A few hundred people packed a standing-room-only meeting at Unity Temple on the Plaza Monday night to hear details about the district’s proposed $1.4 billion redevelopment. The Gillion Property Group, the Country Club Plaza’s new owner, is seeking to add taller buildings, new office space, and more outdoor areas as part of a major overhaul meant to boost foot traffic, modernize the historic shopping area, yet retain and in some cases bring back its historic charm.
Many attendees said they were glad to see long-awaited investment in the Plaza. But they also raised concerns: the height of several proposed buildings and the substantial tax incentives Gillion is pursuing, including reduced property taxes and potential Tax Increment Financing (TIF) designation. Parents and residents worry those incentives could divert funding from Kansas City Public Schools. Others wanted to ensure that shops catering to residents would make the retail mix, such as small grocers and pharmacies, not just businesses looking to attract tourists.
Developers say they want to preserve the Plaza’s character while ensuring it continues to evolve. The Kansas City Planning Commission is expected to review the master plan on December 3.
