Posts by Tommy Felts
What comes after the World Cup? Leaders ponder KC’s next phase (and how to get there)
Editor’s note: The following is the first in a four-part series exploring the verticals and impact of initiatives within the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City through a paid partnership with EDCKC. EDCKC leader: Tapping Kansas City’s full potential requires coordinated eco devo strategy across region Tracey Lewis has lived and worked in some of…
Read MoreClock is ticking on World Cup 2026: Small businesses urged to prepare before this buzzer-beater
A massive influx of visitors are expected next year when more than 600,000 fans descend on Kansas City for its piece of the FIFA World Cup 2026 prize, but potential roadblocks lie ahead for small business owners who are waiting for the action instead of preparing now to capitalize on it, said local leaders. “This…
Read MoreWhy KCMO pushed to lock down ‘Kansas City’ brand ahead of its biggest sports event yet
With World Cup visitors already eyeing plane tickets to Kansas City for matches opening in June 2026, clarity around what constitutes “Kansas City” will be key, said Quinton Lucas, who in late 2024 made moves to restrict labeling the city’s name on certain projects. The effort aims to authentically represent KCMO on the world’s stage,…
Read More$20M project expected to remove key barrier to unlocking 18th & Vine vibrancy: parking
It’s more than just a parking garage, said Pat Jordan, revealing a plan to develop a state-of-the-art, transit-oriented parking facility in the heart of the historic 18th & Vine District is about opening a gateway to the entertainment and cultural hub. “Limited parking has historically been a barrier for visitors, especially during peak hours and…
Read MoreDowntown KCMO ballpark remains in play as Kansas aggressively pursues Royals
Editor’s note: The perspectives expressed in this commentary are the author’s alone. Gib Kerr is the chair of the Downtown Council of Kansas City, Missouri, managing director at Cushman & Wakefield, and an author. This piece was first published by the Downtown Council. Where should the Royals play baseball? Last year, the debate was whether…
Read More

