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Group has big plans for buildings near 18th & Vine built in 1800s

Posted at 10:34 PM, Aug 22, 2018
and last updated 2018-08-22 23:34:33-04

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A group of developers plan to renovate a set of buildings from the 1800s near 18th and Vine that have been vacant since 1994.

Both the City Water and Street Department buildings, which sit along the 2000 block of Vine Street, are believed to have been built following the Civil War but are now covered in graffiti.

After decades of being abandoned, the site could once again have some activity.

“There’s a lot of graffiti but there’s a lot of character here,” said developer Tim Duggan. “They just don’t build buildings like this anymore.”

Duggan, who is working with a team of developers on the project, said one of the buildings will house office space for businesses.

The site could also be home to an outdoor event space and other possibilities.

“We’re looking at AirBnBs close to 18th and Vine to having speakeasies to outdoor music venues,” Duggan said. “This is going to be a very wide open environment that complements this mixed-use workspace a great deal.”

Plenty of work still remains for the site.

During a tour on Wednesday, Duggan told 41 Action News that his team plans to add roofs, windows, and utilities to both buildings.

While the plans for the second building are still to be determined, the development team hopes the project can help the 18th & Vine area.

“When we think about the history here in these buildings, it really represents what this district is all about,” said developer Jason Parson. “I want to make sure that when we program these buildings, we do it with the mindset of having a lasting impact.”

Parson told 41 Action News that by attracting business and using the space, the project could help push the district forward.

“What we do will have a lasting impact and I want to make sure it’s one of positivity,” he said. “We have to be intentional in our dealings in making sure that those we bring in are supportive and understand and see the vision of the district as a whole.”