For immediate release: March 31, 2025

Kansas City invites residents to take part in the Reconnecting the Westside Community Summit on Saturday, April 5, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Boulevard Brewery, 2501 Southwest Boulevard.

Reconnecting the Westside is a City-led initiative to restore neighborhood connections disrupted by the construction of I-35 and I-670. Backed by a $1 million Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods grant, the project focuses on solutions that promote safety, accessibility, and long-term community well-being.

This effort is about more than rebuilding streets - it's about healing divisions, honoring the neighborhood's past, and building a future shaped by the people who live there.

The summit kicks off the first phase of the Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) study, which will gather public input on challenges and opportunities throughout the corridor. Attendees will hear from City officials, planners, and engineers, and have the opportunity to ask questions, offer feedback, and share ideas. Community insight will guide the direction of the study and ensure it reflects the lived experiences of Westside residents and corridor users. 

"Ensuring the voices of Westside residents are heard is critical to this process," said Councilmember Crispin Rea, 4th District-at-large. "The highway construction of past decades had a lasting impact on this community, and now is the time to take steps toward repairing those divisions. This summit will help guide the study and ensure that the needs of the neighborhood are at the forefront."

"This study is a key step in understanding how we can reconnect the Westside in a way that prioritizes safety, accessibility, and quality of life for residents. Public input is essential in shaping the vision for the future, and I encourage all community members to attend and share their perspectives," said Councilmember Eric Bunch, 4th District.

Stay Connected

For updates, event details, and opportunities to share feedback, visit reconnectwestside.com or email Contact@ReconnectWestside.com

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