Groundbreaking

Westport Stormwater Improvements Project Breaks Ground

Project advances critical flood mitigation efforts in one of Kansas City’s busiest commercial districts

For immediate release: 4/23/25

In partnership with design-builder Burns & McDonnell and key stakeholders, KC Water officially broke ground today on the Westport Stormwater Improvements Project—a major infrastructure investment to reduce frequent flash flooding in the historic Westport neighborhood.

The project introduces innovative flood mitigation strategies to protect local homes, businesses, and infrastructure from the impact of severe weather. Two large underground stormwater storage facilities, one at Dr. Jeremiah Cameron Park and the other beneath the Sun Fresh Market parking lot, will temporarily store excess runoff during storms, easing pressure on the area’s combined sewer system.

"The Westport Stormwater Improvements Project addresses a pressing need in one of Kansas City's most treasured districts. Westport is a vital economic and entertainment hub for our city. Investing in Westport stormwater infrastructure improvements make us safer, protects local businesses, enhances public spaces, and ensures Westport remains a prime destination for future generations” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas.

“This project is a fine example of incorporating green infrastructure to provide stormwater improvements to a vital part of our community” said KC Water Director Kenneth Morgan.

In addition to stormwater improvements, the project will modernize Mill Street with green infrastructure features that better manage runoff while creating safer, more accessible spaces for pedestrians and vehicles. Dr. Jeremiah Cameron Park will also undergo landscape enhancements, including a new pedestrian path into the Westport entertainment district, increased accessibility, additional public space, and native tree plantings. Dedicated areas have been reserved for future park upgrades.

“This project will address the serious flooding issues that have plagued Westport businesses and residents for decades. When we make major investments in our City’s infrastructure, we make Kansas City more safe and enjoyable for the long-term" said District 4 City councilmember Crispin Rea.

 "This project represents a transformative investment into the Westport area by not only addressing critical flood prevention, but also enhancing quality of life through green infrastructure, pavement upgrades, and significant improvements to Jeremiah Cameron Park. Stakeholder engagement was key in shaping this project to ensure it reflects the community’s strong desire for more functional, inclusive, and accessible public spaces” said District 4 City councilmember Eric Bunch

Reducing chronic flooding in Westport will enhance safety and support continued economic growth. While the project will not eliminate all flooding, it is expected to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of events that have historically impacted the area every 1–2 years.

“Flooding has been a concern in the Westport area for a long time, and we are excited to see this project bring meaningful solutions,” said Kerrie Tyndall, Executive Director of the Westport Regional Business League.

Construction Timeline

  • Spring 2025: Initial work begins at Dr. Jeremiah Cameron Park.

  • Summer 2025: Construction starts along Mill Street.

  • Spring 2026: Temporary pause during FIFA World Cup events.

  • Late 2026: Project completion expected.

  • Work will take place along Mill Street up to Southwest Trafficway, with additional improvements on Westport Road, 40th Street, Waddell Avenue, and within Dr. Jeremiah Cameron Park.

 For more information and to sign up for construction updates, visit: www.westportstormwater.org

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Media with questions may contact Jackson Overstreet, Public Information Officer for KC Water, at Jackson.Overstreet@kcmo.org. 

For construction-related inquiries, contact the project hotline at (816) 513-9450 or email water.westportstormwater@kcmo.org. 

 

About KC Water

KC Water maintains and operates water collection, treatment, and distribution systems; wastewater collection and treatment systems; and stormwater management systems for 170,000 residential and business customers in Kansas City and for 32 wholesale customers in the Kansas City region. KC Water ensures the accessibility and quality of water services to meet the growing needs of the Kansas City region by investing in the future of our water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.

Katie Hynes