This project originated as a grassroots effort to reimagine Grand Boulevard in Downtown Kansas City, Missouri as a game-changing catalyst sustainable project, connecting the Missouri River, Downtown, Crossroads and Crown Center districts through an iconic streetscape project.

BNIM, in collaboration with Crandall Arambula and the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, engaged Downtown stakeholders to create a vision for a complete, green, and livable Grand Boulevard. The team’s conceptual design for the plan creates a sustainable “complete street” that will improve vehicular, pedestrian, bicycle, and multi-modal transportation, increase economic viability, efficiently manage stormwater and runoff, find “green” solutions, and create inviting places for pedestrians.

By removing a lane of traffic in both directions, the 2.7 mile corridor can be transitioned into a tree-lined corridor connecting regional parks at both ends of project with a series of interconnected park and urban spaces, while still maintaining adequate level of service for automobiles. By incorporating landscaping and stormwater management practices, the project supports a better quality of life for residents and visitors. Movement north and south is encouraged through various complete street concepts linking different neighborhoods and employment areas. Protected and bidirectional bike lanes promote additional transportation options, and are specifically designed for the most vulnerable and hesitant riders. Wide sidewalks with cafes and other at-grade retail, shortened pedestrian crossings, and enhanced crosswalks are incorporated throughout to improve the pedestrian experience. Infill areas and proposed additional park land is incorporated throughout the corridor. Areas currently occupied with surface parking lots and areas adjacent to existing destinations zones are recommended for early phase development. Special plaza zones are located within Crown Center, Sprint Center, 10th Street, and River Market areas.