Proposed Gardner development would bring 15,000-seat concert pavilion, esports arena
A developer is betting a mix of live <a href="https://comicvibe.com/paranovus-entertainment-pavs-acquires-heyviva-athletic-wear-assets-for-33m/” title=”Paranovus Entertainment (PAVS) acquires Heyviva athletic wear assets for $33M”>entertainment, education and hospitality can transform Gardner into a regional destination.
Velocity Arts shared plans Wednesday for a 335-acre entertainment, arts, and education district anchored by a 15,000-seat indoor concert venue.
The proposal also includes an esports arena, a performing arts center, hotels, restaurants, convention space, retail, housing and public parks.
If completed, the project would rank among the Kansas City area’s largest mixed-use entertainment developments.
Velocity Arts said the district is intended to attract visitors for concerts, festivals, conferences and other events while encouraging longer stays through its mix of entertainment, recreation and hospitality offerings.
“We’re not simply building another entertainment venue,” Velocity Arts CEO Josh Shibler said. “We’re creating a district where people can attend a concert, take a class, spend a weekend, meet with colleagues, discover local businesses and return again for a completely different experience.”
The proposal also calls for a media-focused college where students would receive training in live entertainment, production and digital media while working alongside industry professionals.
The project team includes Populous as the lead designer, McCownGordon as the construction manager, and Kimley-Horn as the civil engineer.
Velocity Arts did not announce a projected cost, financing details or construction timeline.
