Excelsior Springs, MO–Buckle up; Excelsior Springs is on the cusp of a potential housing boom. With an abundance of developable land, the city is poised for a surge in new homes, outpacing neighboring communities’ growth. Melinda Mehaffy, Economic Development Director, hints at a transformation on the horizon, with “conversations going on right now about entire subdivisions being built” instead of scattered single-home construction that has been seen in the past.
Shantele Frie, City Planner, estimates a significant rise in housing units. By the end of 2025, the city could see a total of 100 new homes or housing units, reflecting a growth rate exceeding the Kansas City metro average. This rapid expansion promises to reshape Excelsior Springs, but city officials are committed to responsible development.
Preserving the community’s unique character is a top priority. “We don’t want to grow into being just another suburb of Kansas City,” emphasizes Mehaffy. Maintaining green spaces is a key focus to ensure balanced growth and a sense of place. The city envisions a future where new residents can experience the charm of Excelsior Springs alongside a thriving housing market.
Eight developments are currently in various stages of development: Stone Crossing and Marocco Estates, both on Kearney Road; the Vintage on Piedmont; Cherry Hills Subdivision on Leslie Lane; the West Springs Subdivision; Golf Hill Villas, Lynn Park; and the Flats at Coach Crossing. The developments encompass a wide range of housing options, from luxurious single-family homes to modest cottage houses, duplexes, and apartments.
Existing Homes Also Improving
Laura Mize, Neighborhood Specialist, explained that the city has a multifaceted approach to development and maintenance. According to Mize, The Community Development Department is vital in ensuring safe and well-maintained housing. It not only enforces current building codes through inspections of new constructions and rentals, but the department also enforces city nuisance and zoning codes, promoting visually appealing and secure neighborhoods. The department has offered tax abatement programs in designated areas to incentivize property improvement. These efforts enhance the city’s overall aesthetic and encourage investment in existing properties, contributing to a stronger housing stock.
The Community Development Department is also beginning to champion greater accessibility by promoting Universal Design. This forward-thinking approach encourages builders to incorporate features like wider doorways, ramps, and accessible bathrooms in new constructions and remodels. The department incentivizes this approach by offering rebated permit fees for projects that embrace Universal Design.
Additionally, recognizing the desire of many residents to age comfortably in their own homes, the department has partnered with nonprofits like Northland Neighborhoods, Inc. This collaboration allows them to offer financial assistance for minor home repairs, ensuring that residents of all ages and abilities can continue to live safely and independently in their Excelsior Springs homes.
The Road Ahead
If even a portion of these developments come to fruition, Excelsior Springs is on the cusp of a significant transformation. City leadership seems committed to managing this growth responsibly. With a focus on creating a community that offers a variety of housing options while fostering a safe and sustainable environment and retaining the unique character that makes Excelsior Springs special, the future looks quite welcoming.
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