Polk County may explore turning underused land around the Iowa Events Center into a mixed-use entertainment district that could include more convention space.
Why it matters: The proposal could create a denser destination that adds housing, businesses and a larger tax base.
Driving the news: Supervisors on Tuesday will consider hiring Simonson & Associates to study the concept.
- It could cost over $273,000, with Des Moines contributing $25,000 and Knapp Properties $50,000, according to meeting documents.
State of play: The primary study area covers more than 3 acres immediately south of the convention complex, roughly between Park Street and Grand Avenue and Third and Fourth streets.
- An optional study would examine another 9 acres north of the complex toward I-235.
Zoom in: The study area includes or borders several redevelopment candidates, including Knapp Properties/JSC’s former Koch Office Group site at 325 Grand Ave.,now vacant after demolition, and the Brown Garage complex at Fourth and Grand, which its owner wants to demolish for redevelopment…