Exciting Changes in Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza
It’s been just about three months since HP Village Management took the reins of the iconic Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, and already, locals are noticing a difference! If you’ve strolled through recently, you might have spotted some fresh paint, new lighting, and a cleaner atmosphere. President of HP Village Management, Ray Washburne, shared that they’ve even boosted the security budget by a whopping one million dollars to ensure visitors feel safe and welcomed.
Addressing Community Needs
One of the biggest focuses since the management change has been engaging with the tenants. Washburne mentioned, “We’ve talked to every tenant to assess their needs and success.” This open line of communication is crucial, especially as the team scouts for new stores in New York City. But instead of just bringing in the usual suspects, they’ve set their sights on something unique that Kansas City has been craving – a local food and beverage scene.
Washburne emphasized that while Kansas City boasts a fantastic culinary reputation, much of it isn’t represented in the Plaza. He confidently stated, “We’re going to bring that here.” This commitment to local businesses shows that HP Village is not only interested in profit but in fostering a genuine Kansas City community vibe.
Grocery Store Buzz
Another hot topic among locals is the possibility of adding a grocery store or bodega to the Plaza’s offerings. Recently, rumors have swirled about a potential Trader Joe’s opening its doors there, and it seems many residents would welcome it with open arms. Washburne mentioned the influx of “fan mail” they’ve received suggesting everything from grocery stores to unique local vendors. “Dealing with the preservation groups and the neighborhood groups, we’re all on the same page of what we want to do here,” he added, reflecting the strong support from the community.
Community Engagement
Speaking of community support, Kate Marshall, president of the Plaza District Council, praised HP Village’s commitment to working closely with local groups. “I had a couple hundred people come out and listen to Ray share his vision in person,” Marshall remarked. Attendees appreciated the chance to meet with Washburne, who welcomed feedback and encouraged a positive dialogue with locals.
Marshall’s observations about the initiatives seem to resonate with the community too. “It’s tiny little incremental pieces that together leave you with the impression that this is a cared-for community,” she noted, highlighting the thoughtful touches being implemented around the Plaza.
What’s Next for the Plaza?
So, what can residents expect in the coming months? Washburne teased some street construction set to kick off this spring. It turns out that a lot of the infrastructure dates back to the 1930s, and it’s high time for an upgrade. “We need to rip the streets out and redo them because we got to get to the underground utility work,” he stated.
But the goal is ambitious: they aim to complete the project before Kansas City hosts the World Cup in 2026. Washburne has big dreams for the Plaza, excited to transform it into a destination the community can be proud of when welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors. “This will be a proud place you’ll want to bring them,” he assured.
With all these exciting changes on the horizon, it’s safe to say that the Country Club Plaza is poised for a bright future. Residents should keep an eye out for new developments and get ready to enjoy what will surely be an even more vibrant community hub.
