Latest News in Des Moines, IA

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.

Metro Communities Select Halloween for Trick-or-Treating in 2025

Metro communities in Iowa, including Des Moines, have decided to move Trick-or-Treating to Halloween on October 31, 2025, following strong resident feedback. This change may mark the end of the traditional Beggars' Night held on October 30, as local officials seek uniformity in celebration across the metro area. Community leaders emphasize the importance of maintaining Halloween traditions, such as children sharing jokes while trick-or-treating.

Brenton Skating Plaza Officially Open for the 2024-2025 Season

Brenton Skating Plaza in Des Moines, Iowa, has officially opened for the 2024-2025 season, offering a festive outdoor ice-skating experience along the Principal Riverwalk. Special programming, including discounted sessions for seniors and students, and free "Learn to Skate" sessions beginning December 7, 2024, are set to enhance the winter fun for all ages.

16 Recruits Graduate from Des Moines Police Academy

Sixteen recruits graduated from the Des Moines Police Academy on November 22, 2024, marking a significant milestone as the first class under Police Chief Michael McTaggart. The ceremony highlighted the academy's commitment to diversity, featuring recruits who collectively speak at least six languages. This new cohort will undergo field training as they begin their careers serving the Des Moines community.

Boaters and Residents Expect Temporary Lower Des Moines River Levels As Crews Remove Flashboards

Water levels on the Des Moines River will temporarily decrease starting November 21, 2024, as the City of Des Moines removes flashboards from the Center Street Dam to mitigate flood risk. Boaters and residents are advised to prepare for this change, which is expected to last 24-36 hours. The process will be weather-dependent and may be rescheduled to November 26 if conditions are inclement.

North Side Community Recreation Center Concepts to be Presented Nov. 18

The City of Des Moines is hosting its third community meeting on November 18, where residents can provide input on the preliminary design concepts for the new North Side Community Recreation Center. This meeting aims to recap feedback from earlier sessions and engage the community in the planning process, emphasizing local involvement in city development projects.

City of Des Moines Moves Beggars Night Trick-Or-Treating Due To Forecasted Weather

The City of Des Moines has rescheduled its annual Beggars’ Night trick-or-treating event to October 31, 2024, due to severe weather forecasts predicting storms during the original time. This decision aims to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for families in the community. Residents are encouraged to participate in the festive activities on the new date.

Chattanooga Zoo Welcomes Critically Endangered Pied Tamarin Twins

The Chattanooga Zoo has recently celebrated the birth of critically endangered pied tamarin twins, marking a significant addition to its population. Zoo officials are seeking public assistance in naming the new arrivals, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation efforts amidst habitat threats.

Beer cans spill across I-70 after tractor-trailer crash in Frederick County, Md.

A tractor-trailer rollover crash early Tuesday morning on I-70 in Frederick County, Maryland, resulted in beer cans spilling across the highway, leading to the shutdown of all lanes. The incident caused significant traffic delays as crews worked to clear the roadway. Local authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Former student helps Grand View win grant, bring heartfelt play to school kids

Former Grand View University student Emmitt Phillips has played a pivotal role in securing a grant that brings a heartfelt play to local elementary school children. This initiative, supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, aims to enrich the educational experience through the performing arts. The collaboration highlights the importance of community engagement in fostering creativity among youth.