KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City, Missouri, City Council's Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee passed a project that will redevelop the historic Boone Theater in the 18th and Vine District.
The plans for the theater include an outdoor event space and co-working space on vacant land to the east of the lot, according to a release from the city.
The Boone Theater is at 1701 E 18th St. and was originally opened as the New Rialto Theater in 1924. The Boone Theater, as well as other area theaters, "served as a vital core to the commercial and entertainment center created by the African American community in the 18th and Vine District," the release said.
A transformative project to redevelop the historic Boone Theater in the 18th & Vine District passed through the NPD Council Committee meeting this afternoon!
— Kansas City, MO (@KCMO) September 22, 2021
Read more about this project & other exciting efforts in the works at 18th & Vine: https://t.co/9njvbTRBrJ #KCMO pic.twitter.com/TIz5kkyM3Y
“Elevating City investments at 18th and Vine demonstrates equity in action,” 3rd District Councilwoman Melissa Robinson said. “It is strategically wise to remediate blight in historical neighborhoods with unparalleled tourism appeal. I look forward to partnering with the development team to restore the Boone Theater to a vibrant and enjoyable space for residents and visitors.”
Robinson, who represents the 18th and Vine District, also said that projects in the district build economic activity in the area.
There are 15 other investment projects proposed or underway in the district.
