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Port KC announced it has voted to approve $480 million in bonds for the mixed-use development at 800 Grand. Photo credit: Hoefer Welker.
Posted July 29, 2025
Port KC has approved a resolution that will advance a development and preservation project for one of Kansas City’s historic skyscrapers.
On Monday, Port KC Commissioners voted to approve a resolution inducing the issuance of bonds and authorizing a memorandum of understanding with developer 800 Grand KCMO LLC. The project is in connection with the development of 800/818 Grand Blvd. KC’s historic Scarritt Building, located at 818 Grand, would be transformed into a 167-key hotel under the UMusic Hotels brand.
The issuance of up to $480 million in taxable revenue bonds for the newly renovated hotel would go toward 319 multi-family residences, 28,000 square feet of ground-level retail, and a 1,400-seat music and entertainment venue. The development is planned to be delivered in two phases over five years.
“The 800 Grand project represents a significant investment in Kansas City’s urban core, pairing historic preservation with bold new construction. Saving the Historic Scarritt Building is vital to the Grand corridor and our greater downtown,” President and CEO of Port KC, Jon Stephens, said in a Monday release. “This development aligns with Port KC’s mission to attract catalytic growth and sustainable economic vitality to our city.”
Port KC is working closely with the City of Kansas City to bring this historic building back to life, according to the release.
The project is being developed by California-based BR Companies. In November, BR first proposed its plans for a $250 million project to revitalize a “barren area of Downtown” that would create a $250 million 25-story building.
