“Key developments like the South Loop Green Deck, Berkley Riverfront mixed-use district and Barney Allis Plaza revamp are reshaping the urban core, while the Panasonic EV battery plant in De Soto is set to add 4,000 jobs,” Vaeth says.

The South Loop Green Deck, a 5.5-acre urban park that is being built above a section of Interstate 670, is planned to provide a walkable space between the central business district and the Crossroads Arts District, featuring green space, accessible play areas, entertainment venues and multimodal transportation options.

The Berkley Riverfront mixed-use development is planned to include more than 2 million sq ft of multifamily residential units, retail shops, restaurants, office space and community areas. The first phase, which broke ground in late 2024, will introduce at least 480 new living units, with completion expected by 2026. At the heart of the district is CPKC Stadium, the world’s first purpose-built stadium for a professional women’s sports team. The 11,500-seat facility is home to the KC Current and serves as a focal point for the surrounding development.

The redevelopment of Barney Allis Plaza in downtown Kansas City aims to transform a deteriorating civic landmark into a bustling, accessible public space. The $90-million initiative is led by the city, with design by HOK Architecture and construction managed by McCownGordon and LM2 Construction.

“This project is reimagining a deteriorated civic space into a vibrant urban park atop a new subterranean parking garage,” Vaeth says. “Building a new underground garage while creating a multiuse plaza above requires intricate engineering and phased construction.”

The new plaza will feature public art, interactive play areas, a dog park and event spaces, making it a cultural and recreational hub for residents and visitors.

Adding to the urban vitality is the KC Streetcar expansion, which is creating a 6.5-mile system to boost transit access and support local businesses. The Main Street extension opened in October, and the Berkley Riverfront extension is expected in early 2026.

“These transit improvements are expected to boost access to jobs, retail and entertainment while supporting local businesses,” Vaeth contends.

Community-focused investments are reflected in a renewed emphasis on educational infrastructure, highlighted by the historic passage of a $474-million bond for Kansas City Public Schools, the first in nearly 60 years. The funding will support renovations across more than 30 schools and nine charter campuses, including new middle and elementary schools, STEAM labs and family empowerment centers.

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Kansas City also recently approved more than $19 million in funding through the Central City Economic Development program to support 15 community-focused projects in the city’s 3rd and 5th Council Districts. The initiative aims to revitalize the urban core by investing in affordable housing, historic preservation, local businesses and cultural projects.

“Kansas City continues to solidify its reputation as a sports architecture hub, with the KC Current Stadium serving as a national model,” Vaeth adds.

Plans for stadium projects for the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs remain under discussion. “The Royals are exploring relocation options after a failed sales tax vote, with Clay County still in the mix and a new stadium targeted for 2028,” says Vaeth. “The Chiefs are weighing a renovation of Arrowhead Stadium versus building a new domed venue in Kansas, with updated renderings and public feedback shaping both paths.”

Meanwhile, Kansas City is also preparing to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is expected to attract approximately 650,000 visitors.

Arrowhead Stadium, home to the Kansas City Chiefs, will host six World Cup matches between June 16 and July 11. To accommodate the influx of visitors, the city is investing in infrastructure improvements, including a $1.5-million upgrade to Stadium Drive to enhance accessibility and aesthetics.

The AEC community is also navigating challenges. “Tariffs have led to a projected 4% increase in construction material prices, with steel, aluminum and copper seeing even higher spikes,” Vaeth notes. “Many suppliers are holding prices for now, but a one-time adjustment is expected before the end of 2025.”

Vaeth says McCownGordon is addressing these challenges with a dedicated preconstruction team that monitors market trends, engages suppliers and collaborates with an economist.

The company also publishes a quarterly economic report to keep clients and partners informed.

“Our insights have attracted attention from national companies seeking guidance,” Vaeth adds. “By staying ahead of market changes and maintaining transparency, we provide more accurate estimates and strategic recommendations.”

Looking ahead, Vaeth predicts a positive outlook, though challenges persist. “Labor shortages are gradually easing, material costs are stabilizing, and interest rates have begun to decline, which could spur more construction starts,” he says. “Technological adoption is accelerating, with firms increasingly using AI, BIM and modular construction to improve efficiency and project delivery.”

He sees growth opportunities in manufacturing, data centers, housing and health care. “Kansas City continues to be a hub for major investments, with demand across housing, health care and evolving care models,” he adds.