The Argonne Armory Building on Des Moines' Riverfront. Photo: Courtesy of the City of Des Moines
(Des Moines, IA) -- Public and private development projects in Downtown Des Moines are expected to revitalize the area, including the Riverfront.
That includes 515 Walnut Street, a new apartment building that will reach 33 stories once completed later this year.
And plans are moving forward to construct Iowa's first professional soccer stadium downtown.
"We're really excited about the additional vibrancy that the soccer stadium will bring. And the global plaza and all of the spin-off that comes from that; the hotels, the businesses, the multi-family projects, " said Cody Christensen, Des Moines City Development Director.
The $90-million dollar stadium is scheduled to open in 2029.
He also points to the building redevelopment at the former Des Moines Armory Building, the ICON Water Trails project and improvements being made to the skate park and ice skating rinks on the riverfront.
Plans for the former Argonne Armory building include apartments, an upscale speakeasy bar and a coffee shop. The building was built in 1934 in the Art Deco Style and has been designated as a local historical landmark.
"The riverfront is really going through a transformation right now," Christensen said.
Christensen anticipates all the projects will increase foot traffic downtown and pump more money into the local economy.