CPKC Stadium Expansion Proposal Would Increase Capacity to 18,000

Photos Courtesy of Marc Viquez

When CPKC Stadium opened in 2024, there was hope that the capacity would be expanded sometime in the future. The future may be now, as Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas introduced an ordinance to expand the home of the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League.

The project will increase the stadium’s capacity from 11,500 to 18,000, and expand the district around the stadium and a parking garage. The estimated cost is $1.4 billion, which also includes the completed construction of the riverfront district, named Current Landing.

The legislation says the city could issue up to $235 million in special obligation bonds that would include additional funding from Current owners and investments from the state of Missouri. In addition to expanding the stadium's capacity, the legislation aims to enhance the waterfront through new public trails, expanded public spaces, and additional community amenities.

CPKC Stadium was the first of its kind built for a professional women’s soccer club in 2024 and was privately funded at $117 million. The Current has sold out every one of its home games in its first three years. The city has embraced the women’s club by donning the team's teal and red colors. Fans flock downtown hours before kickoff, generating an energy rarely seen elsewhere in the NWSL.

Stadium Journey was in town for a game in March of 2024 and had this to say about the game-day experience.

“CPKC Stadium might be the template for women’s soccer stadiums in the United States. The design, culinary features, location, and environmental thinking will make others take notice when constructing stadiums of their own in other cities. The fanbase has embraced the club and has made attending a home match the place to be on a Saturday night.”

The expansion of the venue could help the city in its bid to be a host city for the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the 2031 Men’s Rugby World Cup, and the 2033 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

 "We look to build on the momentum, expanding a stadium district that will draw more visitors, create jobs, help Kansas City compete for more global and national events, and strengthen our riverfront for generations to come, “ Lucas added in a press release.

The City Council will review the ordinance on June 23.

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Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com