Historic Ellison Hotel Reopens as Affordable Housing
Kansas City’s commitment to affordable living took a significant step forward with the recent reopening of the historic Ellison Hotel. Following a comprehensive $7 million renovation, this nearly century-old landmark in Midtown has been revitalized, offering modern, accessible homes to the community. This transformation not only preserves a piece of Kansas City’s past but actively builds towards a more equitable future.
A Midtown Landmark’s Modern Makeover
The Ellison Hotel, located prominently at the corner of Armour and Broadway Boulevard, has long been a part of Kansas City’s urban fabric. Originally constructed nearly 100 years ago, the property was first converted into affordable housing in 2004, leveraging Low Income Housing Tax Credits and Historic Tax Credits to ensure its continued purpose.
Details of the $7 Million Transformation
The recent $7 million renovation, which commenced in January 2025, breathed new life into the entire building. Now, the Ellison Hotel boasts 68 updated units, each featuring brand-new kitchens, modern bathrooms, and fresh paint throughout. These extensive improvements ensure a high quality of life for residents while maintaining the building’s historic charm. The project was made possible through the continued strategic use of state and federal tax credits, demonstrating a successful model for urban renewal.
Advancing Kansas City’s Affordable Housing Goals
The reopening of the Ellison Hotel is a direct alignment with Mayor Quinton Lucas’s ambitious plan to significantly expand affordable and accessible housing across Kansas City. The mayor has set a target of 10,000 new and restored affordable units citywide.
| Affordable Housing Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| Mayor Lucas’s Target | 10,000 new and restored units |
| Current Progress (Approx.) | 6,500 units |
| Ellison Hotel Contribution | 68 newly renovated units |
| Key Principles | Affordability, accessibility, transit-oriented development |
Mayor Lucas emphasized the broader vision behind such projects, stating, “When we do housing in Kansas City, what we are doing is building affordability, accessibility, transit-oriented development. It’s really urban planning in many ways at its best.” This integrated approach considers not just the dwelling but also its connection to public transit and wider community accessibility, fostering sustainable urban growth. With about 6,500 units already achieved towards the 10,000-unit goal, the Ellison Hotel renovation marks another crucial step in this ongoing mission.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ellison Hotel
- What is the Ellison Hotel primarily used for now?
It has been transformed into 68 units of affordable housing. - How much did the recent renovations cost?
The renovation project involved a $7 million investment. - When did the latest renovations start and finish?
The extensive renovations began in January 2025 and were recently completed with its official reopening. - What type of funding supported this project?
The renovation utilized Low Income Housing Tax Credits and Historic Tax Credits at both state and federal levels. - Where is the Ellison Hotel located in Kansas City?
It is situated at the corner of Armour and Broadway Boulevard in Midtown Kansas City, Mo.
The successful renovation and reopening of the Ellison Hotel serve as a powerful testament to Kansas City’s dedication to creating a more inclusive and vibrant urban environment, proving that historical preservation and modern affordability can beautifully coexist for the benefit of all residents.
Historic Ellison Hotel Reopens as Affordable Housing
