Downtown KC + Public Space – What’s the ROI? A Conversation with Carol Coletta

By Ann Holliday, Vice President – Strategic Initiatives for the Downtown Council and Executive Director of the Art in the Loop Foundation

I had the opportunity to speak with Carol Coletta, a nationally recognized urbanist and civic leader, at the Downtown Council’s 2026 Annual Luncheon, “Welcoming the World: Building on Our Legacy”. We talked about the value of Downtowns, the power of our public spaces,  where people from different walks of life come together, where interaction is encouraged, a sense of safety is created, and the result is community vibrancy and an enhanced quality of life.

We discussed the progress that we are making as a community. From the Riverfront and Current Landing, the future Greenline recreation trail, the Rock Island Bridge, Barney Allis Plaza, and Luminary Park, bridging the highway right outside these doors. This is happening right now.  This is the foundation upon which we will build our tomorrow, our legacy for future generations. And now we need everyone’s help.

Join us in continuing to build a more welcoming, vibrant Downtown today…and for generations to come.  Together, we can increase our investment in dynamic public spaces that make Downtown KC an exceptional place for all to live, work, play and learn.  Click here to learn more about our initiatives and opportunities.

I hope you enjoy our conversation in this video!