Today marked the dedication of the Sylvester “Sly” James, Jr. Pavilion at the Kansas City Convention Center, a tribute to our 54th mayor. Former Mayor James was honored for his impactful leadership and lasting contributions to the city.
Today marked a milestone for Kansas City, as the community came together to honor one of its most influential civic leaders with the dedication of the Sylvester “Sly” James, Jr. Pavilion at the Kansas City Convention Center. The event served not just as a ceremonial gesture, but as a recognition of years of tireless work, enduring leadership, and unwavering dedication that shaped the city into what it is today. Former Mayor James, Kansas City’s 54th mayor, has left a legacy that now has a permanent place in the heart of downtown, where progress and people converge. The atmosphere at the dedication was vibrant and emotional, a blend of civic pride and personal appreciation from those who witnessed firsthand the transformation of the city during his tenure. The naming of the pavilion is more than symbolic—it’s a visible, public affirmation that leadership rooted in community connection, forward-thinking policy, and unyielding advocacy for the city deserves to be remembered, not just in stories, but in the physical fabric of the city.
Sly James, who served as mayor from 2011 to 2019, stepped into leadership at a pivotal moment in Kansas City’s development. Known for his bold personality, compelling communication style, and unshakeable belief in Kansas City’s potential, he championed a variety of initiatives that elevated the city’s profile on the national stage. From infrastructure to education, public safety to the arts, James put forth a vision of a thriving urban center that balanced economic growth with cultural richness and equity. The dedication ceremony itself brought out a diverse crowd: former colleagues, civic leaders, business figures, educators, and residents from neighborhoods all across the city, each representing the different sectors and communities touched by James’s leadership. Speeches were filled with personal anecdotes and policy reflections, with speakers highlighting key moments from his administration that helped define the Kansas City of the 2010s. A common theme was James’s authenticity—how he showed up as himself in every room, whether addressing school children, city councilmembers, or national leaders.
Under his leadership, Kansas City witnessed a renewed sense of momentum. One of his signature accomplishments was the expansion of the city’s streetcar line, a project that was initially met with skepticism but eventually became a symbol of revitalization and connectivity for downtown. It spurred commercial investment along the corridor, increased foot traffic to local businesses, and shifted perceptions of what transit could look like in a growing Midwestern city. James also played a pivotal role in elevating Kansas City’s role as a tech and innovation hub. With initiatives like the Smart City project and partnerships that expanded digital infrastructure, his administration encouraged tech firms and startups to see Kansas City not just as flyover country, but as a city ripe with opportunity. His tenure coincided with the rise of Google Fiber in the region, and he took full advantage of that moment to push for digital inclusion and city-wide access to fast internet as a tool for education and economic growth.
Education was another cornerstone of his administration. Though the mayor’s office doesn’t directly control schools, James was undeterred in his belief that the city’s future hinged on its young people. He launched the Turn the Page KC initiative, which focused on improving third-grade reading levels—a key predictor of future academic success. By forging partnerships with libraries, nonprofits, teachers, and parents, the initiative highlighted how a city leader can galvanize a community around educational equity, even without formal jurisdiction over schools. Turn the Page KC went on to gain national attention and continues to serve as a model for collaborative civic engagement in education. Moreover, James consistently prioritized the arts, culture, and the creative economy. He understood that a vibrant city is defined not just by its buildings or budgets, but by its soul—its artists, musicians, performers, and storytellers. His support for the arts helped Kansas City secure funding, grow its arts organizations, and maintain its reputation as a creative capital in the heart of America. His push for public art, support for cultural districts, and vocal championing of local talent fostered a renewed energy in the city’s creative communities.
Yet James’s legacy also includes addressing the tough issues. Public safety remained a challenge during his administration, and he often spoke candidly about the root causes of violence, including poverty, access to education, and systemic inequities. He was vocal in his support for programs that offered alternatives to incarceration and aimed to reduce recidivism through workforce training and rehabilitation. He also prioritized community policing strategies and efforts to improve relationships between law enforcement and neighborhoods. Throughout his tenure, James never shied away from hard conversations. Whether it was speaking out about racial disparities, gender equity, or the city’s economic divides, he used his platform to elevate discussions that were often avoided in political discourse. It was this courage—to name uncomfortable truths, to challenge long-standing systems, and to advocate for justice—that endeared him to many and defined his style of leadership.
Today’s dedication ceremony, while celebratory, was also reflective. Attendees shared how James helped them feel seen, heard, and respected. A young entrepreneur recalled how the mayor took the time to visit her shop during its opening and stayed long enough to learn about her story. A school principal recounted James’s visit to his school during a reading initiative, noting how his presence boosted morale and inspired students. An elderly resident remembered James showing up to a neighborhood meeting unannounced, sitting in the back, taking notes, and following up on concerns raised by residents. These stories, more than policy papers or press releases, painted a picture of a mayor who led with heart and conviction. The naming of the pavilion ensures that such moments are etched not only in memory but in the physical center of civic life.
The pavilion itself, located at the Kansas City Convention Center, will now serve as a lasting tribute and gathering place. Its centrality within downtown makes it symbolic of the inclusive leadership James strove for—a place where all Kansas Citians could come together, share ideas, and celebrate community. The Convention Center, already a hub for culture, commerce, and conversation, gains an additional layer of meaning through this dedication. Going forward, every event held there will, in a sense, be touched by his legacy. As people walk past the plaque bearing his name, they’ll be reminded not only of a man, but of a movement—a push toward progress, equity, and citywide pride.
James, now retired from public office, continues to be active in civic life, offering guidance to young leaders, writing about urban policy, and participating in forums focused on the future of American cities. He remains a trusted voice and sought-after speaker, and his legacy continues to grow, not only in Kansas City but across the country. His post-mayoral work, including co-authoring books and working with national coalitions, shows that his commitment to service didn’t end when he left office—it simply evolved.
Today’s dedication is a testament to the fact that leadership, when done with integrity and vision, outlives the terms of office. The Sylvester “Sly” James, Jr. Pavilion will stand for generations as a reminder that mayors are not merely administrators of policy but caretakers of the people’s trust. Kansas City’s 54th mayor understood that trust is earned, not inherited, and he worked every day to honor it. His laughter, presence, and passion became staples of city life, and even now, they echo through every corner of Kansas City’s growth. The dedication is not just a reflection on what has been accomplished but a challenge to those who follow—to lead boldly, listen deeply, and love this city with everything they’ve got.
