The Chiefs have set a deadline of six months from now to make a decision about the future of Arrowhead Stadium. They must choose between renovating their current home or constructing a new stadium in either Kansas or Missouri.
Earlier this year, voters in Jackson County, Missouri, rejected a joint ballot initiative with the Royals to extend a sales tax to fund facilities. As a result, the teams are now pursuing separate plans and awaiting proposals from leaders in both states within the Kansas City metro area.
Recently, Kansas legislators approved a plan that would cover up to 70% of the costs for new stadiums for professional sports teams, aiming to attract the Chiefs across state lines. Missouri Governor Mike Parson responded by stating his intention to formulate a support plan by the end of the year to retain the teams on the Missouri side of the metro.
“This decision will have long-term implications for the franchise,” said Chiefs president Mark Donovan on Friday, as veterans reported to training camp at Missouri Western in St. Joseph, Missouri.
“We need to make the right choice,” Donovan emphasized. “We will conduct thorough research and take our time to ensure it’s done correctly. However, there is a sense of urgency. We have a limited timeframe to make the best decision.”
The Chiefs and Royals have played at the Truman Sports Complex for over fifty years under a lease agreement funded by a sales tax for maintenance.
Despite Arrowhead Stadium and Kauffman Stadium being beloved by fans, both are showing signs of aging, and it’s uncertain how much longer they can last even with renovations.
Royals owner John Sherman announced that his team won’t continue at Kauffman Stadium after the 2030 season, preferring to build a new downtown ballpark instead.
Initially aiming to renovate Arrowhead, the Chiefs are now considering the possibility of building a new stadium.
Chiefs owner Clark Hunt has long desired to host a Super Bowl, which would be more feasible with a new stadium. A retractable roof could also attract lucrative events like the Final Four and college football playoffs.
One challenge facing Missouri is its unpredictable political landscape. With Governor Parson ineligible for re-election due to term limits, the Chiefs must wait until later this year to know their future partners.
“Our deadline is really about being ready by January 2031,” said Donovan. “Renovating an existing structure requires less lead time, whereas building new extends the timeline by a year and a half. We’re aiming to finalize plans within the next six months to stay on track.”
Donovan also highlighted another critical factor: location. If they opt for a new stadium, the Chiefs need ample space for 20,000 parking spots to preserve their renowned tailgating tradition. They must also decide whether to relocate or rebuild their current training facility near Arrowhead Stadium, which is also showing its age.
