“Governor Laura Kelly Joins Barn-Raising Event to Kick Off Construction of New American Royal Campus in Kansas City”
Yesterday, Governor Laura Kelly participated in a barn-raising event to signify the commencement of construction on the new American Royal campus in Kansas City, Kansas. This facility will encompass a sprawling one million square foot food and agriculture educational complex.
Governor Laura Kelly expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The agriculture industry is integral to our state, and this new American Royal campus is poised to become a national leader in education, events, and engagement. It will establish a unique food and agriculture innovation district, setting it apart on a global scale. Additionally, it will play a vital role in cultivating our workforce by instilling a sense of pride in Kansas’ rich agricultural heritage among young visitors, potentially inspiring them to pursue careers within our state.”
Established in 1899, the American Royal has been a longstanding tradition in Kansas City, with a mission to lead the nation in food and agriculture education, events, and engagement. Emphasizing the development of the nation’s central hub for food and agriculture, the American Royal’s new complex in Kansas City will expand its current 14-week programming to offer year-round events and activities.
During its initial 20 years of operation, the American Royal’s main complex is projected to generate an estimated annual economic impact of $526 million and create over 5,000 jobs. The facility is anticipated to host its inaugural event in late 2025 or early 2026.
Walt George, chair of the new building committee and secretary of the American Royal Board of Directors, emphasized the significance of the occasion, stating, “The American Royal is constructing a purpose-built complex designed to attract visitors year-round to Kansas and Wyandotte County for food and agriculture events. Today marks the beginning of this endeavor with the barn-raising event, symbolizing the commencement of this ambitious project.”
