Des Moines’ Merle Hay Mall Redevelopment Receives Green Light from IEDA
Des Moines, IA – The Merle Hay Reinvestment District project has secured approval from the Iowa Economic Growth Authority (IEDA), paving the way for a $164 million transformation of the Merle Hay Mall area. The project, initially envisioned to include an arena for the Des Moines Buccaneers hockey team, has been recalibrated following the team’s decision to play at the MidAmerican Energy RecPlex in West Des Moines for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 seasons.
The redevelopment aims to revitalize the area with a diverse mix of offerings, addressing a need for updated retail, entertainment, and housing options in the region.The project’s success is crucial for the continued economic growth of the Merle Hay corridor and will impact residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Key milestones are now set,including securing $56.9 million in committed financing for the first phase of a multi-use sports complex by March 31, and identifying a hotel developer by December 31, 2027.
The amended project encompasses several components: a $56.9 million multi-use arena and volleyball facility, completed $3.1 million pickleball courts (Dinks Pickleball, which hosted 60,000 visitors in its first year), a $27 million hotel, a completed $12.4 million Kohl’s store, $17 million in planned retail space north of Kohl’s, a $3.5 million credit union, and phased mixed-use improvements totaling $40.8 million. Retail additions include Kid’s Empire, Riddle’s Jewelry, and Five Guys. Lillis Lofts,a housing component,was completed in 2022.
Since 2022, owners have completed retail, mall, and stormwater improvements. Work on the previously planned Merle Hay Tower has been moved to phase 6 of the project’s mixed-use campus improvements. The IEDA agreement requires documentation of committed financing for Phase One of the sports complex by March 31.
