Several outlets in Kansas City have reported that Choice Hotels International is planning a six-story, 149-room hotel in downtown Kansas City. An official of the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City (EDCKC) confirmed to me that the company has not sought any economic development incentive from the EDCKC.
This is good news. If the company really is building the hotel on their own, without incentives or tax credits, it represents a real investment in Kansas City. Next time someone argues that without such taxpayer subsidies, “we may as well put up a sign that says Kansas City is once again closed for business,” be aware that they might just be shilling for wealthy developers.
