Foreclosure of Parade Park Homes in Kansas City

Kansas City’s historic Black-owned housing cooperative, Parade Park Homes, will no longer be the same after its successful foreclosure sale on Monday. This sale is linked to a $275 million redevelopment initiative aimed at preserving the community’s rich history.

Developers have outlined initial plans for the property, which include building 1,065 apartments, along with 60 units for sale. The development will feature amenities and communal areas such as community centers, parks, and playgrounds.

“It’s heartbreaking because this has been my home forever,” expressed Jan Oates. Oates, a lifelong resident of Parade Park Homes, shared that her parents settled in the neighborhood in 1963.

“It’s very sad that our neighborhood is ending like this, as we lived in full harmony.” Oates also mentioned that most residents are elderly or people in need of affordable housing. With the upcoming remodeling, she and her neighbors are concerned about being displaced.

“There are elderly people here on fixed incomes. Will they be able to afford between $1,000 and $2,000 in rent? Probably not. Even many of us who work daily might struggle with those rent increases,” she added.

The project is a joint effort involving Kansas City, Flaherty and Collins, and Twelfth Street Heritage, organizations that, according to the city, appreciate the importance of Parade Park Homes for Kansas City.

During a visit to the property, KCTV5 observed that many units had boarded-up windows and security doors installed by a security company. Oates mentioned that numerous units have been vacant for quite some time.

“I think there are more than 500 units, and now maybe only 160 of us remain, maybe even fewer,” Oates continued. She was assured that if she wanted to stay, she could, and she hopes the new owners will fulfill this promise.

Available foreclosures: :

Kansas City: over 500 Homes available.

By Elias DaSilva | September 19, 2024.