Another Idea For Kemper

Foutch Brothers’ plan reportedly includes adding a second floor to the arena to make room for 12 basketball courts, an indoor running track and fitness rooms.

But the city council is also expected to hear soon from the American Royal, which holds a long-term lease on the arena and would like to replace the Kemper with a smaller building for equestrian and agricultural events.

Royal officials have said it would cost $50 million to renovate the Kemper, while Foutch Brothers has projected the building could be rehabbed for $22 million.

The City Council is expected to vote on what will be done with the Kemper by the end of September.