City Council Approves 33-Story 515 Walnut Project, Redefining the Downtown Skyline

The Des Moines City Council has approved the construction of the 33-story 515 Walnut apartment tower, marking a significant development in the downtown area. This project will introduce 390 residential units and numerous amenities, addressing the city's growing housing demand and revitalizing the urban landscape. Anticipated to create over 700 construction jobs, the project is set to begin in early 2025 and aims for completion by 2027.

Des Moines woman injured after stepping through covered hole on downtown sidewalk

A pedestrian in Des Moines, Iowa, is considering legal action after sustaining injuries from stepping through a covered hole on a downtown sidewalk. The incident highlights concerns about public safety and infrastructure maintenance in urban areas. Shelley Renes, the injured party, works as an attendance clerk at Des Moines Public Schools.

Inter-Urban Trail's Wakonsa Bridge Remains Closed Pending Full Structural Assessment

The Wakonsa Bridge on the Inter-Urban Trail in Des Moines remains closed following severe weather that compromised its structural integrity due to a fallen tree. City officials are working diligently to assess the damage and devise a safe removal and repair plan, emphasizing safety for all trail users. Updates on the bridge's status can be found on the city's website.

Walnut Street Bridge Closing Next Week for Replacement Project

Des Moines will close the Walnut Street Bridge starting February 19, 2024, for a significant replacement project due to its structural deficiencies. The $19.1 million project aims to enhance safety by incorporating wider sidewalks, bike lanes, and improved aesthetics, with construction expected to continue until fall 2026.

2nd Avenue to Close at Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway as Essential Sewer Separation Progresses

Second Avenue in Des Moines will close at W Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway starting August 27, 2023, for an essential sewer separation project mandated by the EPA. The closure is expected to last three to four months, pending an archeological study due to the area's historical significance. The Des Moines Metropolitan Wastewater Reclamation Authority emphasizes the importance of this project for cleaner water in the community.

2nd Avenue Bridge Closing This Week for Bridge Deck Overlay

The 2nd Avenue and Birdland Drive bridges in Des Moines are set to close for final construction work starting April 18, 2023, as part of a $10 million rehabilitation project. The closures will affect traffic flow along a major north-south corridor serving approximately 19,000 vehicles daily, with detour routes provided for motorists. The project is anticipated to be completed by fall 2023, addressing the city's ongoing infrastructure improvements.

Crucial Ingersoll Run Sewer Project to Impact Downtown Traffic Starting April 3

The Ingersoll Run Sewer Project in Des Moines will significantly disrupt traffic on W. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway starting April 3, 2023, and is expected to continue until December 2024. Mandated by the EPA, this project aims to improve water quality by rerouting wastewater to treatment facilities, ultimately benefiting the environment despite the temporary inconvenience for residents and businesses.

Streets Team Facing High Volume of Requests During 'Pothole Season'

The Streets Maintenance Division of Des Moines is experiencing a surge in pothole repair requests during the annual "Pothole Season," with over 1,200 reports received as of March 7, 2023—more than double last year's figures. Public Works Director Jonathan Gano urges residents to be patient as crews manage both regular maintenance and a growing backlog exacerbated by recent snowfall. Residents can report potholes via the myDSMmobile app or by calling the Public Works Customer Service Center.

2nd Avenue Bridge Closed Two to Four Weeks

The 2nd Avenue Bridge in Des Moines will be closed for two to four weeks due to structural issues following a construction incident. City Engineer Steve Naber stated that efforts are underway to reinforce the bridge, with detours in place for affected traffic. This closure is expected to significantly impact local commuters.

Public Works Expects Pothole Reports To Surge With This Week's Warmer Weather

Warmer weather in Des Moines is expected to lead to a surge in pothole reports, prompting Public Works to mobilize crews for repairs. Residents are encouraged to report potholes via phone or the MyDSMmobile App to expedite the response. Public Works aims to address reported issues within 24-48 hours, although delays may occur during peak reporting times.