A big announcement in the Crossroads District yesterday will mean a boost for commerce.

The purchase of a city block across the street from the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, as the new home for the UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance, is expected to raise the bar, but not just in the creative arena.

With some 650 students and 120 faculty members, business will follow. Sean O’Byrne of the Downtown Council, expects the building trades will get first bite of the apple. Read more.