Kemper / Hy-Vee Arena

The long view

It’s always gratifying to see a project from its inception to its final completion. This one started with a phone call, and ultimately transformed the fate of a civic symbol and the West Bottoms District.

Wideawake films documented the former Kemper Arena’s journey from vacant, to the vibrant Hy-Vee Arena. Interviews with key players highlight the challenges and significance of this landmark project, not only for Kansas City, but also for communities nationwide searching for a viable use for similar arenas.