Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base commemoration plans begin for 70th anniversary
Port KC leads project to remember 49 Crossing’s military past
Kansas City, Mo. (November 11, 2020) – This Veterans Day, Port KC is initiating planning for the 70th anniversary of the opening of the Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base (RGAFB). Now the 49 Crossing industrial hub, Port KC beginning the process of commemorating the land’s military history and its impact on south Kansas City.
In 1952, the United States Air Force acquired the land near the intersection of Interstate-49 and Highway 150. It would become known as the Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base. At its height, the base employed 5000 people and the surrounding population more than doubled.
Today, the land is home to the I-49 Industrial Center, Kansas City Southern, the NNSA, and many small industrial businesses at Port KC’s Richards-Gebaur Commerce Park. Together, they are named 49 Crossing. These businesses serve a strong south Kansas City workforce and community, a population that was at one time supported by RGAFB.
Port KC will update and engage with the community and veterans on the project.
For more information on the history of 49 Crossing and the Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base, please visit this link or contact Mariah Shields.
###
Port KC’s mission is to grow the economy of Kansas City through transportation, logistics and revitalization.
For More Information, Contact:
Mariah Shields
Communications Manager
Port KC
816-559-3723