HOW CAN WE INCREASE ACCESS TO HOME OWNERSHIP WHILE MITIGATING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS?

2023-2024 | KCK HOUSING REVITALIZATION

Preface

In the 2023-24 academic year, the Kansas City Design Center Urban Design Studio produced a vision study for Bethany Park, addressing the need for affordable housing in Kansas City, Kansas. The proposal integrates medium-density, mixed-income housing with green spaces and amenities, scaling the site to a neighborhood-friendly level. A key feature is the enhancement of the existing La Placita Market, reinforcing local community ties.

Recognizing the link between workforce education and urban revitalization, the studio also proposed a Community Trade School and Prefab Incubator to boost local employment. Supported by K-State 105 funding, they built a prefab structure as a demonstration for future development. This project exemplifies how infill development can strengthen historic neighborhoods and revitalize the Central Avenue Corridor.

UPCOMING PROJECT EVENTS:
The KCDC studio has completed this portion of the KCK Housing Revitalization project and will return to KCDC next semester to expand on the work.

Disclaimer: The KCDC functions as an academic visioning agency only, and does not implement or build the proposed designs from its academic projects. The research, study, and plans developed by the studio may be used by the City of KCK, or other applicable organizations to conduct their own development and implementation separate from the KCDC’s project. It is our hope that the studio’s visioning process acts as a conduit for the communities voice to be heard through the design proposal presented.