since 2020, 91 new retailers have opened their doors. New shops mean new customers and an increased emphasis on the walkability of Downtown. One such business is the new 20,000 square foot business, The Glam Room Salon + Spa + Beauty Bar (The Glam Room) which will open its doors at 804 West 8th Street later this summer.

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Downtown Community Improvement District holds it’s 21st Annual Meeting

On April 9, 2024, The Downtown Community Improvement District (DCID) held its 21st Annual Meeting reviewing the accomplishments of the current year and laying out the goals for the upcoming fiscal year. The Ambassadors (also known as “bumble bees”) walk the district, as well as RideKC and KC Streetcar stops, the Central Library, public spaces – including Oppenstein Park, and Ilus Davis Park – The Barking Lot Off Leash Dog Park, streets, parking lots, and events, while meeting and welcoming business owners, employees, residents, and visitors of all ages. DCID Safety Ambassadors are dedicated to ensuring a friendly environment and serve as a first point of contact for emergency needs, maintain order, and act as the eyes and ears for emergency services.

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