Kansas City's new $351 million streetcar extension is nearing completion, bringing with it a wave of revitalization for Midtown. With the opening slated for the third quarter of 2025, the project has spurred significant development along Main Street, with more than 1,400 new apartment units built or proposed since 2017.

The extension will soon connect the University of Missouri-Kansas City to Union Station and the River Market, facilitating greater mobility and sparking investment in the area. Donna Mandelbaum, spokesperson for the KC Streetcar Authority, highlighted that test runs are underway to ensure the streetcar's safety before passengers board.

For the local development community, the streetcar extension marks a key turning point. Bob Mayer, a partner with Exact Architects involved in historic building renovations along Main Street, believes that the full operation of the streetcar will continue to drive development similar to the downtown streetcar’s impact. “I have no doubt in my mind that over the next five years,” Mayer remarked, “we’re going to see some great things emerge all the way from Union Station to UMKC.”

Twelve Key Projects and Developments Along the Streetcar Extension

As the streetcar extension takes shape, several new and renovated development projects are transforming the area. Here’s a closer look at some highlights:

WWI Museum & Memorial Expansion

Adjacent to the National World War I Museum, this area is slated for continued development as it sees increasing foot traffic due to the streetcar extension.

Fidelity Life Insurance Office Building Proposal (27th and Main)

In 2021, Fidelity Life Insurance proposed an 11-story office building on a vacant lot at the corner of 27th and Main streets near the Crown Center. Although initially approved for a 15-year tax break and 400 parking spaces, the developer never submitted final plans, and the land remains undeveloped.

Despite this setback, local leaders remain optimistic about the ongoing development in the area, citing that the continued growth and investment in apartments, retail spaces, and other projects will bring long-term positive changes to Midtown.

The impact of the streetcar extension is already visible, with many developers anticipating more growth once the project is fully operational. As historic buildings are renovated and vacant lots begin to fill with new structures, Kansas City’s revitalization continues to move forward.

Looking Ahead

‍The full activation of the Main Street streetcar extension is expected to trigger even more development, further energizing Kansas City's Midtown area and beyond. Residents and visitors can expect to see a significant transformation, with new spaces for living, work, and recreation emerging along the route. The ongoing development promises to continue shaping the city's landscape in the coming years.

Further Developments to Watch

• Apartment complexes, including upscale residential units
• Retail spaces catering to streetcar passengers
• Renovations of historic buildings transforming into mixed-use spaces

Originally reported by Josh Merchant in The Beacon