\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRelated video above: John Sherman says Royals ballpark decision coming “sooner rather than later” in April interview. The Kansas City Royals will be one $600 million step closer to a move to downtown Kansas City, Missouri, if a new ordinance introduced by Mayor Quinton Lucas today is passed by the City Council.That ordinance, if adopted, would create a framework for a proposed downtown stadium deal, and clear the way for a move to Kansas City’s Washington Square Park. In the ordinance, Lucas writes the move reaffirms the city’s commitment to retain the Kansas City Royals, and to continue good faith negotiations with the team.If approved, the ordinance would direct the City Manager to negotiate and execute a deal with the following terms: Project includes the development of a stadium, team offices, and infrastructure improvements Location of the stadium would be constructed in and around Washington Square Park and Crown Center area The nearly $2 billion stadium project would be funded through a mix of public and private funding with the City contributing $600 million. This comes with the expectation of \u201csignificant state funding.\u201d The site would be leased to the Kansas City Royals for a period of 30 years. The ordinance calls for the development of lease terms with specific deadlines for the design and construction of the stadium, necessary infrastructure support including pedestrian bridges, transportation access, utility upgrades, traffic improvements and additional necessities.It also contains a commitment from the city to issue $600 million in bonds for the stadium and team offices project, subject to approval by the City Council. In addition, the city commits to provide a sales tax exemption for construction materials. Also mentioned in the ordinance are the development of parking for the project, and an economic development plan for a “Downtown Baseball District.” The ordinance includes plans to negotiate with state, federal and county agencies to secure support for that stadium and district. The ordinance mentions “a public engagement plan” that would include “meaningful consultation” with existing businesses in the area regarding parking rights, access arrangement consideration for businesses operating in the area.The agreement also calls for a plan outlining economic development incentives to support new development in and around the proposed “Downtown Baseball District,” with commitments from the Royals and a TIF, or Tax Increment Financing, Plan to help fund the project.”The project will benefit both the City and the State of Missouri by generating significant economic development and increased taxes in Kansas City, enhancing the density and vibrancy of downtown Kansas City, increasing tourism in Kansas City, retaining and attracting jobs, and generating recreation opportunities for Missouri youth,” the ordinance states.If approved the ordinance would still require \u201csignificant funding\u201d from the state under the “Show-Me Sports Act” which allows professional sports teams to access state funding for stadium development through a new bonding mechanism. From here the ordinance will go for review from the Finance Committee next Tuesday. The Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners will also review the legislation. After the ordinance was announced, the Kansas City Royals issued this statement:”The Kansas City Royals appreciate the work of our City\u2019s leadership \u2014 the Mayor, City Manager, and City Council \u2014 as they take important steps toward continued economic development for our city. We are grateful for their engagement in this process, as well as for the critical work of the State of Missouri, and look forward to more detailed conversations as we consider solutions that are best for our team, our fans, and our community.”Missouri Gov. Kehoe’s statement on the Royals: “The State of Missouri is committed to continue working alongside the Kansas City Royals organization and the City of Kansas City to ensure the Royals remain in Missouri\u2014where they belong.The Kansas City Royals are more than a baseball team\u2014they are an economic driver and a source of pride for Missourians. The Royals serve as a key economic catalyst for Missouri, fueling job creation, boosting local commerce, and enhancing our state\u2019s ability to attract visitors.A new Royals stadium would represent a significant investment in Kansas City\u2019s future, bringing jobs, tourism, and long-term growth. Although we\u2019re not across the finish line yet, the momentum is real and we\u2019re moving in the right direction.\u201dJackson County Executive Phil LeVota’s statement on the proposal”I\u2019m encouraged to see a proposed location on the table for a downtown ballpark at Washington Square Park. It gives us a real opportunity to begin a more informed public conversation about what this means for our community.While this is not a final decision by Jackson County, the State, or the Kansas City Royals, it\u2019s a step forward in the broader discussion about keeping our boys in blue right here in Jackson County.I\u2019ve been in ongoing conversations with the Royals and local leadership, including the Mayor, and will continue working with all partners to ensure Jackson County residents are represented.Any proposal must be transparent, accountable, and make sense for taxpayers. We\u2019re ready to be at the table and to make sure this is done the right way.”\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\tKANSAS CITY, Mo. \u2014 \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n
Related video above: John Sherman says Royals ballpark decision coming “sooner rather than later” in April interview. <\/p>\n
The Kansas City Royals will be one $600 million step closer to a move to downtown Kansas City, Missouri, if a new ordinance introduced by Mayor Quinton Lucas today is passed by the City Council.<\/p>\n
That ordinance, if adopted, would create a framework for a proposed downtown stadium deal, and clear the way for a move to Kansas City’s Washington Square Park. <\/p>\n
In the ordinance, Lucas writes the move reaffirms the city’s commitment to retain the Kansas City Royals, and to continue good faith negotiations with the team.<\/p>\n
If approved, the ordinance would direct the City Manager to negotiate and execute a deal with the following terms:<\/p>\n
Project includes the development of a stadium, team offices, and infrastructure improvements Location of the stadium would be constructed in and around Washington Square Park and Crown Center area The nearly $2 billion stadium project would be funded through a mix of public and private funding with the City contributing $600 million. This comes with the expectation of \u201csignificant state funding.\u201d The site would be leased to the Kansas City Royals for a period of 30 years. \t<\/p>\n