From Houdini to Public Space: The Story of 10th and Main
By Sean O’Byrne, Vice President, Downtown Council; Executive Director, Community Improvement Districts
Image by Merethe Liljedahl from Pixabay
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.
Recently, a work group was formed by the Downtown Council to look at the possibilities for 10th and Main. One concept that rose to the top was a well-programmed, open public space. Although located in the heart of Downtown, 10th and Main receives an abundance of natural light. Its current configuration would make building construction difficult, but with the right direction from the work group, the property could become a well-utilized public space.
10th and Main is approximately the same size as Oppenstein Brothers Memorial Park located at 12th and Walnut. In 2010, the Downtown Council and Jackson County Parks and Recreation worked together to rebuild the park. Working with the Downtown Community Improvement District (DCID), the park has become a great addition to the neighborhood with programming, new art installations, trees, synthetic lawn and tables and chairs.
These improvements along with continued programming have made Oppenstein Park a popular destination for office tenants, residents and visitors. This summer marks the third year for the Downtown Council’s “Summer in the City” series. These events bring in musicians, artists, poetry readings, and games for young and old.
Bringing people together makes a city a community. Much like Oppenstein Park, 10th and Main has the same opportunity. By partnering with the City, the neighborhood and our corporate partners, 10th and Main has the opportunity to connect our Community.
