2024 Q4 Quarterly Insights
As we move closer to 2025, we're taking a moment to reflect on the industry changes and trends that shaped the past year while gearing up for what lies ahead. From shifts in workload patterns to Kansas City’s role on the global stage, there’s plenty to cover.
Looking Ahead: Inside IBC
In 2024, we noticed a shift in our "downtime months." Historically, February and October were the months when our teams could slow down and reconnect with family. However, this year, March and September took the title for downtime, a shift we believe is linked to the election year cycle and corporate tax schedules. With tax deadlines perfectly placed in those months, we hope this new trend continues into 2025.
Looking ahead, IBC is poised for a record-breaking year in 2025. Our project backlog is the largest it has ever been, and no matter what the upcoming election holds, we’re confident that our team, partnerships, and community will continue to rise to the occasion. As always, we find ways to adapt and push through, and that means collaborating with competitors when needed. Let’s build together for an even stronger tomorrow!
Kansas City on the World Stage: FIFA 2026
Kansas City is set to become an international hub when it hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Arrowhead Stadium as one of the match venues. Hosting the World Cup will require upgrades to the stadium, including widening the field and enhancing infrastructure to meet FIFA standards. The city's transportation system, including its streetcar network, will also play a key role in welcoming international visitors. This global event puts Kansas City on the map and offers IBC the opportunity to be part of a massive city-wide effort to showcase our community’s pride and spirit. The excitement around this event is already palpable as it presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our city.
FIFA 2026 Fast Facts
Kansas City will host six matches from the FIFA World Cup, including a knockout game on July 3 and a quarterfinal match on July 11.
Arrowhead is the fourth-largest stadium at the World Cup.
More than 6 million fans are expected to attend FIFA World Cup 26™
FIFA World Cup 26™ will be jointly hosted by 16 cities spread amongst The United States, Canada & Mexico and is the first-ever tournament with 48 teams competing for the title of World Champion.
What’s Happening with KC’s Streetcar?
Kansas City's streetcar expansion is moving full steam ahead, and it’s exciting to see how it’s transforming the city. Phase 2 of the streetcar, which wraps up in 2025, will extend the line all the way to the UMKC campus, connecting more of the city and boosting business and tourism. Looking beyond that, Phase 3 is set to take the streetcar down to the riverfront, improving access to a rapidly growing area. The even more ambitious Phase 4 plans include expanding routes toward the airport, making it easier than ever for travelers to explore the city when they arrive for major events like the 2026 World Cup. It’s an exciting time for KC, and the changes to our transportation infrastructure are a critical part of the city’s evolution.
Streetcar Fast Facts
Phase 2 will extend the streetcar system 3.5 miles south. It includes nine new platform stations and six new streetcars to the fleet, which will support 7,300 daily trips once operational.
(Source: Federal Transit Administration and KCUR)
The total project budget is $351.7 million, with approximately $174.1 million funded by federal grants and the remaining covered by local sources. (Source: Federal Transit Administration)
Phase 3 involves expanding the streetcar to the Riverfront, with expected further improvements on the Kansas City side.
As we move toward 2025, the opportunities for growth—both within our industry and here in Kansas City—are vast. From expanding our project backlog to participating in our city’s preparations for the world stage with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, IBC is proud to be part of this exciting future. We’re ready to continue building strong partnerships, adapting to market shifts, and finding new ways to rise to the challenges ahead.
Whether you're planning for next year or looking further down the road, let's build together. Reach out to us today and explore what we can accomplish.
