Kansas City Council approves billboard condemnation for Crossroads hotel plan
Kevin Collison
Kansas City Star
April 24, 2014
http://www.kansascity.com/2014/04/24...demnation.html
"Kansas City has approved condemning a towering billboard at 20th and Main streets, a big step needed for a developer to move forward with a planned $16 million hotel project in the Crossroads Arts District.
The proposed 110-room Hilton Home2 Suites would occupy the southeast corner of 20th and Main streets, but before it can proceed, a billboard owned by Lamar Advertising has to be removed. The pole sign also has been protected by a “perpetual” visual easement that says nothing can obstruct its view.
On Thursday, the Kansas City Council unanimously designated the sign as blighted, beginning the condemnation process.
“We’re very happy that the development seems to be moving forward and we’re committed to the project,” said Jason Swords with Sunflower Development Group. “It’s located on the streetcar route and would continue to redevelop that part of the Crossroads.”
Swords is working on the five-story Hilton Home2 Suites deal on behalf of Overland Park-based True North Hotel Group."