Kansas City, Missouri – In a major step to change Kansas City’s urban landscape, the City Council recently authorized a large financial package that opens the path for Parade Park Homes’ renovation. This development marks a substantial investment in what is one of the nation’s earliest Black-owned cooperative housing projects. The decision came with strong support from Mayor Quinton Lucas, Third District at-Large Councilwoman Melissa Patterson Hazley, and Third District Councilwoman Melissa Robinson.
The $300 million reconstruction project is expected to create a vibrant mixed-income neighborhood out of the 18th and Vine area. The project calls for the building of 1,101 affordable homes meant to fit families as well as seniors. This project not only revitalizes the neighborhood but also guarantees former residents their right to return following completion of the new homes.
Emphasizing the simultaneous importance of protecting Kansas City’s legacy while promoting its future expansion, Mayor Lucas demonstrated his excitement about the initiative.
“Parade Park Homes represents both Kansas City’s heritage and our future–and I am proud and honored to be the mayor privileged to ensure this historically Black neighborhood will be strong for generations to come,” said Mayor Lucas. “Today’s Council approval ensures Kansas City will continue to honor Parade Park’s legacy while also creating modern, affordable housing that keeps this community intact and thriving.”
The funding for this ambitious project will draw from various sources, including the City’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund and Shared Success Fund, with potential additional support from the Central City Economic Development Fund. Twelfth Street Heritage and Flaherty & Collins, companies known for their expertise in urban revitalization projects throughout Kansas City, will lead the rebuilding.
“The passage of this ordinance is a signal from my colleagues that they support creating more diverse housing that appeals to multiple ages, income and family size,” said Councilwoman Patterson Hazley. “This project happens to sit in the 3rd district, but it is clear that it benefits the entirety of Kansas City. I am excited to see this project come to fruition.”
“This monumental project is the result of dedicated teamwork and a shared vision to honor and protect our community’s interests,” said Councilwoman Robinson. “I look forward to the groundbreaking ceremony and, more importantly, to breaking bread in residents’ homes when they return to a fully redeveloped Parade Park.”
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Apart from the immediate building ambitions, the finance package includes the establishment of the Parade Park Homes Future Fund. This fund is designed as a sustainable financial resource to support ongoing development and community engagement in future phases of the redevelopment.
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The project promises to be a pillar in Kansas City’s attempts to build a more inclusive and vibrant urban environment with redevelopment is set to start this summer. This all-encompassing strategy for urban redevelopment not only solves housing affordability but also supports the city’s dedication to its historical background and diverse populations.
