KANSAS CITY, Mo. – One of Kansas City’s longest-standing public buildings is losing its long-standing name.
Officials announced Thursday the renaming of Kemper Arena to Hy-Vee Arena.
Kemper Arena will soon have a new name. It will be called Hyvee Arena. Hyvee signed an agreement for exclusive naming rights and other benefits. pic.twitter.com/EiD2pTyPEq
— Cynthia Newsome (@CynthiaNewsome) May 17, 2018
Youth sports activities will be the main focus of events at the new arena.
In addition to dozens of basketball courts, office space, and retail space, Hy-Vee Arena will also have one of the largest indoor tracks in the country with five lanes and 350 meters long.
“The commitment of Hy-Vee is a symbolic step for our re-purposing of this historic facility,” said Steve Foutch, chief executive officer of Foutch Architecture and Development.
Hy-Vee branding will be “prominent” in and around the building.
The 10-year-deal gives Hy-Vee a chance to further its connections in Kansas City, according to Hy-Vee official Drew Holmes.
“We are committed to projects and organizations that support these outreach goals in the cities we serve,” said Holmes. “Hy-Vee Arena is a perfect way for us to celebrate our 30 years of service in the metro, and it will be a fitting extension of our brand in the heart of Kansas City.”
The building is in the midst of a $39 million renovation slated to be complete in September.
