KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – Kansas City will host another major football event in the near future. In late April, the city will host the NFL Draft out of Union Station.
“We are in high-speed planning mode for the draft,” said Kathy Nelson, chair of the KC Sports Commission. “We actually had some people from the NFL and their event team in Kansas City at the parade so they could see it. Most of the planning is done or nearly done. Now, it’s a matter of tweaking and those final details.
The KC Sports Commission told KCTV Kansas Citians that citizens can expect to see prep work begin at Union Station four weeks ahead of the draft. The project is from April 27 to 29, so construction is expected to start around April 1.
“I think we’re putting our city in a global spotlight, unlike anything we’ve ever seen [is what excites me the most],” Nelson said. “The world opens up for us when we host the NFL Draft. I think people seeing the heart of Kansas City come to life is what I’m most excited about.
“I’m looking at the extent of things that are happening in Kansas City now, sportingly, with the women’s soccer stadium under construction, the project coming up here,” Chiefs fan Herman Lee said. “I think they’ll start paying attention to Kansas City soon.”
The Sports Commission wants to improve the experience for fans entering and exiting the draft site at Union Station. Nelson says the commission will look to improve shuttle services for fans.
“I think we’ll see how we can better accommodate those park and ride venues,” Nelson said. “I think they worked. Can they work better? Probably.”
“I think this has been a great practice run, to have the parade here so close to when they have the draft,” said Chiefs fan Sharon Kuebelbeck. “[It’s] also the same place they’re setting up to do the draft, it’s going to be across from Union Station, so I think they’ve done a good job.
The NFL Draft will be held April 27-29 at Union Station. If you’re interested in attending the event, it’s free to the public. You can find more information on the NFL Draft in Kansas City here.
