A new stadium is coming to Kansas City’s riverfront, soon to be home to the Kansas City’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team. Owners Angie Long, Chris Long and Brittany Matthews announced plans today to construct the first soccer stadium purpose-built for an NWSL team.

“From the beginning, our vision has been to create a player-first experience, and facilities for our team that match not only the elite level of these incredible athletes, but also the passionate support of the Kansas City metro and our fans,” said KC NWSL Co-Founder and Co-Owner Chris Long. “We believe this significant investment and commitment will shape a stronger future for our entire region and our athletes.”

The announcement comes just over 10 months since the group was awarded a franchise and is the latest in a series of major investments for the team.

With final designs still in development, the estimated $70-million project will be entirely privately financed through the ownership group, with the team signing a 50-year lease for Parcel 8, the 7.08-acre site on the east end of the Berkley Riverfront in Kansas City, Mo.

“As a sports fan and a father, I am so proud that Kansas City will make history in having a world-class facility dedicated to women in sport and that the project will be a centerpiece of our beautiful riverfront redevelopment,” Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said.

Primary design and construction partners include Kansas City-based Generator Studio, JE Dunn and Monarch Build. 

“The goals for reclaiming our long-neglected riverfront have been bold but clear – develop a connected, accessible, vibrant and diverse neighborhood,” said Port KC President and CEO Jon Stephens. “Anchoring a dynamic facility such as this on the downtown riverfront, and connecting it to the heart of our city with the KC Streetcar, trails and greenspace not only solidifies our commitment, but also proves that there is no better place for our community and the world to gather.” 

Today’s announcement follows previously released plans for a privately-funded $15 million training facility in Riverside, Mo., and plans to play home matches during the 2022 season at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan.

“World-class facilities have proven to be a catalyst in transforming all professional sports,” said KC NWSL Co-Founder and Co-Owner Angie Long. “Tremendous momentum exists in women’s sports specifically, and we are so proud to play a major role in ensuring the sport and also our region benefit from the economics and growth offered by a stadium of this magnitude.”

On December 7, the NWSL announced the decision to award an expansion franchise to Kansas City, with the draft scheduled just 37 days later.

Kansas City NWSL is nearing the end of its Inaugural Season of play and will be in action for its final match at Legends Field on Saturday, Oct. 30. The team has three wins under their belt and are ranked 10th.