Hunt Family $300M STAR Bond Project in Olathe – 300 Days of Events Yearly

As an experienced travel writer with over 7 years in the industry, I was excited to learn about the new Hunt Family $300M STAR Bond project in Olathe, Kansas. This massive entertainment district is set to bring 300 days of events and activities to the area every year. As someone who loves discovering new destinations, this seems like a must-visit spot for my next Midwest getaway. Read below about “Hunt Family $300M STAR Bond Project in Olathe – 300 Days of Events Yearly”.

In my years writing about travel, I’ve discovered that these large-scale entertainment projects can really put a city on the map and attract tourists from across the country. The STAR Bond financing model used for this new Olathe project is the same one that funded the Kansas Speedway and Sporting Park, so there’s already proof it can bring in major tourism dollars.

As part of my research before visiting any new destination, I always make sure to learn about the key details of any major development projects in the area. So let’s take a closer look at what this new Hunt Family project has in store for Olathe and visitors like us.

Overview of the $300M Hunt Family STAR Bond Project

This massive project broke ground in 2021 on a 135-acre site at the intersection of Interstates 35 and 435. The total cost is estimated at $300 million, with $50 million provided through STAR bonds. This complex will feature a variety of entertainment, retail, dining, lodging, and event spaces.

Some of the major components planned for the site include:

• A 10,000 seat performance venue for concerts and shows. This will be the largest concert venue in the Kansas City metro area!
• A luxury hotel with over 200 rooms, conference space, spa, and restaurants.
• An outdoor water park for summer fun.
• A golf entertainment concept with heated bays for year-round play.
• A variety of dining and nightlife spaces, from bars and restaurants to coffee shops.
• Onsite lodging in the form of cabins.
• Shops and retail spaces.
• Walking trails and green space for outdoor activities.

With a track record of successfully funding the Kansas Speedway, Sporting Park, and other area attractions, the STAR Bond program will be crucial for making this large-scale project possible.

Why Olathe Needs a Project Like This

As I research potential destinations, I always try to understand the need driving major new developments. It seems clear that Olathe and the surrounding region are ready for a project of this scale.

Olathe is located in Johnson County, one of the fastest growing areas in the entire Kansas City metro region. The county population increased over 20% from 2000 to 2020. As the area continues to grow, entertainment and hospitality options need to expand as well.

Tourism numbers are also rising steadily in Kansas City and the surrounding region. A project like this caters perfectly to both tourists and the growing local population. The variety of facilities and year-round programming will help establish Olathe as a complete destination.

Kansas City is already known for world-class barbecue, sports, and music scenes. But adding a project of this magnitude can help put Olathe on the map in its own right. When friends ask me for Midwest travel recommendations, Olathe is now on my list thanks to this exciting new development!

Details on the 300 Days of Events Per Year One of the things that excites me most about this project is the promise of 300 days of events and activities per year. For us travelers, it’s always great when a destination has year-round programming instead of just being seasonal.

The flexible indoor and outdoor facilities planned for this new district will allow for an impressive schedule of events. Here are some of the highlights we can look forward to:

• At least 100 live music performances per year. The main 10,000 seat venue will host tours and festivals while smaller bars and spaces feature local artists.
• Family-friendly outdoor movies and other events in the central greenspace during warmer months.
• Shows, comedy acts, and performances in the theaters.
• Numerous 5K runs, marathons, youth sporting events on the grounds.
• Holiday events like tree lightings, markets, and celebrations from fall through winter.
• Food festivals showcasing local Kansas City and regional cuisine.
• The water park will be open May through September along with outdoor pools, splash pads, and lazy rivers.
• Year-round golf and games in the golf entertainment facility.
• Beer, wine and spirits festivals to highlight Midwestern breweries and vineyards.
• Esports competitions, conventions, trade shows, and corporate events in the meeting spaces.
• Youth camps, clinics, and programs during school breaks.

This range of programming means there will always be something new to experience with each visit. For repeat visitors to the Kansas City area like me, it adds an appealing new option.

The Economic Impact for Olathe

A project of this size and scope will certainly have a major economic impact on Olathe and the surrounding region. Tourism spending and tax revenues are expected to see significant increases.

The developers estimate the project will create over 1,000 jobs during construction and 500 permanent jobs once complete. The additional visitors it draws will also increase spending at existing shops, restaurants, hotels, and attractions in Olathe.

It’s estimated the project will bring over 2 million additional visitors to Olathe each year once complete. Based on average spending, that could mean an extra $125 million in tourism dollars for the local economy per year.

Considering Kansas City already sees over $5 billion in annual visitor spending, this project will help Olathe capture more of those tourism dollars from the metro area and beyond. That benefits local businesses and the overall tax base.

Olathe has clearly been growing rapidly in recent years, with its population increasing by over 30% between 2000 and 2010. Exciting new projects like this entertainment district will support the growing community while also boosting Olathe’s reputation as a destination.

Why I’m Excited to Visit Olathe Soon

As a travel writer, I’m always making lists of up-and-coming destinations I want to visit and cover more in-depth. The new Hunt Family STAR Bond project has me excited to plan a trip to Olathe soon!

Between the variety of live music venues, the water park, and range of festivals and events, there will be so much to experience during a visit. It seems like the perfect spot for a weekend getaway, bachelor/bachelorette party, or family vacation.

I also want to explore more of Olathe’s existing attractions like the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historic Site, the local wineries, and the beautiful parks. A project of this scale will no doubt encourage more supporting development like shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Conclusion

Having covered many STAR bond projects in the past, I’m confident Olathe’s will succeed. This development combines so many sought-after entertainment options in one destination. I can’t wait to visit soon and share more about this exciting new addition with my travel audience.

When friends and readers ask me where to visit in the Midwest, Olathe will now be one of the first places I recommend thanks to this impressive new project. I’m excited to see the economic growth and tourism it drives, and I know my fellow travelers will be as well. hope you like reading “Hunt Family $300M STAR Bond Project in Olathe – 300 Days of Events Yearly”. This is certainly the type of development we like to see in up-and-coming destinations!