Kansas City, MO - The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), Buck O’Neil Bridge Project Team, Massman Clarkson Joint Venture in partnership with Art in the Loop Foundation (AILF), and artist Phil “Sike Style” Shafer announce the completion of the mural on the new Buck O’Neil Bridge in downtown Kansas City, MO.
This video features more about the mural selection and completion process, Buck O'Neil Bridge Mural Completion.
The mural is located on a retaining wall at the south end of the bridge at the intersection of Broadway Ave. and 3rd St. The sidewalks in front of the mural are now open.
Sike Style is known for his vibrant and dynamic murals that capture the spirit of the community. The completed mural honors the legacy of baseball legend Buck O’Neil while showcasing connections built through community, sports, and transportation.
In this video, Sike Style shares more about the images and artistic elements showcased in the mural, Buck O'Neil Bridge Mural - Artist Tour.
Renamed in 2016, the John Jordan “Buck” O’Neil Memorial Bridge (Buck O’Neil Bridge), carries U.S. Highway 169 over the Missouri River and serves as a key regional connection between downtown Kansas City and communities north of the river.
MoDOT and Negro Leagues Baseball Museum had the opportunity to collaborate throughout the process of the naming, groundbreaking, and opening of the Buck O’Neil Bridge
The new Buck O’Neil Bridge was opened in late 2024. The new bridge is anticipated to last for 100 years or more and will require much less costly maintenance. It will provide direct connections from Interstate 35 to U.S. Highway 169, dedicated lanes to downtown Kansas City, a new bike/pedestrian lane, access improvements at the downtown airport, and a scenic overlook with benches.
The artist selection process was led by Art in the Loop and began in the Spring 2024. As part of the selection process, a panel of artists, curators, and community members reviewed proposals from twenty-three local artists and selected four finalists to present their concepts.
Sike Style was selected for his ability to blend historical significance with modern vibrancy. For more on the artist, visit www.sikestyle.com
Completion of the mural is the last aesthetic improvement and addition to the bridge.
About the Missouri Department of Transportation
For more information about the Buck O’Neil Bridge Project, visit Buck O'Neil Bridge Design-Build Project | Missouri Department of Transportation.
For more information about MoDOT news, projects or events, please visit our website at www.modot.org/kansascity. For instant updates, follow MoDOT_KC on X, or share posts and comments on our Facebook at www.facebook.com/MoDOT.KansasCity/. MoDOT Kansas City maintains more than 7,000 miles of state roadway in nine counties. Sign up online for workzone updates or call 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636).
About Art in the Loop Foundation
The Art in the Loop Foundation (AILF) is dedicated to enriching the cultural fabric of Downtown Kansas City by commissioning and celebrating contemporary public art. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, AILF fosters an inclusive and equitable art community that highlights the talent and diversity of local artists. For more information, visit www.artintheloop.com.
About the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM) is the world’s only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of African American baseball and its impact on the social advancement of America. The privately funded, 501 c3, not-for-profit organization was established in 1990 and is in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri’s Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District. The NLBM operates two blocks from the Paseo YMCA where Andrew “Rube” Foster established the Negro National League in 1920. To learn more about the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, please visit nlbm.com.
