The Blue River Commerce Center’s projected dollar value easily makes it one of the year’s biggest real estate deals. But it also rises toward the top of any list of 2020 deals when viewed in terms of square footage, potential for attracting jobs or community impact.
In August, the Kansas City Council approved a plan that calls for 2.6 million square feet of buildings spread throughout seven structures. That puts it solidly among the largest industrial parks inside the Interstate 435 loop.
What sets the project apart is that it resurrects the former Bannister Federal Complex, which for decades was a leading employment center in south Kansas City. The project could support 1,500 new jobs — and is to include an on-site learning and career center.