Kansas City committee approves $600M funding framework for new Royals ballpark

The Kansas City Council’s Finance Committee has unanimously approved a development and financing framework for a new $1.9 billion Royals ballpark at Crown Center. The plan includes $600 million in city funding, consisting of $90 million for infrastructure and $510 million in city-backed bonds. The Kansas City Royals would commit at least $760 million toward the project and cover any cost overruns.

The new stadium is intended to replace Kauffman Stadium and is projected to open in 2030. The project is part of a larger $3 billion mixed-use development. The Royals would sign a 30-year lease with five options for two-year extensions. Final approval from Major League Baseball is also required.

The committee hearing was marked by significant public tension. While supporters highlighted the project as a potential job creator, opponents criticized the speed of the process and the use of public funds without a direct public vote. During the hearing, Darrell Miller, a leader with the Missouri Workers Center, was forcibly removed by security and handcuffed after protesting the handling of speaker time. The proposal now moves to the full City Council for a vote.