A New Chapter for Kansas City’s Historic Convention Center and Municipal Auditorium

The work builds on Question 2, the $100 million bond Kansas City voters approved in August, which set aside about $75 million for the convention complex, and is part of an estimated $500 million to improve convention spaces over the next decade.

"Kansas Citians voted to preserve our historic gathering spaces while equipping them with the technology and amenities to be competitive in our region and globally," said Mayor Quinton Lucas. "Our convention and entertainment facilities support thousands of Kansas City jobs and dozens of industries that welcome millions of residents and guests each year. Municipal Auditorium and the Music Hall have hosted our biggest moments for nearly a century. The voters have made it possible to create plans to make our historic convention center, H. Roe Bartle Hall, Municipal Auditorium, and the Music Hall structures modern, accessible, and competitive with newer facilities near and far for the next one hundred years, keeping Kansas City the home of great events and special memories."

The first phase, targeted for 2028, includes $75 million in improvements: modernized arena seating, restrooms, and concessions; better accessibility; preservation of the Music Hall; and exterior upgrades that connect the building to Barney Allis Plaza. Municipal Auditorium will also be the new home of UMKC basketball. Later phases, planned through 2036, would connect and modernize the broader Convention Center campus, including new gathering and exhibit spaces at all facilities."

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