Pedestrian bridge links KC's downtown and riverfront
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Representatives of the city and the KC Current cut the ribbon. Photo: Travis Meier/Axios
The Grand Boulevard pedestrian and bike bridge is officially open.
Why it matters: It's a long-awaited and much-needed link between the highly trafficked River Market and the expanding riverfront, providing a safe and direct route for anyone not driving a car.
Follow the money: After delays increased the cost of construction by roughly 75%, the $15 million bridge was funded through general obligation bonds, future revenue bonds and Bally's Casino lease revenue.
- Leaders at a ribbon-cutting Friday credited Port KC and the KC Streetcar Authority for finding creative funding solutions.
What they're saying: Connectivity is "about making sure people can get safely around our community. Making sure pedestrians aren't having to share spaces with trucks," Mayor Quinton Lucas said at the event as trucks rumbled by.
- City manager Mario Vasquez called it an investment in quality of life.
- "This has been a long time coming," said 4th District Councilmember Eric Bunch, who represents downtown and the riverfront.
- He added it will improve access for people walking, biking and using wheelchairs, as well as for skateboarders.
Zoom out: The Riverfront Heritage Trail also connects the two neighborhoods, although the path is poorly lit and roughly three-tenths of a mile longer.
- The new bridge is outfitted with streetlamps.
Between the lines: Since CPKC Stadium opened in 2024, KC Current fans have used both the riverfront trail and the Grand viaduct roadway to get to games.
- It's not uncommon to see people walking or biking in the roadway, creating safety concerns.
- Gate crashers a month ago even moved barriers to use the bridge before it was open.
What's next: Another connectivity project, the streetcar's Riverfront Extension, will open to the public May 18.