The Kansas City Chiefs are at a crossroads when it comes to their stadium situation, with key decisions on the horizon regarding whether to renovate Arrowhead Stadium or build a new venue. As the Chiefs approach the end of March, they are faced with a tight deadline to decide their next move. According to Kevin Kietzman of KCMO Radio’s “Uncancelled”, the team holds options on five pieces of land in Kansas, which will expire on March 31st. If the Chiefs want to extend these land options, they would need to pay millions of dollars to maintain exclusivity on the sites.
The New Stadium Proposal: The Legends in Kansas City, Kansas
The most attractive piece of land for the Chiefs appears to be on the northeast corner of I-435 and I-70, near The Legends in Kansas City, Kansas (KCK). This location is gaining traction as the potential site for a new stadium, with Chiefs President Mark Donovan fully backing the project. The new stadium would feature a retractable roof, allowing the Chiefs to play in cold weather while also opening the door to hosting major events like the Super Bowl and international games like CONCACAF tournaments.
Donovan is reportedly “100% all in” on this vision for the future of the Chiefs, pushing for a stadium that would not only meet the team’s needs but also provide a better business deal for the franchise. Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt is said to be on board with the idea, indicating that if the state of Missouri continues to present obstacles, the team might be willing to move across the state line to KCK. The new stadium could be a significant boost for the Chiefs, helping them secure future major events and solidifying the team’s position in Kansas City for decades to come.
Arrowhead Stadium Renovation Still an option
While a new stadium is an attractive option, the Chiefs are also considering renovations to Arrowhead Stadium, which has been the team’s home since 1972. In February 2024, the Chiefs unveiled plans for an $800 million renovation to modernize Arrowhead while maintaining its original shape. The Chiefs proposed that $300 million of the cost be covered by the team, with the remaining $500 million funded by public sources.
However, the renovation proposal hit a roadblock in April 2024, when voters in Jackson County, where Arrowhead Stadium is located, rejected a sales tax measure that would have funded the renovation. This rejection has left the Chiefs exploring other options, including the possibility of moving forward with the new stadium plan.
Surveying Fans and Working with Local Authorities
The Chiefs have been surveying their fans to gather input on potential new stadium concepts and renovations. With the future of Arrowhead Stadium uncertain, the team is taking steps to ensure they have community support for whichever direction they choose. Local authorities, including the state and county, are involved in discussions about potential funding mechanisms and the possibility of a public vote on the new stadium proposal.
As the Chiefs work toward finalizing their decision, Mark Donovan and the rest of the franchise leadership are weighing their options carefully. They hope to have a clearer direction on their stadium’s future by spring 2025.
Next Steps: Stadium Decision in Spring 2025
The Chiefs are working to determine their long-term stadium plans, and spring 2025 will be a critical time for the organization to finalize its approach. Whether they opt to renovate Arrowhead Stadium or move ahead with building a new facility, one thing is certain—the Chiefs’ future in Kansas City hinges on a decision that will shape the team’s legacy and its ability to compete for years to come.
