Merle Hay Mall Redevelopment Gains Momentum

After facing several delays, a key part of the Merle Hay Mall redevelopment project is progressing again.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) board recently approved an amended district plan and updated conditions for the project under IEDA’s Iowa Reinvestment District (IRD) program. The state’s financial commitment too the $164 million Merle Hay arena and entertainment district remains at $26.5 million.

IEDA board member Mark Kittrell acknowledged the challenges of the IRD program, stating, “This round of IRD has been difficult as the very beginning. The timing of the [funding] round, wiht COVID sitting in the middle of it made these projects difficult to conduct right from the get go.” He also expressed hope that the state would discontinue the IRD program,citing difficulties for cities,developers,and IEDA in navigating its requirements.

The current ownership of the 66-year-old, 74.6-acre mall property is collaborating with the cities of Des Moines and urbandale to transform the area into a contemporary shopping and mixed-use sports and entertainment hub. Des Moines and Urbandale are partnering on the project through a 28E agreement.