KC's $200M Riverfront Project Nears Opening

A monumental transformation is unfolding on the Kansas City riverfront. The first $200 million phase of the Kansas City Current's ambitious mixed-use district, officially named 'Current Landing,' is on track to open its core elements this spring. This milestone arrives just in time for the city to take the global stage as a host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The development, a key part of a projected $1 billion total waterfront investment, broke ground in March 2025 and is rapidly progressing toward its goal of reconnecting Kansas City with the Missouri River, a long-held civic ambition.

The project is a collaborative effort between the KC Current, owned by Angie and Chris Long, and partners Palmer Square Capital Management, Marquee Development, and Port KC. According to a December 2025 announcement, the initial phase is set to deliver a vibrant, pedestrian-focused neighborhood. "Current Landing realizes our vision for a true neighborhood on the riverfront," the Longs stated. "Through Current Landing, we are proud to welcome a new era of vibrant riverfront experiences for generations of Kansas Citians to come."

The initial $200 million phase, now nearing completion, is substantial. It includes 429 multifamily residential units, 48,000 square feet of retail space, and over two acres of public gathering space. This features a new town square adjacent to CPKC Stadium and a riverfront promenade designed for year-round community events. As reported by OurSports Central, this phase is designed to create a new, walkable waterfront neighborhood anchored by the stadium and Berkley Riverfront Park.

Two residential buildings, 'River’s Edge' and 'Confluence,' began pre-leasing in January, with move-ins scheduled for this spring. The development will also introduce a new culinary scene, with developers teasing more than 10 new restaurants and bars from both nationally recognized and local chefs. According to a press release from the team, "Current Landing will quickly become Kansas City’s new culinary hub," with initial openings planned for spring 2026.

The project represents a massive private investment in the city's infrastructure and economy. An economic impact study cited by the Kansas City Current estimates the first phase alone will generate over $210 million in city economic output and $310 million for the state over 30 years. Port KC, which owns the land, has granted tax abatements for the project, which is still expected to yield $30 million for local taxing jurisdictions over 25 years on land that currently generates no tax revenue.

A significant component of the development is a commitment to affordable housing. Across all phases, 10% of residential units will be reserved for residents earning up to 50% of the area median income, creating hundreds of new affordable units. Mayor Quinton Lucas praised the project's scale and impact, stating, "Representing the most exciting development along Kansas City’s riverfront in over a century, Current Landing offers some of the best live, work, and play amenities in the Midwest. Kansas City is proud to be the home of Current Landing and cannot wait to welcome thousands of residents, neighbors, and visitors to Kansas City’s most dynamic new neighborhood," as reported by KCUR.

With core elements opening this spring, Current Landing is poised to become a central hub for Kansas City during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The new town square is expected to be highly active with watch parties and other community events throughout the tournament. This accelerated timeline showcases the project's strategic importance to the city's preparations for the global event.

Beyond the World Cup, the Current Landing town square will be programmed year-round with events like movie nights, food festivals, and live music, creating a continuous draw to the riverfront. The development is a key piece in a larger revitalization puzzle for the Berkley Riverfront, which has seen over 1,000 new apartments, a new hotel, and the extension of the KC Streetcar, which is also expected to begin service this year. As residents and businesses begin to occupy Current Landing this spring, Kansas City will witness the next chapter of its urban core's evolution.