Joe Jarosz
Northeast News
Aug. 4, 2015

KANSAS CITY, Missouri — Some of the best restaurants and shops in the Kansas City area can be found in the Northeast. More specifically, down The Avenue.

As part of the Kansas City Library’s Immigrant Heritage Series, the Central Library, 14 W. 10th St., will host the president and CEO of the Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce for  a discussion beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12. Baker-Hughes will discuss efforts to capitalize on the array of cultural offerings and rebranding Independence Avenue as KC’s International Marketplace.

According to a press release from the Kansas City Library, city officials have viewed The Avenue as a potential commercial destination for years. A 2008 market study, prepared by the Kansas City chapter of Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) in collaboration with Westside Housing Organization and Northeast Chamber of Commerce, suggested folding new and existing retail and service businesses into a unique shopping and dining district.

“We would like for the entire region to know that the Northeast, and specifically Independence Avenue, is home to some great hidden gems,” Baker said.

A 6 p.m. reception featuring samples from local restaurants precedes her presentation. Admission is free. The library asks you RSVP at kclibrary.org or call 816.701.3407. Free parking is available in the Library District parking garage at 10th and Baltimore.