The Northland—made up of Platte and Clay counties north of the Missouri River—is one of the fastest-growing regions in the Midwest. With available land, strong infrastructure, and major logistics access points, it’s no wonder commercial and industrial developers are turning their eyes to this part of the Kansas City metro.
If you’re planning to build in the Northland, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your investment.
Why the Northland?
The Northland has become a hotbed for commercial growth. Here’s why developers are paying attention:
- Land Availability: Compared to landlocked areas south of the river, the Northland offers large tracts of developable land at competitive prices.
- Workforce Access: With thousands of homes being built each year in Parkville, Kearney, Liberty, and Gladstone, the Northland is rapidly becoming a residential and labor hub.
- Strategic Location: Situated near I-29, I-35, and KCI Airport, it’s an ideal spot for logistics, manufacturing, and warehouse operations.
- Pro-Growth Attitudes: Many Northland municipalities welcome commercial projects with business-friendly permitting, incentives, and fast-track zoning.
Top Cities and Sites for Development in North KC
If you’re evaluating locations within the Northland, these areas are top contenders for commercial and industrial projects:
1. Liberty
Liberty has seen strong population and business growth. Liberty Commerce Center, for example, is drawing major logistics and e-commerce brands. The city supports light industrial and office projects with ready-to-go infrastructure and incentives.
2. KCI Corridor / Zona Rosa
Close to Kansas City International Airport, this area is a magnet for warehousing, cold storage, and light manufacturing. With the KCI 29 Logistics Park gaining traction, now is the time to secure a spot nearby.
3. Gladstone and North Kansas City
Known for infill potential and urban-style redevelopment, these cities are ideal for medical, office, and flex-industrial spaces. Proximity to downtown KC adds value.
4. Parkville and Platte City
These western Northland communities offer space for industrial parks and corporate campuses with a more suburban feel—ideal for companies prioritizing employee quality of life.
Infrastructure and Utility Planning
One of the Northland’s biggest advantages is modern infrastructure. But there are still things to look out for:
- Stormwater and Drainage: The Northland’s rolling terrain requires thoughtful grading and drainage plans. MAR can help design systems that meet both city and federal codes.
- Utility Coordination: Some outlying sites may need upgraded water, electric, or gas service. Early coordination with KCPL, Spire, and local municipalities is key to staying on schedule.
- Access Roads: Some parcels—especially in Platte County—require road upgrades or new access points. Plan for traffic studies and potential road-sharing agreements.
Zoning and Permitting: Be Ready for Local Variations
Each city in the Northland has its own zoning map, building codes, and permitting timeline. Here’s a rough breakdown:
| Municipality | Zoning Type (Common) | Permit Review Time | Notes |
| Liberty | M-1, M-2 | 3–6 weeks | Fast-track programs available |
| Parkville | BP, I-1 | 4–8 weeks | More design review required |
| Platte County | AG to I | Varies | Rezoning may be needed |
| Kansas City, MO (Northland) | B3, M2-3 | 8–12 weeks | Follows KC metro codebook |
| Gladstone/North KC | MX, BP | 4–6 weeks | Ideal for smaller projects |
Zoning designations in the Northland generally support industrial and commercial uses—but don’t assume. Work with a contractor who knows how to navigate local boards and planning commissions.
Incentives Available for North Kansas City Projects
While not every site qualifies, many Northland municipalities offer real economic benefits for the right kind of project:
- Property Tax Abatement (Chapter 100 / 353): Available in cities like Liberty, KCMO, and Parkville for job-creating developments.
- Sales Tax Exemptions: For qualifying construction materials and machinery.
- TIF (Tax Increment Financing): Useful in areas needing infrastructure investment.
- Workforce Development Grants: Platte County and the State of Missouri offer programs to help train new employees.
Tip: Have your GC or development consultant identify incentive opportunities early in the design process. These can influence site selection, timing, and design choices.
Metal Buildings for KC’s Northland
We may be a little biased, but the Northland’s climate, terrain, and utility mix make it a strong fit for pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs). Here’s why:
Durable and Weather-Resistant
Systems like the Butler MR-24 Roof are designed to withstand Kansas City’s extreme temperature swings, hail, and wind.
Easy to Expand
Industrial flex space is in high demand. Metal buildings are easy to expand later — ideal for fast-growing companies.
Energy Efficiency
Insulated wall and roof systems, like Butler’s Thermawall and CMR-24, help reduce long-term operating costs — especially important in large spaces with heating and cooling demands.
Speed to Market
With the Northland growing rapidly, speed matters. MAR’s design-build process with Butler systems helps get your building up and running faster.
We’re Your Metal Building Contractor in the Northland
At MAR Building Solutions, we’ve delivered commercial, industrial, and municipal buildings across the Kansas City metro — including in the Northland. Our team provides:
- Site Feasibility Review: We help you understand utility access, zoning fit, and site constraints.
- Turnkey Project Management: From permitting through construction, we handle it all.
- Butler® Building Systems: As a certified Butler Builder, we deliver efficient, low-maintenance buildings built to last.
- Local Knowledge: We’ve worked with planning departments in Liberty, KCMO, Platte County, and more. We know the Northland’s requirements inside and out.
Ready to Build in the Northland?
The Northland is full of opportunity — but success depends on choosing the right partners, the right location, and the right building system. MAR Building Solutions is here to help you plan, build, and grow in Kansas City’s fastest-growing region.
Contact MAR today to schedule a Northland project consultation.
