Overland Park

Overland Park was founded in 1868 when William B. Strang Jr. purchased a massive tract of land in what is now northeast Johnson County and platted a subdivision along a military road that connected Westport with the Santa Fe Trail. Strang envisioned a thriving community with a park-like setting, thus naming it Overland Park.

Although the games were played at Royals Stadium in Kansas City, the surrounding metropolitan area, including Overland Park, celebrated the Kansas City Royals' victory in the 1985 World Series. This was the first championship for the Royals and a significant event for the local community that brought widespread pride and jubilant celebrations across the area.

The Kansas City Power & Light District, though located in Kansas City, had a significant impact on Overland Park as residents often visited this newly established entertainment district. Opened at the close of 1995, it revitalized the downtown area and fostered economic growth that resonated with nearby suburban cities including Overland Park.

Sprint Corporation opened its impressive World Headquarters Campus in Overland Park in November 2002. The campus, spread over 200 acres and consisting of multiple interconnected buildings, was one of the largest corporate headquarters built in the 2000s. This development brought thousands of jobs to the area and significantly contributed to the city's economic growth.

The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens expanded in early 2011, adding new gardens and features that drew visitors from all over the region. Covering over 300 acres, the arboretum is dedicated to enhancing appreciation and stewardship of the natural environment. The expansion included themed gardens, sculpture installations, and a focus on sustainability.

The Overland Park Convention Center underwent a major renovation in 2014, improving its facilities and expanding its capacity to host events. Originally opened in 2002, this convention center serves as a vital economic and community hub for Overland Park, attracting numerous business events, meetings, and tourists to the city each year.

In April 2015, Trailwood Elementary in Overland Park suffered extensive damage due to a tornado outbreak that swept through the area. The school community rallied together to rebuild and recover from the natural disaster, showcasing the resilience and solidarity among the residents. The event highlighted the challenges associated with severe weather in the region.

The City of Overland Park was recognized for its excellence in digital governance and e-government services in 2017. The city's efforts in using technology to improve public services earned it prestigious accolades in the E-Gov Awards. This achievement underscored Overland Park's commitment to modernizing municipal operations to better serve its residents.

The COVID-19 pandemic affected Overland Park as it did many cities across the globe. Businesses had to adapt to new health guidelines, schools shifted to remote learning, and the community faced unprecedented challenges. Throughout 2020, Overland Park strove to manage public health responses, support businesses, and provide resources to its residents during this difficult time.

In December 2021, Scheels opened its large and much-anticipated sporting goods store in Overland Park. This two-story destination featured an indoor Ferris wheel and various attractions, becoming a cornerstone for retail and leisure in the community. The opening provided new jobs and added to the city's economic development.