More expansion of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) was announced in Kansas City this week, on the heels of last month’s news of a athletic training facility set to go up in Riverside.
Kansas City NWSL owners Angie Long, Chris Long and Brittany Matthews announced plans Tuesday, Oct. 26 to construct the first soccer stadium purpose-built for a National Women’s Soccer League team.
The announcement came 10 months since the group was awarded a franchise and is the latest in a series of major investments for the 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.”
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 of a 7.08-acre site on the east end of the Berkley Riverfront in Kansas City. Primary design and construction partners include Kansas City-based Generator Studio, JE Dunn and Monarch Build.
The announcement follows previously released plans for a privately-funded $15 million training facility in Riverside and plans to play home matches during the 2022 season at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan.