The vision for the Blue River Parkway dates back nearly a century, beginning with an ambitious plan to preserve scenic land and create recreational opportunities for Jackson County residents.
1932 | The Vision Begins
The Blue River Parkway was first envisioned in Results of County Planning, Jackson County, Missouri, published in 1932 at the direction of the Jackson County Circuit Court.
Then-Presiding Judge Harry S. Truman envisioned a system of improved roads, parks, and lakes that would place outdoor recreation within just a few minutes by car of every Jackson County resident.
Recognized for its scenic qualities, land along the Blue River was proposed for park development beginning at the southwest corner of the county and extending approximately 10 miles north to Swope Park. While the road system was constructed, the proposed park system did not materialize at that time.
1953 | A New Plan Takes Shape
In 1953, Hare & Hare, a prominent Kansas City landscape architecture and park planning firm, developed A System of Parks and Scenic Parkways. The plan proposed a park system along the Blue River and expanded upon the concepts outlined in the original 1932 plan.
1964 - 1971 | The Parkway Becomes A Reality
Hare & Hare updated the Blue River Parkway plan for Jackson County in 1964, and property acquisition began in 1966.
A $2.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provided matching funds to acquire property between Swope Park and Blue Ridge Boulevard. Protecting green space for future generations was an important part of the funding effort.
In 1967, Jackson County voters approved Proposition No. 4, establishing a Park Bond Construction Fund to support the acquisition and development of parkland.
Another $1.1 million HUD grant was awarded in 1971, helping the County acquire additional property from Blue Ridge Boulevard south to Kenneth Road.
1978 | Recreation Expands
A Land and Water Conservation Fund grant helped support the development of football, soccer, and softball fields, along with picnic areas throughout the park.
1991 –Today
In 1991, the Prairie Gateway Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects proposed the MetroGreen plan, envisioning a connected system of trails and bikeways throughout the Kansas City region, including trails along the Blue River.
Trail development began in the late 1990s and has continued to grow.
Today, the Blue River Parkway features more than twenty-five miles of mountain bike and equestrian trails, and four miles of walking trails complementing its sports fields, picnic areas, natural spaces, and other recreational amenities.
Through partnerships with the City of Kansas City, Urban Trail Co., and other community organizations, these trails continue to be developed and maintained, helping preserve the Parkway while providing opportunities for recreation and outdoor enjoyment for Jackson County residents.