The former Journal-World building, a large brick structure at Sixth and Massachusetts, has been vacant since 2014. A developer has stepped forward with a plan that has created great enthusiasm in the community. Patrick Watkins, of Watkins Law Office in Lawrence, and Erik Wullschleger of 3D Development out of Kansas City, Missouri, shared information on the proposal. The 70,000 square foot development will include a courtyard event space with a stage and big screen, up stairs there will be small office spaces for lease and also on site, Q39, a very popular KCMO barbecue restaurant. A patio space will be built in the loading dock area and the building will be opened up with windows facing the interior courtyard. 3D Development specializes in historic rehabilitation and repurposing existing structures. Their office is located in the Cross Roads Arts District where they have completed a number of big projects, including the old Kansas City Star Building. Press Yards, the project name, is a nod to the history of the building. Patrick Watkins indicated that the City has been good to work with and some tenants are expected to be in place by the first of the year.
