Westport in need of added security as new businesses prepare to open
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Cash registers in the Westport neighborhood are ready to ring a little louder.
The Westport Regional Business League is preparing to open seven new businesses, most of which will be bars and nightspots. With the addition of the new businesses, there will be a need for added security.
Signs suggest the historic neighborhood is growing. The popular entertainment district plans to add seven new attractions, most of which are bars and night spots. Westport Landing is a prime example. It’s preparing to open in a repurposed building as an upscale lounge with an dressier feel.
“Each concept is so diverse,” Hannah Honeyman, a spokesperson for the Westport Business League, said on Friday.
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Honeyman said there will be something for everything in this group of new businesses, which will be included in Westport’s system of paying one cover charge for admission to all attractions. The Westport Business League hopes for 3,500 new customers per day from these new openings.
“We’re excited for this opportunity for Westport. It’s one of the most historic districts in Kansas City. It’s exciting to keep adding new things and keep growing as a district,” Honeyman told FOX4.
The growth also brings added concerns. Westport has been the site of shootings, like the one from May 26 when six people were shot at Westport Road and Broadway. Jahquan Robinson, 24, was killed. A spokesperson for the Westport Business League tells FOX4 it’s their policy not to comment on security.
Steven Irving, assistant manager at Beer Kitchen, hopes one of these businesses will zero in on LGBT customers. Westport security has contained crowds in recent years by blocking off streets and limiting access to the area, intending to reduce the potential for violence.
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“I would like to believe over the next few months, this summer, they’re going to continue to try different tactics and strategies to keep it safe,” Irving said
Leaders in Westport are also excited for the 250 new jobs this should deliver. All of these seven new businesses and attractions are expected to be open by Saint Patrick’s Day.
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