AGP Executive Report

World Cup Travel Watch: Kansas City is gearing up for England’s arrival, but a mass shooting early Saturday near Troost Avenue left nine people injured (all expected to survive) and has renewed security questions, even as police say it wasn’t tied to the tournament. Stadium & City Planning: England beat New Zealand 1-0 in Tampa and will face Costa Rica in Orlando before moving to Kansas City; meanwhile, host-city weather coverage highlights how hot some venues typically get in summer, with Kansas City expected to swing from hot to very hot. Missouri Road & Weather Alerts: Flash Flood Warnings hit parts of central/southwest Missouri after heavy rain, and MoDOT roadwork is scheduled across Northern Missouri counties—plan for delays. Local Outdoor Getaway: A quick-hit guide spotlights five Missouri adventures close to home, including Elephant Rocks State Park. Safety on the Road: Multiple Missouri crashes this weekend included a fatal Stoddard County crash and serious injuries in Clinton and DeKalb County collisions.

World Cup Safety in Kansas City: A mass shooting on Troost Avenue early Saturday left nine adults wounded, all expected to survive, just days before England’s team base at Swope Soccer Village and nearby hotel use during the 2026 FIFA World Cup; police say no suspects were in custody as they continue patrols and investigate. Road Travel Alerts: Missouri drivers got a heads-up on upcoming MoDOT roadwork and closures across Northern Missouri, with multiple short-term route shutdowns for repairs and seal coat operations plus longer bridge work in parts of Putnam and Sullivan counties. Weekend Crash Updates: A fatal single-vehicle crash in rural Cole County killed one man, while separate recent crashes in St. Louis County and Warren County injured multiple people, including one death in Warren County. Local Events & Travel Fun: Parkville’s Banneker School Foundation marked Juneteenth with a free English Landing Park concert and preservation fundraiser, and the 25th annual Bittersweet Garden Tour runs June 14 in the Jefferson City area. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports the lowest midgrade price in Douglas County hit $4.39/gal in the week ending May 30, with Missouri’s midgrade average at $4.47/gal.

World Cup Travel & Missouri Base: A new look at the 2026 FIFA World Cup highlights the massive travel grind across 16 venues and time zones, with England choosing Kansas City, Missouri as a base—plus the heat-and-humidity reality fans will face. Airport & Visitor Convenience: CNN reports 21 U.S. airports now let non-ticketed guests pass through TSA using a free gate pass, making it easier to escort loved ones and enjoy terminal amenities. New Nonstop Flights: Allegiant launched a Columbia Regional nonstop to Orlando Sanford (Wednesdays and Saturdays), with a water-cannon sendoff and a near-full inaugural flight. Route 66 Momentum: A Route 66 centennial caravan is rolling from Santa Monica toward Chicago, underscoring how the Mother Road is still pulling road-trippers. Missouri Road Updates: MoDOT plans a short closure of the U.S. 63 exit onto Renz Farm Road in Callaway County next week for resurfacing, with one-lane traffic and flaggers. Outdoor Safety & Health: Missouri’s Department of Conservation is proposing camping-permit changes, while DNR warns against swimming at three state park beaches due to E. coli (one closed).

Route 66 Road Trip Buzz: A 2,448-mile, 20-day Route 66 centennial caravan rolled out from Santa Monica toward Chicago, with about 70 “roadies” aiming to spotlight classic scenery and small businesses—though higher gas prices add uncertainty. Missouri Travel Safety & Roads: A Versailles man died in a Morgan County crash after failing to negotiate a curve on Route W; troopers said he wasn’t wearing a seatbelt. Family-Friendly Air Travel: Allegiant launched a new Columbia Regional nonstop to Orlando Sanford, with flights Wednesdays and Saturdays—another boost for Missouri travelers heading to Florida. Outdoor & Camping Watch: Missouri conservation officials are moving toward new camping permit rules for MDC areas starting in 2027, with public input sought. Animal Health for Travelers: Missouri activated its New World Screwworm response plan after USDA confirmed the pest in Texas, tightening requirements for animal movement into the state. Weekend Planning (Lake of the Ozarks): A “Boat Gas Report” roundup is set for Lake of the Ozarks weekend fuel pricing, plus local event pointers for boaters.

Sports & Travel Planning: Missouri basketball’s first confirmed home game of 2026-27 is set: the Tigers host Pitt in the ACC/SEC Challenge on Dec. 1 at Mizzou Arena in Columbia, with tip time and TV still to come. Road Trips & Summer Safety: Missouri’s Summer Safety Day urges heat prep as highs near 90° and heat indexes approach 100°; experts stress frequent water breaks and planning for poor overnight cooling. Outdoor Health: Missouri is seeing a “goldilocks” tick season, with ticks more likely near wooded areas and wildlife; officials recommend permethrin-treated clothes and regular body checks. Family Fun at the Lake: Lake of the Ozarks weekend highlights include Jacob’s Cave swap days, Broadway-style shows, Dock Dogs-style “Canine Cannonball,” and classic-car cruising. Local Events: McDonald County will hold its first cross-county Independence Day parade on July 4, a 75-mile route meant to connect communities. Transit Update: Columbia’s Albert-Oakland Pool reopened after filtration-related closure, and staffing remains a key summer challenge. World Cup Buzz: Opening ceremonies details are rolling out as the tournament kicks off next week across North America.

Road & Safety Updates: A driver has been charged months after a March 22 crash that killed 18-year-old Tessa Walker in Platte County; prosecutors say Omar Patel drove over 100 mph with alcohol. Road Work: MoDOT will resurface seven routes in northwest Missouri starting June 19–22, with lane closures or full closures possible—check the MoDOT traveler map for detours. Family Fun by the Water: Columbia’s Albert-Oakland Family Aquatic Center reopened after filtration repairs, but the city is still hiring lifeguards to keep summer schedules running. Weekend at the Lake: Lake of the Ozarks is packed with events like Jacob’s Cave swap days, classic car nights, and Dock Dogs-style “Canine Cannonball” festivities. Travel Planning for Big Events: World Cup travel is boosting regional traffic; Oklahoma DOT says I-35 will be a key corridor and will coordinate real-time updates with neighboring states. Outdoors & History: Missouri’s new “New World screwworm” readiness plan adds extra animal shipment checks as the pest is confirmed in south Texas. Community & Local Pride: Wildwood is moving toward its first historic preservation plan after a public hearing, with more steps before adoption. Festivals: The Ozarks has a list of fireworks celebrations for America’s 250th birthday and Independence Day week.

World Cup Travel Prep: Kansas City is one week out from its FIFA Fan Festival, with ConnectKC26 airport shuttles starting June 11 and KC2026 saying Fan Festival stage/infrastructure is on schedule for June 9 while bus drivers train next week. Safety & Weather: A tornado warning hit northwest Missouri near Albany, with the storm moving toward New Hampton and Bethany; meanwhile, multiple wet-road crashes across the region sent drivers to hospitals, including an I-29 guardrail crash near Mound City and a Highway 36 collision near Cameron. Camping Rules: The Missouri Department of Conservation is proposing new camping permits for conservation areas, aiming to address safety concerns and illegal activity, with a $5 permit for five days under discussion. Outdoor/Travel Ideas: Independence is highlighted as a walkable Missouri getaway built around a compact historic square and easy sidewalks. Family Fun & Local Events: Carthage is gearing up for a history-and-rodeo weekend, including Experience History Weekend and the Carthage Stampede and Battle of Carthage reenactment. Road Trip Culture: Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 is drawing crowds as it continues its America 250 East Coast tour.

World Cup travel health: Pan American health officials warn the 2026 men’s World Cup could spread measles, urging travelers without proof of vaccination to get a measles-rubella shot ahead of time. Missouri camping rules: The Missouri Department of Conservation is proposing $5 camping permits (up to five days) for most MDC conservation-area campers, citing rising violations, safety issues, and environmental impacts; public feedback is sought. Route 66 tourism push: Missouri Lt. Gov. David Wasinger announced a new “Buy Missouri Route 66 Guide” highlighting Missouri-made businesses along the historic corridor. Kansas City visitor boost: The new Morton Amphitheater in Riverside opened with Kesha, with officials touting major annual tourism impact. Weekend plans in Missouri: Carthage is gearing up for a busy history-and-Route 66 weekend plus the Carthage Stampede and Rodeo (June 5-6) and a Battle of Carthage reenactment (June 6-7). On-the-ground travel safety: A Camden County motorcyclist was seriously hurt after crashing while avoiding a deer. Outdoor access note: Missouri’s conservation areas may soon move away from free camping as permit rules advance.

Air Travel & Tourism: Allegiant launched new service at Columbia Regional Airport, with flights to Orlando-Sanford starting Wednesday and Destin-Fort Walton Beach beginning Friday—local leaders call it a major boost for mid-Missouri travelers and tourism. Road Trips & Family Fun: Team Grease Worms is back for the 2026 Buffalo Run Adventure Challenge, with a new route that includes Branson and stops across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Missouri to raise money for Camp Able. Conservation & Outdoor Rules: Missouri Conservation Commission approved changes affecting nonresident deer hunting (antlered buck limit reduced for nonresidents without Missouri property) and is considering proposed rule changes that could add camping fees on MDC lands. World Cup Watch (Kansas City): The DEA is warning that large events can increase opportunities for drug trafficking and says highway enforcement will be a focus as visitors pour into the metro. Local Travel Disruptions: MoDOT selected a contractor for a major I-44 improvement project, and Sullivan County Route N near Green City closes June 4 for culvert replacement. Safety on the Road: Multiple crashes across the state left injuries and at least one fatality, including a deadly I-44 crash near Mount Vernon and a serious Cole County collision near St. Thomas.

World Cup Tourism & Lodging: Jackson voters will decide in August on a proposed 5% hotel & tourism tax aimed at boosting local promotion and events. Kansas City Travel Demand: North Kansas City temporarily banned camping on public property from June 11 to July 21 during the FIFA World Cup, with 24-hour removal notices. New Air Service: Allegiant launched its first flight into Columbia Regional Airport from Orlando-Sanford, with additional routes to Destin and St. Pete-Clearwater planned. Outdoor & Family Fun: Honey Creek Resort in Iowa is set to reopen in mid-June, and Missouri hiking gets a spotlight with summer trail picks like Devil’s Icebox and Hickory Canyons. Road Safety: A south KC crash left a driver critically injured after hitting a speed limit sign and a streetlight; in Poplar Bluff, a woman was hurt after falling from a moving vehicle. Weather Watch: A major severe weather system is putting over 25 million people at risk across the Plains and into the Midwest.

World Cup Travel & Local Rules: North Kansas City has passed a temporary ban on outdoor camping from June 11 to July 21 as FIFA World Cup crowds roll into the metro, with a 24-hour warning before tents and gear can be confiscated. Outdoor Recreation Policy: The Missouri Department of Conservation is proposing a $5 permit for camping at many conservation-area sites (up to five days and 10 people), plus limits on how often people can camp; public comments run July 16–Aug. 14, with changes targeted for early 2027. Road Trip Disruptions: Old Lemay Ferry Road south of Arnold (Vogel Road to Spring Forest Drive) is closed to northbound traffic for widening and safety work, with one-way southbound access and a planned Aug. 24 return to normal traffic. Cycling Safety Debate: Jefferson City’s “Idaho Stop” ordinance for cyclists was vetoed and sent back to committee for possible revisions. Missouri Summer Fun: A list of 10 Missouri summer festivals highlights big draws like Fair St. Louis, the Missouri State Fair, and Roots N Blues in Columbia. Local Events: Missouri Valley Master Gardeners host a Lawn & Garden tour June 13, with registration at Riverview Reformed Church.

Route 66 Revival: Sullivan’s Shamrock Court Motel has reopened, bringing a classic Route 66 stop back to life for travelers. Comfort Food Spotlight: Kansas City’s Q39 is highlighted for its barbecue-as-comfort-food approach, with low-and-slow oak-and-hickory technique. Veterans Housing: St. Michael’s Veterans Center in Kansas City completed Valor House, adding permanent affordable homes for 179 veterans. Air Travel Update: Lufthansa added seasonal frequency on its St. Louis–Frankfurt nonstop, boosting service to five days a week through October. World Cup Travel Costs: A new breakdown estimates Americans may spend roughly $3,300 to $7,500+ per person to attend the 2026 World Cup, depending on host city. State Parks & History: Mark Twain State Park marked America’s 250th with new flags across the grounds. Outdoor Camping Rules: Missouri’s conservation agency is seeking public comment on proposed camping permit changes for MDC lands. Road & ADA Work: Camdenton’s Ha Ha Tonka Road entrance closes June 3–24, and Jackson’s U.S. 61/MO 72 gets ADA sidewalk improvements June 15–July 24. Safety & Travel Tips: Missouri guidance notes there’s no specific ban on pets in laps, but it can lead to distracted/reckless driving issues—secure pets instead. Fishing Guide: A Missouri fishing roundup spotlights top lakes for bass, crappie, catfish, and more.

World Cup Travel Watch: Kansas City is bracing for heavier traffic statewide as FIFA World Cup visitors move between hotels, Arrowhead-area events, and attractions, and MoDOT is urging drivers to plan ahead (especially mid-June through mid-July). Road Work Disruptions: MoDOT begins a six-month I-70/Route O interchange reconstruction Tuesday, with major ramp closures and detours through November. Camping Rules Proposal: The Missouri Department of Conservation is seeking public input on new permits for camping on conservation areas starting March 2027, citing rising violations, safety issues, vandalism, and longer-than-allowed stays. Lake Fun & Family Events: Wappapello Lake hosts a free Jack Miller Memorial Kid’s Fun Day June 6 with fishing, cookout, and awards, plus more summer programming at the lake. Safety Reminder: A Willard man drowned June 1 at Stockton Lake’s Master’s Swim Beach while attempting to swim across a cove.

FIFA World Cup Travel Pressure: MoDOT is warning drivers to plan ahead for sharply heavier traffic across Missouri as World Cup crowds move between Kansas City hotels, venues, and attractions. Roadwork Detour Alert: A six-month I-70/Route O interchange reconstruction starts Tuesday, with multiple ramp closures and detours running through November. Outdoor Camping Rules: The Missouri Department of Conservation is proposing camping permits for conservation areas (including a $5 five-day permit for up to 10 people) and special permits for larger groups, with changes targeted for March 2027. State Park Summer Plans: Missouri state parks and historic sites are kicking off June with family-friendly events, including gardening programs, festivals, and hands-on activities. Lake Season Picks: Missouri’s most popular lakes are gearing up for summer fun, from Lake of the Ozarks to Table Rock and Mark Twain Lake. MDC Hunting Update: Nonresident deer hunting rules are shifting, including a reduced antlered buck bag limit and a proposed $165 public-land permit starting with the 2027 season. Route 66 Spotlight: Joplin’s World Street Painting festival returns June 6, celebrating Route 66’s 100th birthday with 3D chalk art. Safety Note: A house fire near the Lake area in Morgan County killed several family pets; the cause was listed as undetermined.

World Cup Travel Prep: Argentina’s World Cup title defense kicked off with the team landing in Kansas City, setting up at the Origin Hotel and training at Sporting KC’s Kansas City, Kansas facility—plus expect more visitor traffic across Missouri. Tipping & Dining Costs: Some U.S. World Cup host-city restaurants are posting notices for a 20% automatic gratuity during the tournament to help international guests navigate U.S. tipping norms. Road Trips & Getting Around: MoDOT’s big I-70 modernization push continues, including Providence Road Bridge demolition and ongoing northern Missouri closures/bridge work that could mean detours and delays. Rail History on the Move: The “Big Boy” steam locomotive tour is heading toward Illinois and then back through Ohio and Missouri as part of America’s 250th birthday celebrations. Outdoor & Nature: Spring River fish and mussels are rebounding after decades of cleanup, but new threats are already on the horizon. Family Travel Budgeting: With summer spending rising, travelers are being urged to plan ahead so fun doesn’t quietly turn into overspending. Wildlife Safety: Missouri’s black bear sightings are trending in certain counties—experts say don’t run if you encounter one.

Road & Bridge Updates: MoDOT is “future-proofing” I-70 with a major $2.8B Improve I-70 push, including adding a third lane each direction and rebuilding bridges/overpasses around Columbia and Boone County. Weekend Detours: The Providence Road Bridge demolition in Columbia is finished, but drivers can’t cross I-70 via Providence Road for months; expect detours and ramp closures. Northern Missouri Closures: More scheduled road closures and bridge work are set across northern counties (Route F, Route V, Route AX, Route K, Route Z, plus longer Route 5 resurfacing). Travel Deals & Costs: AAA reports Missouri gas is down about 13–15 cents, but diesel remains pricey—still a hit to grocery and retail costs. World Cup Travel Watch: Kansas City is gearing up for FIFA World Cup crowds, with Argentina arriving for training at a KC-area base. Family Fun & Outdoors: Forest Park in St. Louis was named the top U.S. park in USA Today’s 10Best awards; plus, Shawnee Bend Sand is bringing white-sand “beach” vibes to Lake of the Ozarks. Safety Note: A Missouri biker suffered minor injuries in a crash with a semi in Holt County.