Exciting Changes on the Horizon for Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza
Hey there, Kansas City! We’re buzzing with excitement here as the Country Club Plaza, our beloved *jewel shopping district*, is gearing up for some big changes, thanks to its new owners – Ray Washburne and his family team at HP Village Partners. After years of feeling a bit down in the dumps, it looks like the Plaza is ready for a revitalization that could really bring it back to life.
Reimagining the Plaza
Twenty minutes into a heartwarming interview in Dallas, Washburne held up a colorful map showing the envisioned future of the Plaza. *“We’re calling it the Paseo District,”* he said, referring to the southwestern corner of the Plaza where empty storefronts currently stand. His vision includes wider sidewalks and outdoor dining, which sounds so inviting! Just imagine stolling along beautifully restored brick streets with grand fountains at every corner!
It’s hard to believe, but this transformation follows the Plaza’s purchase for *$175.6 million*, a whopping 73% less than what the previous owners paid just eight years ago! That’s quite the bargain for a place that has been part of our city’s charm for over a century. Washburne is buoyant about the future, suggesting it’s time to turn “a lot of nothing into a lot of something.” Now, who wouldn’t want to be part of that magic?
Plans on the Drawing Board
So, what exactly does Washburne have in mind? His plans, already broadly outlined, include a mix of contemporary touches while respecting the Plaza’s famed Spanish architecture. Think *new security measures*, a *boutique hotel*, and more locally-owned restaurants replacing the usual chain fare. Washburne emphasizes that they really want to focus on *walkability* – making sure the Plaza feels inviting for both locals and visitors alike.
One fabulous idea in the works is the “barbell” concept which aims to create two distinct restaurant districts that feel like cozy “villages.” The first, *the Paseo District*, will be around popular spots like Gram & Dun and offer a wide variety of dining options. The second district aims to draw folks in from the east side, where other well-known eateries like Fogo de Chão currently stand. How delightful will it be to hop from one charming nook to another, discovering unique culinary gems along the way!
Creating Space for Fun
And it’s not all about dining! Washburne and his team are open to “*addition through subtraction*,” meaning they plan to downsize some retail footprints to encourage more engaging, walkable spaces. Imagine pocket parks and intimate areas for people to gather and enjoy life! They are also looking to repurpose existing buildings, giving our Plaza a fresh new vibe without losing its storied character.
Beautiful Updates Ahead
There’s even talk of replacing those dreary asphalt streets with lovely brick, adding in mature trees along with lush landscaping. The end goal? A picturesque environment for everyone to enjoy. There have also been mentions of grand fountains to slow down traffic and enhance the beauty of the area. It seems like they really do want the Plaza to be the picturesque place we all dream about!
Focus on Community
Washburne’s plans reach beyond mere aesthetics; he’s keen on fostering a sense of community. He recognizes that visitors currently lack reasons to linger at the Plaza during the day, aside from shopping. *“I want to bring in a small grocery – a bodega-type spot,”* Washburne explained, highlighting his vision of a welcoming space where you can grab a coffee or a sandwich made fresh right on the premises. What a fantastic idea for our morning strolls and quick lunch breaks!
What’s Next?
Though the plans are ambitious, no formal timelines have been set just yet. However, Washburne estimates that infrastructure work may begin around the first quarter of 2025. It’s important to note that this vision is not just a one-shot deal – it’s a process that will evolve over time with a clear goal in mind to keep the Plaza not only beautiful but also buzzing with activity.
In conclusion, as Kansas City residents, we have every reason to feel *excited* about the future of our beloved Country Club Plaza. With its fresh new owners bringing renewed energy and thoughtful plans, it seems like the Plaza could soon reclaim its title as a **charming hub** of shopping and dining. Stay tuned, folks – it’s going to be an exciting ride!
