Major Development to Bring a Wave of Renewal to Historic West Bottoms
Kansas City, MO- A renewed sense of anticipation hovers over Kansas City’s historic West Bottoms neighborhood as plans to break ground for a multi-million-dollar development were recently announced. Once a bustling hub of entertainment and commerce, the area, known for its rich history, food, and antique stores, has seen many of its buildings sitting empty for years. The impending development, however, promises to breathe new life into the once thriving district.
Renewed Hope for a Historic District
Terry Sanchez, owner of Weird Stuff Antiques, has had his business situated in the neighborhood for almost a decade. He recounts how the area has been relatively understated since he moved in. Sanchez said, “When we moved down here, there was no one here except the lunchbox. It’s slow. I mean it’s mostly trucks down here with the commercial businesses and stuff.”
In a bid to reignite the vibrancy of West Bottoms, a reputable development firm, Somera Road Inc., is set to invest $500 million to revamp the locale. Their plan includes the integration of new apartments matched with retail and office spaces within a period spanning 15-20 years.
Pioneers Welcoming Change
The proposed development has been greeted with enthusiasm by both new and old stakeholders in the area. Amber Arnett-Bequeaith, vice president of Full Moon Productions, a company known for overseeing significant entertainment events in West Bottoms, expressed excitement over the new beginning that awaits the district.
“We are excited to partner with the developers that are coming into the West Bottoms and continue to show them what this area is about, the synergy, the location, the history, but keep what is here,” Arnett-Bequeaith said.
With new developments potentially attracting more crowds to the area, enthusiasm for future possibilities blends with a slightly rueful sense of nostalgia. Arnett-Bequeaith quoted, “Look, in the fall, there’s howling werewolves. And in everyday life, there’s trains and planes and automobiles. And you’re going to be bringing more people, which brings a lot more liveliness.”
Preserving Identity Amid Progress
As much as the residents of West Bottoms anticipate the anticipated growth, they also express a desire to preserve the essence of the district. “We want to make the very best district in the United States,” Arnett-Bequeaith said. “We’re all these years forward, and we now are looking at the revitalization of this amazing district. And what you have to remember, this is original Kansas City. This is where it began.”
Updates and further information regarding scheduled developments will be made accessible as progress continues.
