All posts by Annamarie Weddle

Meyer Blvd to 68th

In the 1950’s this area was a primarily (99%) white neighborhood. The median house value was high. No rental information was available because it didn’t apply, and Prospect was zoned and utilized as a vibrant commercial street.  In the following decades the population of black individuals rose steadily, ultimately making the area a primarily black and minority population. Shortly after this population shift, the implementation of 71 highway devastated the east side of Prospect. Homes were demolished in large numbers and the remaining homes lost their property value.  Low property value encourages people  to use once owner occupied homes as rental properties or to simply vacate. Information from 2010 explains that this area is currently in a state of disinvestment.  A higher percentage of rental properties exist; yet, the median rent is $200 under the metropolitan area median. The census tracts associated with these blocks also have a higher vacancy percentage that the KC Metro area.

Meyer Boulevard to 68th Street

Being quite far south compared to the Kansas City Proper, these blocks lack information about development in 1895 and 1909. Sanborn maps show the intention to develop this area in 1917, and by 1925 Prospect has been zoned commercial (where is remains today) and residences are popping up in the surroundings. These blocks continue to expand and develop over the next few decades. When the automobile transitions to primary transportation, this area of Prospect accommodates by widening the road. Growth spirals downward with the implementation of 71 Highway. Throughout the 1990’s homes are demolished and replaced with the highway. Since, there has been a continuous loss of population and density, leaving these blocks as primarily vacant land, automotive shops, and fast food restaurants.  A figure ground study is drawn below to depict the low density. That isn’t to imply the area isn’t charming. Quaint commercial architecture still stands off Prospect. The Meyer boulevard transforms into a well designed bridge that carries cars, pedestrians, and cyclists safely above the highway. The Research College of Nursing provides an opportunity for steady pedestrian traffic.figure-ground