The Kansas City Chiefs and Royals faced a setback in early April when voters in Jackson County, Mo. rejected a 3/8 cent sales tax to fund the Royals’ move to the East Crossroads district and the Chiefs’ renovations at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium by a 58% to 42% margin. Chiefs owner Clark Hunt expressed disappointment over the results, stating that they had been working on this project for several years.
Following the failed vote, the Chiefs are now considering their next steps. Hunt disclosed that they will not collaborate with the Royals on the next stadium project and will instead pursue independent plans. The decision to go separate ways was agreed upon by both teams, with the Chiefs having the momentum as back-to-back Super Bowl champions. Although the tax may have passed for the Chiefs’ renovation alone, some taxpayers were hesitant to support the Royals’ larger plan without enough specifics on revitalizing downtown.
The proposed $800 million renovations at GEHA Field included various improvements such as an activation zone, new parking structures, additional suites, video boards, and more. With the funding now uncertain, Hunt mentioned that all options are on the table, including the possibility of building a new stadium at a new location. Despite rumors of a move to Kansas City, Kan., Hunt has not engaged with Kansas government officials about relocating the Chiefs.
With six-and-a-half years left on their current stadium lease, the Chiefs are under pressure to swiftly develop a new plan. Hunt emphasized the importance of urgency in their decision-making process and the potential for remaining at Arrowhead Stadium, a special place for their fanbase. While open to renovation, Hunt acknowledged the need to be flexible in their approach moving forward given the circumstances.
Looking ahead, the Chiefs will assess their design plans from the past few years to determine if enhancements can be made. Hunt remains hopeful that Arrowhead Stadium could remain their home for another 25 years with the right renovation. However, the uncertainty surrounding the funding for their stadium improvements poses a significant challenge that the Chiefs will need to navigate carefully in the coming months. The team’s future in Kansas City remains uncertain as they explore various options for their stadium development plans.
