World Cup parking alternative offers fans cheaper option near stadium

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - As thousands of fans prepare to descend on Kansas City for World Cup matches, one organization is offering an alternative to official stadium parking.

The Center for Developmentally Disabled, located steps from the stadium now known as Kansas City Stadium, is opening its lot for $60 per match. Official parking inside the gates ranges from $125 to $225.

The lot offers around 300 paved, lit and monitored spaces. All proceeds go directly to the center’s programs supporting more than 150 people with developmental disabilities.

“If you’re going to spend money to park, why not find a company like us where your money is going towards a good cause,” said Jacob Goodrich, facility manager for the Center for Developmentally Disabled.

Partnership brings tailgate experience

The center has partnered with Red Machine Party Bus to offer shuttle services from downtown and host tailgate parties for up to 100 participants.

Mark Coronado, co-owner of Red Machine Party Bus, said the location is ideal for showcasing Kansas City’s tailgating culture.

“Kansas City is known for tailgating. What better way to make Kansas City shine than to have a great tailgate party?” Coronado said. “You look at the countries that are coming in, you look at their parades, Kansas City has to shine.”

The lot is located near Gate 1, the only pedestrian entrance to the stadium during World Cup matches, making it less than a quarter mile from the venue.

How to reserve parking

Fans can reserve parking through a QR code on the Center for Developmentally Disabled’s Facebook page. The center has posted pricing for the first four games at $60 each. Pricing for the final two matches in July has not been announced.

Goodrich said the center has already sold about 40 spots since opening reservations a week ago, leaving approximately 200 spaces available for the first game.

“We just suggest everybody watch the news with the road closures and leave early,” Goodrich said.

The center normally charges $20 for parking during other events but adjusted pricing for the World Cup due to high demand. The lot will be monitored until two hours after each match ends.