Our Work

2 Rivers District Land Use + Redevelopment Plan

Des Moines, Iowa

This vibrant area is located just south of Principal Park and across the Raccoon River. The area is appropriately named the ‘2 Rivers District’ as the Des Moines River and the Raccoon River merge at this location. The community was very involved in all aspects of this plan, including naming the district.

The plan was to create an attractive space that will support future revitalization of the area.  Indianola Avenue split the site into two pieces, and this plan is designed to again unite the community. The area is positioned to become the place to be in Des Moines.  It is near the river, the Riverwalk, and the baseball stadium.  The plan is to make it a civic space that will draw people across the river.  The central park spacing reaching back into the community was designed to give the river back to the neighborhood. For so many years it has been hidden behind warehouse space.  With the adjacent exciting things happening downtown; it is time that the neighborhood gets its river back.

The process to create the plan included and embraced the members of the neighborhood. Through representatives on the Steering Committee and open public meetings every voice had an opportunity to be heard. The process also included bringing both potential developers and the City to the table to develop a plan grounded in reality.

  • Des Moines

    1300 Walnut Street, Suite 200
    Des Moines, IA 50309
    p: (515) 288-4875
    f: (515) 288-8359
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    417 Delaware Street
    Kansas City, MO 64105
    p: (816) 531-7227
    f: (816) 531-7229
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  • Sioux Falls

    524 North Main Ave., Suite 201
    Sioux Falls, SD 57104
    p: (605) 339-1205
    f: (605) 339-1215
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  • Iowa City

    401 South Gilbert, First Floor
    Iowa City, IA 52240
    p: (319) 337-6634
    f: (319) 337-6635
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