Gov. Kelly, Kansas City Chiefs Unveil Plans for Innovative Kansas Stadium
Governor Laura Kelly has announced a transformative venture for Kansas involving the Kansas City Chiefs. This project includes plans for a domed stadium and a mixed-use entertainment district, which are expected to significantly benefit the state’s economy.
Kansas City Chiefs New Stadium Project Details
The agreement, finalized recently, outlines two key components:
- Stadium: A $3 billion domed stadium to be built in Wyandotte County, slated to open at the beginning of the 2031 NFL season.
- Chiefs Headquarters: A new training facility and team headquarters located in Olathe, Johnson County.
This ambitious initiative aims to create 20,000 jobs during the construction phase, resulting in an estimated $4.4 billion economic impact for Kansas. Once operational, the stadium alone is predicted to generate more than $1 billion annually.
Public-Private Partnership
The project will be developed as a public-private partnership, requiring no funds from the existing state budget and imposing no new taxes on Kansas residents. The Legislative Coordinating Council (LCC) has shown strong bipartisan support for this initiative.
Statements from Officials
Governor Kelly expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “This agreement to bring the Chiefs to Kansas takes our state to the next level. We are creating thousands of jobs and attracting tourists.” She emphasized that this development showcases Kansas’s bright future.
Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt praised the collaboration, highlighting its potential to benefit the region and further elevate Kansas City nationally and internationally. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell added that the new stadium will provide a venue for significant events, enriching the community.
Economic Significance and Job Creation
Since 2019, Kansas has successfully attracted over $30 billion in capital investment and created nearly 78,000 jobs. Lieutenant Governor David Toland noted that this stadium project represents a landmark economic win, achieved through bipartisan collaboration.
- Investment Milestones: Kansas has recently celebrated numerous projects aimed at strengthening its economy, including the establishment of a Panasonic headquarters.
- Local Support: Local leaders, including Christal Watson from Wyandotte County and John Bacon from Olathe, expressed strong support for the Chiefs project, indicating its positive impact on local communities.
- Funding Mechanisms: The financing model will involve 60% public funds and 40% private investment, using STAR bonds and an Attracting Professional Sports Fund to ensure project funding without additional taxes.
The Chiefs’ new stadium and accompanying facilities mark a historic moment for Kansas, promising economic growth and enhanced community engagement for years to come.
