Significant investment from MoDOT advances South Loop Project in downtown KC
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - The scheduled 2025 construction start for Kansas City’s South Loop Park project remains on track thanks to three significant developments this week, city officials said.
Thursday, the City of Kansas City said the Missouri Department of Transportation is investing $31.4 million toward the project through its Cost Share Program. That program s essential state highway and bridge projects.
The funding from MoDOT, which was approved Wednesday, Dec. 4, matches the City of Kansas City’s previous $31.4 million contribution. It will help pay for the replacement of what the city said was aging infrastructure along I-670 in downtown Kansas City, along with upgrades to retaining walls, drainage structures, pavement and the Walnut Street Bridge.
“In just two years’ time, the South Loop Lid project has progressed from simply a bold idea to a catalytic project soon to break ground and re-stitch several downtown communities like Kansas City has never experienced before,” said Mayor Quinton Lucas.
READ MORE: City manager says multiple cars found in Brush Creek as city works to clean, restore area
Along with MoDOT’s funding investment, City Council this week approved a contract from Clarkson Construction and JE Dunn as the general contractor for the project, setting the stage for the commencement of preconstruction services which will allow for the project to start on time in 2025.
The South Loop Park project aims to create a 5.5-acre park with gardens, play areas, entertainment venues and pop-up markets for local businesses.
The positive development for the project comes two days after JE Dunn said it planned to ask Jackson County to chip in another $15 million. The $200 million project in total is being financed with both public money and private donations.
“This project highlights how public-private partnerships can work to create something special for our community,” said councilmember Crispin Rea. “The South Loop Park will provide a new destination for families. At the same time, the improvements of I-670 will create a safer, more accessible downtown corridor for all.”
Final designs and project timelines are still being worked on.
Copyright 2024 KCTV. All rights reserved.
