Kansas City Royals Propose $1.9B Stadium Project at Washington Square Park

City leaders unveil plans for new downtown baseball stadium and mixed-use development.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:19am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the proposed Kansas City Royals stadium and surrounding development, with sharp planes of blue, green, and yellow representing the various elements of the project.A conceptual rendering of the proposed $1.9 billion Kansas City Royals stadium project, which would transform the city's iconic Washington Square Park.Kansas City Today

Kansas City officials have announced a $1.9 billion proposal to build a new stadium for the Kansas City Royals baseball team at Washington Square Park in the downtown area. The project would also include related commercial and residential development around the new ballpark.

Why it matters

The proposed stadium project represents a major investment in Kansas City's downtown core and could provide an economic boost to the area, but has also raised concerns about the impact on the existing Washington Square Park and potential displacement of local residents.

The details

The $1.9 billion proposal calls for a new 38,000-seat retractable-roof stadium to replace the Royals' current Kauffman Stadium, which opened in 1973. The new stadium would be located at Washington Square Park, requiring the relocation or redevelopment of the existing park. The project would also include 1 million square feet of commercial space, 800 residential units, and 2,500 parking spaces.

  • The proposal was unveiled by Kansas City officials on April 10, 2026.
  • The Royals' current lease at Kauffman Stadium expires in 2030.

The players

Kansas City Royals

The professional baseball team that currently plays at Kauffman Stadium and is proposing the new $1.9 billion downtown stadium project.

Washington Square Park

The existing public park in downtown Kansas City that would be impacted by the proposed stadium development.

Kansas City Officials

Local government leaders who have unveiled the plans for the new Royals stadium and related development.

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What they’re saying

“This project represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our downtown and create a world-class sports and entertainment destination.”

— Quinton Lucas, Mayor of Kansas City

“While we understand the potential economic benefits, we have serious concerns about the impact on Washington Square Park and the surrounding neighborhood.”

— Sarah Williams, Resident of Washington Square District

What’s next

The proposal will now go through a public review and approval process, with the city council expected to vote on the project plan by the end of 2026.

The takeaway

The proposed Royals stadium project represents a high-stakes development decision for Kansas City, balancing the potential economic benefits against the impact on an iconic public space and nearby residential areas. The outcome will shape the future of the city's downtown for years to come.