Chiefs president in talks with Kansas, Missouri about stadium plans

Field Level Media|published: Fri 19th July, 13:32 2024

A general overall aerial view of Kauffman Stadium (foreground) and Arrowhead Stadium at the Truman Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Chiefs president Mark Donovan kept the door open to moving the team over the border to Kansas if a new stadium in Missouri continues to meet resistance.

"Every option is on the table," Donovan said of the Chiefs' approach to planning for a new stadium.

The Chiefs are committed to home games at Arrowhead Stadium through the 2030 season and have an agreement with Jackson County (Mo.) into 2031.

Donovan said the proposal from the state of Kansas using STAR bonds to finance a new stadium is "a really good option," and wants to determine a direction for the franchise by the end of the season.

"What makes the most sense for our fans? What makes the most sense for our franchise and this organization? What makes the most sense and can have the biggest impact on this region? I think the positive is we do have options and we'll consider those," Donovan said Friday at a press conference marking the start of training game.

"This is a generational decision. This is going to impact the future of this franchise for generations. We got to get it right."

Donovan said one year ago at the start of training camp that he envisioned "three realistic options" for a new stadium. In February, Donovan and Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt revealed a design plan dubbed "Arrowhead Reimagined," and $800 million renovation and upgrade mission.

Jackson County rejected an April ballot proposal that would've partially funded a new stadium for the Royals in downtown Kansas City and provided funds for the Arrowhead renovation. At present, the Royals' home park -- Kauffman Stadium -- and Arrowhead Stadium sit side-by-side separated by a parking lot.

If another measure heads to the ballot this year or next, Donovan wants to have assurances from the state and county about contributions and commitments to keep the franchise.

"We have committed that if we go to a public vote, we'll do it in a way which is much more binding before we get to development," Donovan said. "We'll have a lot facts, a lot of the details determined before we go. I think it's important to acknowledge that because we'd have to have agreements on the state side, as well as on the county side."

--Field Level Media

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