Des Moines Council to Weigh $160,000 Incentive for Downtown Distillery
The Des Moines City Council will vote Monday on a $160,000 forgivable loan intended to bring a new Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery satellite location to 1312 Locust St. The proposal requires the Swisher-based distiller to commit at least $1.33 million toward the revitalization of the historic 1915 Chamberlain Building, transforming the former Americana restaurant space into a new hospitality destination.
A Multi-Purpose Hub for the Western Gateway
Cedar Ridge, recognized as Iowa’s oldest distillery, aims to renovate the 6,300-square-foot downtown footprint into a blend of restaurant space, cocktail lounge, and tasting room. Company president and general manager Jamie Siefken confirmed plans also include a dedicated event space. Siefken noted that the brand intends to incorporate an educational component focused on the history of whiskey production, utilizing the building’s rear storage area for these programs.
The move is strategically positioned to capture high foot traffic in the Western Gateway neighborhood. Executives cited the proximity to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and local residential developments as primary drivers for the expansion.
Loan Terms and Operational Benchmarks
Under the city’s financial proposal, the $160,000 loan will be forgiven at a rate of 20% annually over five years, provided the company meets strict operational mandates. To qualify, Cedar Ridge must execute a lease of at least five years, maintain operations for at least five days per week and five hours per day, and complete a renovation project with a minimum investment of $1.35 million.
Breann Bye, an economic development project manager for the city, stated that the arrival of a “premier Iowa brand” is expected to generate significant momentum for the district. City officials anticipate the venue will bolster downtown activity, appealing to both the growing residential population and office workers in the area.
Pivoting Away from Office Conversions
The project represents a change in trajectory for the Chamberlain Building.
Hurd indicated that the distillery’s proposal changed his outlook for the property. “We weren’t even looking for another retail tenant,” Hurd said. “I think it’s good news for the market that they’ve come forward and expressed an interest in the space.”
National Footprint and Future Timeline
Founded in 2005 by Jeff Quint, Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery has established a national footprint in the craft spirits market. Since releasing its first batch of whiskey in 2010, the company has secured industry accolades, including the American Distilling Institute’s 2017 Distiller of the Year award.
The company is currently targeting a spring 2027 opening for the Des Moines location. The proposal remains subject to final approval by the City Council during its upcoming session.
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