American professional women’s soccer team Kansas City NWSL have announced plans to construct the first-ever football stadium built specifically for a women’s professional team.
The club recently made their National Women’s Soccer League debut this season, and are already breaking new territory after the club’s ownership group were awarded a franchise over 10 months ago.
The project is estimated to cost $70 million, with the team signing a 50-year lease on a 7.08 acre site named Parcel 8, situated at the Berkley Riverfront in Kansas City, Missouri. Dedicated entirely to the women’s team and privately financed through the club’s ownership group, the news follows previous plans for a $15 million training facility in Riverside, Missouri.
Kansas City NWSL Co-Founder and Co-Owner Chris Long, whilst speaking on the proposed plans, stated:
“From the beginning, our vision has been to create a player-first experience, and facilities for our team that match not only the elite level of these incredible athletes, but also the passionate support of the Kansas City metro and our fans,”
“We believe this significant investment and commitment will shape a stronger future for our entire region and our athletes.”
“The goals for reclaiming our long-neglected riverfront have been bold but clear – develop a connected, accessible, vibrant and diverse neighborhood,” said Port KC President and CEO Jon Stephens. “Anchoring a dynamic facility such as this on the downtown riverfront, and connecting it to the heart of our city with the KC Streetcar, trails and greenspace not only solidifies our commitment, but also proves that there is no better place for our community and the world to gather.”