At the conclusion of a Tuesday press conference in Kansas City, where the Royals announced the promotions of Dayton Moore and J.J. Picollo, team CEO and chairman John Sherman revealed that the franchise, a fixture in the city since 1969, could be moving downtown by the end of the decade. Sherman acknowledged that “we need to start thinking about our plans for a stadium over the next five to 10 years.”
There have been increasing rumblings, although nothing concrete, about the Royals and the potential of a future downtown stadium. Currently, the team plays at Kauffman Stadium, built in 1973 along with GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the Chiefs next door to the Royals complex. The two stadiums make up the Truman Sports Complex in Jackson County. After being awarded an expansion franchise by the American League, the Royals began their life at Municipal Stadium in 1969. The Royals current lease at Kauffman Stadium runs until 2031.
In beginning the process of considering a new home for the Royals, Sherman set out several areas on his mind over the process, including a ballpark that creates “meaningful community impact, with economic growth and activity that benefits the region.” Sherman pointed out that the positive impact in the quality of life needs to include a focus on the underrepresented portions of Kansas City”.
