Latest News in Des Moines, IA

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.

City's First Mega SCRUB of 2023 Offered at Convenient New Location

The City of Des Moines is hosting its first Mega SCRUB event of 2023 on April 15 at Merle Hay Mall, allowing residents to dispose of bulk trash and hazardous waste free of charge. Public Works Director Jonathan Gano emphasizes the event's significance, noting it typically attracts several hundred vehicles. Residents must provide proof of residency to participate.

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.

50 Late Fee for 2023 Pet Licenses Begins April 1

Des Moines residents must purchase their 2023 pet licenses by March 31 to avoid a $50 late fee, as required by city ordinance for all pets six months and older. The license costs $15 for spayed or neutered animals and $35 for those that are not, with special rates available for seniors. For further information, residents can contact the City Clerk’s Office or visit the city’s website.

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.

Storytelling Project Northside Community Recreation Center

The City of Des Moines is launching _The Storytelling Project_, a digital initiative aimed at documenting the community's history and culture through personal stories and artifacts related to the North Side Community Recreation Center. In collaboration with Invictus Media, the project invites residents to contribute photographs and participate in interviews, fostering community engagement and preserving local heritage.

DSM Snow Removal Team Prepares for Return of Winter Weather

The Des Moines Public Works Department is gearing up for a heavy snowfall expected to begin overnight on February 15, 2023, which may complicate Thursday morning commutes. Residents are urged to avoid driving and ensure vehicles are removed from designated snow routes to facilitate efficient snow removal operations.

City Launches "Improving Our Neighborhoods" Initiative

The City of Des Moines has launched the "Improving Our Neighborhoods" (ION) initiative, providing financial assistance to homeowners for essential exterior repairs. With a budget of $3.5 million, the program aims to revitalize neighborhoods and prevent properties from becoming nuisances. Targeting approximately 4,000 homes, ION supports low-income residents with grants and forgivable funding to enhance community livability.

Des Moines Public Library Secures 1 Million in Federal Funding for Early Literacy

Des Moines Public Library has secured $1 million in federal funding to enhance early literacy programs, significantly impacting community outreach efforts. This funding, part of the American Rescue Plan Act, will expand initiatives aimed at fostering reading skills among children and support outreach to more families and educational institutions.

Notice of Park Property Prescribed Burns

Des Moines Parks and Recreation has announced potential prescribed burns across various parks from November 2022 to May 2023, emphasizing the ecological benefits of controlled fires for native plant and animal communities. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through social media notifications and text alerts regarding burn locations, ensuring public safety during this process.