Downtown Merriam is at a pivotal moment – and you have a crucial role to play in shaping its future.
For decades, downtown Merriam has been home to small businesses, beloved community events, and long-standing traditions. But, with aging infrastructure, significant flood risks along Turkey Creek, and changing development needs, the City is working to strengthen the downtown area for the long term.
The City is actively partnering with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to explore major flood mitigation solutions, while also considering other potential strategies to protect downtown properties and open new redevelopment opportunities. At the same time, City leaders are gathering input from residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to guide future plans and investments in downtown Merriam.
Your voice matters! We encourage you to be part of the conversation as this important work continues.
Downtown’s future depends on you! Watch for survey invitations, project updates, and public meeting announcements by staying connected. You can always find the latest details right here on this page or by contacting the City by email or 913-322-5500.
What You Told Us
Resident Priorities for Downtown
In 2024, the City of Merriam conducted a statistically valid community survey to better understand residents’ priorities.
- 82% of residents agreed that downtown Merriam should move in a considerably different direction than today.
- More than a third (36%) listed downtown revitalization as a high priority for the City to focus on, even compared to other big community initiatives.
While opinions differ on exactly what should happen, it’s clear that residents want the City to take a fresh look at downtown Merriam and develop a long-term plan.
Look for a more detailed downtown Merriam-specific survey coming soon. Your voice will continue to be crucial as we make decisions about the future of downtown Merriam.
How We’re Moving Downtown Forward
Turkey Creek Flood Mitigation
In June 2022, the City approved a design agreement with the USACE to evaluate flood protection options for downtown Merriam and Upper Turkey Creek. In 2024, the USACE shared initial concepts, including flood walls up to 13 feet, levees, and potential property removal. The City has not yet made any final decisions and is waiting for more detailed designs and cost estimates.
The goal is to balance flood protection with opportunities for new investment in the downtown area. Resident and business owner input will be vital as the City moves forward.
Business Relocation
The City understands the importance of supporting downtown businesses. Whenever projects affect existing businesses, the City is committed to working directly with owners to help them stay in Merriam whenever possible, including assistance with relocation and keeping open lines of communication.
How We Got Here
Creating the Downtown District that exists today is the result of years of dedicated efforts by the City and its partners:
1989: Purchased the former Merriam School and invested roughly $1.2 million to create the Irene B. French Community Center.
2000-2001: Built Merriam Marketplace and Werner Park.
2002: Voters approved a 1/8-cent sales tax to support downtown projects.
2004: Downtown Merriam Revitalization Project, with street, safety, and beautification improvements, including a road diet and traffic calming.
2021: Launched the Historic Downtown Revitalization Grant, awarding up to $10,000 per business for upgrades (three completed so far, one pending).
2022: Completed the Downtown Merriam Corridor Plan through a Mid-America Regional Council grant to create a long-term vision for the area.
Ongoing Efforts
- Partnered on the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail
- Established downtown design guidelines
- Advanced code compliance programs
- Conducted regular Merriam Business Surveys
- Supported the Downtown Merriam Partnership for 25 years
- Invested in streetscapes (street trees, trash cans, and pedestrian improvements)
- Maintained consistent business outreach and economic development visits
- Supported historic preservation efforts
The City also hosts signature downtown events, including:
- Turkey Creek Car & Motorcycle Show (25 years)
- Merriam Drive Live (7 years)
- Halloween Happenings (25 years)
- The Turkey Creek Festival 5K (36 years)
- Flags 4 Freedom (16 years)
- Cruise Nights (25 years)
- Merriam Farmers’ Market (24 years, 22–25 thousand visitors annually)
In 2020, after the Parks and Recreation Department moved into the new Merriam Community Center on Slater St., the City engaged residents in planning for the future of 5701 Merriam Drive (formerly the Irene B. French Community Center).
Ultimately, the City preserved elements of the old community center building, seeded the site as green space, and continues to seek community input for the long-term vision of this important property.
Merriam Drive Corridor Improvements
As part of the City’s Comprehensive Plan 2040, City leaders are working on two Planning Sustainable Places grants with the Mid-America Regional Council to improve the Merriam Drive Corridor. These projects are currently on hold until the USACE provides more information about these areas.
Johnson Drive to 55th St.
- New street plans to improve vehicle, bike, and pedestrian travel
- Green infrastructure to enhance sustainability
- Updated crosswalks and lighting
- New downtown gateway monument
55th St. to City Limits (with Overland Park)
- Regional connection improvements for transportation and street design
- Community engagement along the corridor
- Coordinated investments to strengthen Merriam, Rosedale, Overland Park, and Mission.
Connected Corridor Plan(PDF, 45MB)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the City focusing on downtown Merriam right now?
Downtown is a vital part of Merriam’s identity, but it faces major challenges, including flood risks and aging infrastructure. Now is the right time to plan for its future and make sure it serves residents and businesses for decades to come.
What is the status of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers flood study?
USACE is still developing potential flood mitigation solutions for the downtown area and Upper Turkey Creek. City leaders haven’t picked a final design, and the City is waiting for cost estimates before moving forward.
Will downtown Merriam be redeveloped?
It’s possible. The City is exploring ways to combine flood mitigation with new investment opportunities to revitalize downtown Merriam, but no decisions have been made yet.
How can residents and business owners provide input for projects?
The City will soon launch a statistically valid survey to hear from residents, along with public meetings and opportunities to share feedback. Stay tuned for updates on how to participate.
How is the City supporting downtown businesses during this process?
City staff continue to work closely with downtown businesses by attending Downtown Merriam Partnership meetings, regularly visiting businesses, and keeping them informed about projects. If businesses need to relocate, the City aims to help them stay in Merriam.