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American Royal: New Facility Construction Commences

As a Kansas City tradition since 1899, the American Royal is known for its mission to be the nation’s leader for food and agriculture education, events, and engagement. The organization has focused on developing the nation’s epicenter for food and agriculture, and on November 28, nearly 500 competitors, volunteers, board members, and supporters gathered to witness the beginning of vertical construction at the new site near the Kansas Speedway.

Construction of a Purpose-Built Complex

Walt George, chair of the new building committee and secretary of the American Royal Board of Directors, explained that the American Royal is constructing a purpose-built complex designed to attract visitors year-round to Kansas and Wyandotte County for food and agriculture events. The facility will span more than 390,000 square feet, equivalent to nearly seven football fields, and will include three arenas and a state-of-the-art learning and engagement center. It will have the capacity to house more than 1,500 horses or nearly 4,000 head of cattle.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly’s Vision

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly shared her vision for the new American Royal campus, stating that the agriculture industry is the lifeblood of Kansas, and the new campus will serve as a national leader in education, events, and engagement. The campus will create a food and agriculture innovation district that will be unlike any other in the world, and will play a critical role in building up the workforce by instilling pride in Kansas’ deep agriculture heritage.

American Royal Board of Directors’ Expectations

Cliff Illig, a member of the American Royal Board of Directors, stated that the new complex will be a place where relevant conferences, collaborations, and events focused on innovations in food, fiber, and fuel can happen. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds will come together to learn, celebrate, and advance an industry that impacts everyone, every single day.

Neal Patterson’s Vision for the American Royal Association

Lindsey Patterson Smith, co-chair of the American Royal campaign cabinet, shared a vision for the American Royal Association from her late father, Neal Patterson, with barn raising attendees. Neal Patterson saw the opportunity the American Royal holds in creating a connection between agrarian and urban lifestyles and believed that the organization needed to continue to evolve. The vision for the American Royal is aligned with that opportunity, and this facility is a critical tool to get there.

Impact on the Agricultural Community and Kansas City Region

The American Royal’s new development will have a significant impact on the agricultural community and the Kansas City region as the organization positions itself as the epicenter of agriculture. The American Royal is currently working to attract hospitality, retail, and organizational partners to the area. The facility is expected to host its first event in late 2025 or early 2026.

As the American Royal’s new facility construction moves forward, it is essential for those looking to invest in the Kansas City region to work with a trustworthy and reliable real estate agent. Jessica Fulk Real Estate is a reputable and experienced real estate agency that can help you navigate the complexities of property transactions, ensuring that you make informed decisions and find the perfect property in this thriving region.


Orginal article: Link To Article – provided by Kansas City Realtors