Photo Credit: Populous
Kansas City is planning a major transformation of its convention and entertainment district, approving a long-term project that could bring roughly $500 million in improvements to Bartle Hall, Municipal Auditorium and Music Hall over the next decade.
Following the passage of a $100 million bond measure approved by voters in August, about $75 million was set aside for convention-related projects. City leaders say the investment will help preserve some of Kansas City's best-known landmarks while ensuring the destination remains competitive for meetings and events.
Targeting the attendee experience
The first phase of the project, to be completed in 2028, includes upgrades across the convention complex. Plans call for modernized arena seating, refreshed concessions and restrooms, improved accessibility, and preservation work at the historical Music Hall. The city also intends to strengthen connections between the venues and Barney Allis Plaza, creating a more seamless flow between indoor and outdoor gathering spaces.
Preserving the past, planning for the future
The improvements span some of Kansas City's most recognizable event venues, including Bartle Hall, which offers 388,800 square feet of column-free exhibit space, as well as Municipal Auditorium's 27,000-square-foot arena and 46,000 square feet of exhibition space.
For generations, Municipal Auditorium and Music Hall, a 2,363-seat Art Deco theater, have hosted everything from championship games and concerts to community celebrations. Following the modernization, Municipal Auditorium will become the home of UMKC basketball, giving the nearly century-old venue a new role in the district's future.
While the first phase focuses on upgrades, the broader vision is about ensuring the district remains relevant for decades to come. Future phases, planned through 2036, would further connect the convention campus, and introduce new gathering and exhibition spaces capable of accommodating larger events.
“Kansas Citians voted to preserve our historic gathering spaces while equipping them with the technology and amenities to be competitive in our region and globally,” said Mayor Quinton Lucas. “Our convention and entertainment facilities support thousands of Kansas City jobs and dozens of industries that welcome millions of residents and guests each year. The voters have made it possible to create plans to make our historic convention center, H. Roe Bartle Hall, Municipal Auditorium and the Music Hall structures modern, accessible and competitive with newer facilities near and far for the next 100 years, keeping Kansas City the home of great events and special memories.”