Historic preservation fund to invest millions into this downtown Kansas City building

A fund for historic preservation plans to invest millions to remake a century-old office building in downtown Kansas City.

Revitalization Unlimited, a Houston-based investment fund focused on preserving historically-significant properties, announced plans this week to restore the seven-story Garment House, 1000 Broadway Blvd., in the Quality Hill area.

The building, built in 1905, falls within the Wholesale District on the National Register of Historic Places under the name Frankel, Frank & Company Building and features Chicago sash windows and gray brick.

Revitalization Unlimited said in a release that it’s committed $3.2 million to restoring the building, currently owned by 10 Broadway, LLC, with an eye toward renovations for a mix of future tenants, including restaurants, bars, catering services and entertainment venues. Developers plan an additional $3-4 million in renovations.

The building has been used for dining and entertainment businesses in recent years but appears to currently be vacant.

Dustin Webber, chief operating officer for Revitalization Unlimited, told The Star in an interview that the organization scours the country for historic properties that are ripe for redevelopment.

“We have a social goal to protect our history,” he said. “It’s a social obligation, even.”

Kansas City has a fantastic real estate market, he said, which made the Garment House an exciting opportunity.

Planning for the project is in its early stages. Developers hope to start looking at permits by April and start some construction over the summer. Further details are to be announced.

Webber said that the group is currently analyzing whether the building needs two elevator banks. Removing one of the elevator banks could add floor space for tenants.

Webber also said that the project will likely include adding housing to the upper floors.

The development team plans to coordinate with the city and other officials to seek out loans or grants that would help the project.