A development firm based in Kansas City aims to revitalize the abandoned Kansas City Star building by converting it into a center for artificial intelligence and technology start-ups.
"We are thrilled that the city is showing enthusiasm for revamping this building," stated John Johnson, CEO of Patnos.
Subscribe to our NewslettersJohnson along with his firm, Patmos, has suggested transforming the historical building into an "AI factory" featuring shared workspace designed to cater to Kansas City’s expanding technology sector.
"So essentially, you have individuals who act as both creators and investors concentrated in this area, effectively catering to the demands of Kansas City’s burgeoning technology sector," Johnson stated.
In November 2023, building owner Tony Privitera provided KMBC with a tour of the property as talks heated up regarding the possible construction of a new Royals stadium at the location.
The Chartreuse Saloon, situated right opposite the Star building, fell within the demolition area outlined in the previous stadium plans.
Facing the potential collapse of her business, saloon proprietor Jill Cockson emerged as a prominent critic of the Royals' scheme—an initiative that the voters of Jackson County eventually turned down.
Cockson mentioned that the updated Patmos strategy might enable her enterprise to flourish.
"So this initiative aims to attract individuals who are part of our targeted demographics and visit the area regularly, essentially turning them into loyal customers for the neighborhood," she explained.
Patmos intends to maintain a portion of the structure’s journalistic heritage as well. A display celebrating the Star’s past will be included in the project.
A prominent feature of the structure is a vast, three-level area formerly used as a printing press site; this space is planned to transform into an exhibition hub where innovators and creatives can display their projects and join forces with others.
Although the initial printing press has vanished, a faded newspaper remains attached to a series of sorting rollers, serving as a visible testament to the structure’s rich history.
"Why should this structure remain a massive paperweight?" Johnson asked.
The Kansas City Council will hold the ultimate authority over a suggested rezoning required for the advancement of the redevelopment project.
Johnson stated that multiple firms have shown interest in leasing spaces within the structure. He added that should the proposal be accepted, the initiative might attract numerous well-compensated job opportunities to the region.
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READ THE FULL STORY: A new proposal has been revealed to convert the Kansas City Star building into an AI technology hub.
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