Kansas City Launches Citywide Wayfinding
Kansas City has launched a Citywide Wayfinding initiative—a unified effort to make it easier for everyone to explore, navigate, and connect with all corners of our community.
Driven by collaboration across City departments, neighborhood groups, and partner organizations, this project aims to create a seamless, welcoming, and consistent experience for residents and visitors alike. As Kansas City prepares for the global stage of the 2026 World Cup, our focus remains on building a lasting system that benefits our city for years to come.
Why wayfinding?
Wayfinding goes beyond just signs and maps—it's about helping people answer fundamental questions: Where am I? Where do I want to go? What’s the best way to get there? Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a commuter, or a longtime resident, having clear, intuitive navigation tools makes our city more walkable, accessible, and enjoyable.
Our wayfinding system will be designed to:
- Support walkability and sustainability: Encouraging more walking, biking, and transit use reduces congestion and improves air quality.
- Boost tourism and local business: A friendly, easy-to-navigate city keeps visitors coming back and makes it easier to explore local businesses and cultural destinations.
- Deliver a unified experience: The initiative will bring together ongoing efforts—like those in the Streetcar corridor, West Bottoms, and Health Sciences District—under one thoughtful, citywide framework, so information is consistent no matter where you are.
- Connect existing networks: We’re not replacing local systems; we’re linking them, so neighborhoods and partner facilities can maintain their unique identities while making Kansas City feel like one unified place to explore.
What happens next?
- We’ve kicked off work with stakeholders from across the KC region and will continue refining the system with your feedback and ideas.
- We believe great wayfinding starts with community input. By sharing your perspective, you’re helping design a navigation system that meets the real needs of Kansas City’s residents and visitors. Together, we’re shaping how people experience and explore our city.
- Participate and get updates about our next steps. If you’d like to get involved or have questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
We’re proud to join leading cities like London, New York, and Toronto, who have set a global standard for urban navigation by working together. The work ahead will take all of us—but together, we’re making Kansas City more connected, more walkable, and more welcoming for everyone.
Thank you for being part of this journey!
Please reach out if you have questions. Emaill us at wayfinding@kcmo.org
Phases
18th & Vine District: Proposed sign locations
The City of Kansas City is inviting community feedback on proposed wayfinding locations in the 18th & Vine District to help visitors and residents navigate the district with ease.
What We’re Asking From You
Proposed Sign Locations
Review the map of proposed finger post and non-digital kiosk locations and tell us:
- Do these locations make sense?
- Are there places where signage would be more helpful?
- Are any locations unnecessary or confusing?
Your insights will help us refine the placement before installation.
Destinations & Landmarks to Display on the Signs
Each sign can point to multiple destinations with
- Text-based labels
- Directional arrows
- Optional symbols/icons
- Estimated walking times
We’re seeking your ideas on which destinations, landmarks, or cultural points should appear.
Criteria for Destination Selection
To ensure consistency and longevity, destinations included on the signs should be:
- Symbolic or representative of the 18th & Vine character
- Public-serving (cultural, civic, historic, or community-oriented)
- Likely to remain relevant for 5–10 years
- Within an appropriate walking radius
Examples may include: cultural institutions, historic sites, public amenities, district gateways, or long-standing community landmarks—not everyday or short‑term businesses.
About the Wayfinding Signs
Finger Posts
These small pedestrian signs will include:
- Arrows pointing to selected destinations
- Readable text labels
- Walking time estimates
- Optional icons for clarity
Vicinity Map Kiosk (non-digital)
The 18th & Vine kiosk may include:
- A large map showing nearby destinations
- A legend of key cultural or historic sites
- District orientation (You Are Here)
- Historic information or narrative panels
- Public transit, bike share & other transportation-related information (e.g., Parking)
The kiosk may also include space for future district updates or storytelling elements that reflect the area’s heritage.
Proposed Locations
For Phase 1 at 18th & Vine, we are using S1-A and S4)
S4 Directional Finger Post
