This year’s program will highlight three major development initiatives – the 18th & Vine District, Roy Blunt Luminary Park & Barney Allis Plaza’s redesigned public space, and the UMKC Health Sciences District. We will explore how these projects are catalysts for a ripple effect of economic growth, neighborhood revitalization, and civic pride across our urban core.

• 18th & Vine District – Under the “Revive the Vine” initiative, the city is investing $400+ million to restore this iconic cultural district. Emphasizing equity, preservation, and economic revitalization, the effort combines public infrastructure improvements in addition to new housing, retail, hotel, and community assets to honor and sustain its historic legacy.
• Public Realm: Barney Allis Plaza & Roy Blunt Luminary Park – Together, these 2 spaces will provide over 10 acres of public green space, one capping a public garage, the other decking over I-670.  Both Luminary Park and Barney Allis Plaza will provide once-in-a-generation infrastructure projects designed to reconnect Downtown with the Crossroads and be a new heart of the Convention Center District. These parks will feature public gathering spaces, performance areas, and multimodal connections—all rooted in sustainable, community-driven design.
• UMKC Health Sciences District –  Anchored by UMKC’s Health Sciences Campus and 12 healthcare partners, is transforming Hospital Hill into a dynamic hub of health innovation and downtown growth. UMKC’s recent RI research designation, expanding research facilities, housing, and infrastructure, strengthens the district of Kansas City’s urban core while advancing its position as a national leader in medical research and education.

Together, these projects represent more than standalone investments—they are catalysts with the potential to generate a ripple effect of economic development, neighborhood revitalization, and civic pride throughout the urban core.