Farewell to the pavilion: Overland Park’s Farmers' Market makes way for a fresh start

The Overland Park Farmers’ Market hosted its annual Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. 7, marking the end of an era for the beloved pavilion. The event, held from 8 a.m. to noon, combined the market’s signature farm-fresh produce and local foods with a festive holiday atmosphere, drawing in the community for a morning of celebration and nostalgia.

This year’s market was especially significant as it was the last to take place in the current pavilion before its removal. Attendees were invited to leave farewell messages on the structure, which will be donated to Garnett, Kan., where it will serve as a farmers’ market facility.

Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog addressed the community, reflecting on the pavilion’s legacy and providing updates on the forthcoming improvements. After the 2024 market season, the pavilion will be dismantled to make way for a modern farmers’ market facility and downtown gathering space. The Farmers’ Market will temporarily relocate to the Matt Ross Community Center, just two blocks away, for the 2025 season.

The new facility is set to open in spring 2026 and represents a multi-decade investment in downtown Overland Park. The updated market will include indoor spaces to better accommodate vendors and shoppers and permanent shade structures to enhance comfort in outdoor areas. Additional seating and expanded restroom facilities will create a more inviting environment for visitors. Surrounding public spaces, including Clock Tower Plaza and Marty St., will also receive significant upgrades. During non-market days, parking will remain accessible, ensuring convenience for residents and visitors. The new space is designed to serve as a dynamic venue for concerts, watch parties, and other community events, complementing future private development in the area.

Above: A rendering of the new downtown Overland Park Farmers’ Market layout. Image courtesy of the City of Overland Park

Sustainability is a key focus of the project. The market will feature solar panels on the pavilion roof, electric vehicle charging stations, and reflective pavement and shade structures to reduce heat in outdoor spaces. LED and solar-powered lighting will provide energy-efficient illumination, while native landscaping will enhance the area's aesthetic and environmental value. Recycling and composting facilities will also be available, underscoring the city’s commitment to eco-friendly operations. Construction materials will be locally sourced, low-carbon, and recycled wherever possible to minimize environmental impact. Accessibility and connectivity will also be improved.

The project will maintain the tradition of closing Marty St. on market days to enhance walkability and bike-ability while adding designated bike and scooter parking to support sustainable transportation.

Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2024 and is expected to be completed by summer 2026. The revitalized market and gathering space will become a vibrant centerpiece of downtown Overland Park, combining modern amenities with sustainability and community-focused design. The project is anticipated to play a significant role during the Kansas City metro’s hosting of six World Cup games in 2026, showcasing Overland Park’s dedication to creating a dynamic and welcoming space for residents and visitors alike.

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Header image: A Rendering of the new downtown Overland Park Farmers' Market set to open by Summer 2026. Image courtesy of The City of Overland Park

2024 KCADC Annual Meeting highlights $1.8B of new investment across the region

The Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC) hosted its 2024 Annual Meeting last week, drawing over 2,000 civic and business leaders to celebrate a year of robust regional growth and strategic industry advancements. Under the theme “FLEX,” the event underscored the region’s adaptability as a cornerstone of its success. It highlighted achievements in the Kansas City metro area, including 18 counties across Kansas and Missouri.

Record-Breaking Investments and Job Creation

This year, KCADC and its partners secured commitments from 16 companies, resulting in $1.8 billion in capital investments, nearly 1,500 new jobs, $104.7 million in wages, and 2.3 million SF of new development. These milestones reflect Kansas City’s growing prominence as a hub for innovation and opportunity.

Google’s $1 billion data center in Kansas City, Mo., was among the most notable investments in 2024. Alongside its infrastructure project, Google committed to advancing sustainability by adding 400 megawatts of carbon-free energy to the grid. The company also demonstrated a strong community focus, contributing $100,000 to the North Kansas City School District’s STEM initiatives and announcing an additional $120,000 investment to strengthen STEM programs in Kansas City Public Schools.

Strengthening Global Recognition

Increased media attention has bolstered Kansas City’s growing reputation. Over 630 stories spotlight its economic wins and quality-of-life benefits, reaching an estimated 1.25 billion people globally and enhancing the region’s visibility on the international stage.

KCADC President and CEO Tim Cowden emphasized the importance of leveraging this momentum for future growth, attributing the success to a unified regional vision.

Keynote and Awards

Lisa Bodell, CEO of FutureThink and a best-selling author, delivered the keynote address, offering actionable insights into how simplification can drive efficiency and amplify impact. Her message resonated with attendees, providing tools to help businesses streamline operations and focus on meaningful work.

KCADC has also received accolades for its efforts to promote the region. The organization earned two gold medals from the International Economic Development Council, recognizing its KC Options Magazine and the “KC Design Draft” campaign for excellence in economic development marketing.

Building for the Future

As Kansas City continues to grow, leaders across industries remain focused on fostering a resilient and inclusive economy. From groundbreaking investments in infrastructure and education to enhanced global recognition, the region is poised for sustained success.

The KCADC Annual Meeting reinforced the importance of flexibility and collaboration in shaping the future, ensuring Kansas City remains a leader in innovation and a magnet for talent and investment.

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Header image: Board of Directors incoming co-chair and Evergy President/CEO, David Campbell speaks at the 2024 KCADC Annual Meeting. Image courtesy of the Kansas City Area Development Council