Residents of Jackson County, Missouri, voted on Tuesday on a ballot measure to extend a sales tax to fund a new downtown ballpark for the Royals and major renovations to Arrowhead Stadium for the Chiefs. The current three-eighths of a cent sales tax that has been paying for the Truman Sports Complex would be replaced with a new tax for the next 40 years. The Royals plan to use their share of the tax revenue to help fund a $2 billion-plus ballpark district, while the Chiefs would use their share for an $800 million overhaul of Arrowhead Stadium.
The franchises have committed to contribute $260 million annually towards social and economic causes in the community under the new lease terms. Both the Royals and the Chiefs have expressed that they would explore their options, including leaving Kansas City, if the tax extension does not pass. The current lease at the Truman Sports Complex lasts through Jan. 31, 2031. Chiefs coach Andy Reid, who voted early on Tuesday, expressed support for the project, drawing on his experience with similar projects in Philadelphia.
The stadium plans have faced significant public pushback, with concerns about the impact on existing businesses and congestion in the surrounding areas. The Royals initially proposed two locations for their new ballpark district last fall but eventually settled on a different downtown location known as the Crossroads. While there are mixed feelings among voters, the team believes the stadium will bring economic benefits to the area. Questions remain about the impact of the stadium on local businesses and traffic, as well as the sales agreements with landowners in the Crossroads.
The Royals aim to move into the new stadium for opening day in 2028, while the Chiefs are focused on renovating Arrowhead Stadium to enhance the fan experience. The Chiefs emphasize the importance of proper financing to carry out the renovations and improvements to the stadium. The success of the Chiefs, including three Super Bowl titles in the last five years, is seen as a selling point to sway voters. Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt stresses the significance of the stadium to the fanbase and the importance of maintaining the connection between the team and its supporters.
Overall, the future of the Royals and Chiefs in Kansas City hinges on the outcome of the ballot measure and the decision by residents of Jackson County to extend the sales tax. The franchises have outlined their plans for a new ballpark district and stadium renovations, emphasizing the economic and social impact on the community. As the vote unfolds, the fate of these two iconic sports teams in Kansas City remains uncertain, with implications for their long-term presence in the city.
