Council to Consider Purchase of Nationwide Building, Transform Government Operations

The Des Moines City Council is considering a pivotal agreement to purchase the former Nationwide building located at 1200 Locust Street, scheduled for discussion at their meeting on September 12, 2022. This initiative aims to consolidate government operations from five different locations into one modern facility, enhancing efficiency and service provision. City officials estimate the purchase price of $30 million for the five-story, 360,000-square-foot office building is a cost-effective solution compared to market rates for new construction, which are currently between $300 to $400 per square foot. Alongside the building, the city also plans to acquire a parking ramp for $10. 6 million, further optimizing operational costs.

The consolidation will result in the closure of outdated facilities, including the Des Moines Police Department headquarters and the Argonne Armory, which have served the city for decades. Deputy City Manager Matt Anderson emphasized the historic significance of this move, highlighting its potential to transform city operations over the next fifty years. Following the purchase, a Request for Proposals will be issued to select an architectural firm to conduct a workspace utilization study, with the first phase expected to conclude by mid-2023. This strategic decision reflects the city's commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and improving the quality of services offered to its residents.