Kansas City, MO, September 21, 2026 — The Gardner City Council has taken a significant step towards the development of a large-scale district focused on entertainment, arts, and education. In a unanimous decision, the council approved the rezoning of 214 acres of land situated along Interstate 35. This approval paves the way for a project envisioned to encompass a wide array of attractions and facilities.

The development initiative is spearheaded by Velocity Arts, a company tasked with bringing the proposed district to fruition. While the full scope of the project is still unfolding, initial plans indicate a comprehensive mix of cultural, recreational, and hospitality venues. These planned features include a dedicated performing arts center designed to host various productions, and a concert pavilion intended for live musical performances and events.

Further details provided about the planned district also mention a recreational lagoon, suggesting an emphasis on outdoor activities and leisure. Alongside these amenities, the project is slated to include a hotel, which would likely cater to visitors attending events or utilizing the district’s facilities. A notable component of the planned development is an Esports arena, highlighting a focus on the rapidly growing competitive gaming industry.

The rezoning approval marks a key milestone for the project. The specific date of the council’s approval was not provided in the summary. The land designated for this district is strategically located along I-35, indicating potential benefits for accessibility and visibility for future visitors and patrons. The exact timeline for construction and the operational start date for the various planned venues remain to be detailed.



Story summarized from the original created by Chandler Watkins on www.kctv5.com, see more information here.

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