City Invests $3.2 Million in Jazz Museum

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- February 12, 2026

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Council approved $3.2 million to renovate and expand the American Jazz Museum in the Historic Jazz District.

The project will modernize the museum's facilities and create new spaces for visitors to experience Kansas City's rich jazz heritage. The American Jazz Museum, which celebrates jazz as an original American art form, attracts visitors from around the world to its location at one of the country's most important jazz landmarks.

"The American Jazz Museum is a world-class cultural institution right here in Kansas City," said Mayor Quinton Lucas. "The City's investment will help the museum continue sharing our city's incredible jazz history with the next generation."

The renovation plan came out of two major studies that included input from community members and museum stakeholders. The improvements will help the museum better fulfill its mission of education, exhibitions, research, and live performances.

Planned improvements include:

• Relocating the Blue Room performance space to accommodate 180-200 guests
• Creating a new café and expanded retail area
• Reorganizing exhibit spaces, including new temporary exhibition areas
• Improving back-of-house operations for greater efficiency

The $3.5 million project will be funded through a combination of city resources and museum contributions:

• $1.2 million from the 3rd District PIAC Contingency Fund
• $2 million from the Convention and Sports Complex Fund
• $300,000 matching contribution from the American Jazz Museum

"We are excited to amplify our mission through this restoration project," said Stephenie Smith, American Jazz Museum Board Chair. "Improving the American Jazz Museum is a critical step in strengthening our ability to serve our community and visitors from around the world who come to Kansas City to experience jazz history at one of America's great jazz crossroads."

The American Jazz Museum has served as the premier institution celebrating jazz heritage since 1997, offering research facilities, exhibitions, educational programming, and live performances.