Hello Historic West Des Moines! Our next steering committee meeting will be taking place next week on Wednesday, June 29th at 4:30pm, with virtual and in-person participation welcome. For the latest information on meeting dates, times and virtual access details please visit the Meetings page on the project website or take a peek at the City Calendar online. The focus of this meeting will be on reviewing the draft guidelines for the Mixed Industrial District, which lies both north and south of Railroad Avenue – see areas highlighted in light blue and labeled “MI” on the map below.
Historic West Des Moines Design Districts Map
Recap: Transitional District Recommended by Committee
At the meeting on June 1st the Steering Committee recommended approval of the Transitional District Design Guidelines (as presented) and the revised District Boundaries, which were scaled back significantly (~50%) from what was presented in April. Prior to the June 1st meeting, a detailed FAQ webpage and a series of brochures were shared and mailed to properties in the study area highlighting these amendments. The updated map is shown above.
Questions and discussion came up regarding setbacks for the Transitional District and what would be appropriate given the existing character of homes in the district. The team developed 3D renderings (highlighted below) to visualize existing front setbacks and are recommending existing zoning front setback standards remain in place.
Transitional District · Existing Front Setback Visualizations
4th Street Between Walnut and Elm
5th Street between Vine and Locust
6th Street Between Locust and Elm
The team is also looking into existing rear and side setbacks and will be sharing a suggested recommendation, forthcoming. Please subscribe for email updates via the homepage to receive future project news.
Next Up: Mixed Industrial Design Guidelines on 6/29
As noted, our next steering committee meeting will be taking place next week on Wednesday, June 29th at 4:30pm, with virtual and in-person participation welcome. For the latest information on meeting dates, times and virtual access details please visit the Meetings page on this project website or City Calendar online.
The Mixed Industrial District is a unique area that emerged as a focal point through community outreach and discussion. At prior meetings residents have voiced concerns about the look and feel of properties in this district, noting a need for improved design standards and property maintenance, especially in reference to the area north of Railroad Avenue and south of Holiday Park where industrial uses intermix with residential homes. Locals have also noted a desire for areas that can support incubator type businesses and creative maker spaces. Industrial areas and adaptive retrofits of warehouses are quite common for these types of uses.
Design guidelines are important to ensure future development is attractive and planned with the local community in mind. Recommendations focus on building design, form, landscaping and proper screening of trash, storage and service areas. Site design, connectivity, and public art to enhance and strengthen local character will also be discussed.
We look forward to sharing and discussing design guidelines on the Mixed Industrial District next week!