The ongoing renovation to Kemper Arena remains on track, with the repurposed venue set to host its first major event in September.
Ground was broken last September on a $39-million project at Kemper Arena, with the plan being developed by Foutch Brothers. When the project is completed, the venue will be converted into a multi-level facility that is capable of hosting multiple events.
According to the most recent update, the project is currently ahead of schedule and remains on budget. The arena’s first major event, an international pickleball tournament, will be staged on September 20, and officials anticipate that venue will bring benefits to the surrounding area. More from Fox4:
The arena’s $39 million renovation is expected to bring new life to the historic Stockyards District of Kansas City.
“We think it will be transformative for all of Kansas City, but especially the historic West Bottoms,” said Councilman Scott Taylor.
Councilman Taylor and the developer, Steve Foutch, took FOX4 on a tour Tuesday of the old Kemper Arena as the project is ahead of schedule and on budget and set to open this fall.
“We’re about halfway through everything now,” Foutch added.
Originally opening in 1974, Kemper Arena was home to Kansas City’s last NBA and NHL franchises. The NBA’s Kansas City Kings played games there through 1985, while the NHL’s Kansas City Scouts had a much shorter run at the venue, lasting from 1974-1976.
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