Rock Island Bridge

The Rock Island Bridge is a historic 1905 railroad bridge spanning the Kansas River, connecting Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas. Originally built to transport livestock for the city's stockyards, the 705-foot-long bridge is now being transformed into America's first entertainment district over a river. The project will feature two levels with restaurants, a coffee shop, a 300-person event space, public trails, and various entertainment venues.

After decades of disuse, the bridge—which remains in excellent structural condition—is set to open in spring 2025, offering 35,000 square feet of public space and promising to revitalize the underutilized riverfront area. The $16 million renovation preserves the bridge's industrial aesthetic while creating a vibrant community space that connects both sides of the Kansas River.