Court Avenue closures start Friday: What to know

Key sections of DSM's Court Avenue close to traffic and those under 21 at 9pm tonight. (It's a Fri-Sat thing and areas reopen at 2am.)

We're already hearing about some heartaches.

• Groups with someone < 21 leaving events like at the nearby Civic Center could find themselves all dressed up with nowhere close to grab a late bite.

Why it matters: If we don't get this right, our entertainment district and its businesses will suffer.

Be smart: Two shootings in the district left five people injured last month.

• DSM, Polk County and biz owners are trying to make the area safer so it isn't stigmatized as violent.

Details: The plan closes a nearly two-block span along Court Avenue and another block along Third Street.

• Dozens of security officers and new cameras will be in place.
• The late-night road closures allow for expanded patio seating.
• The plan continues through Sept. 4.

What they're saying: Almost all the area businesses agree with the plan, Polk County Supervisor Tom Hockensmith told Jason yesterday.

• Yes, but: Evaluations are ongoing. A limited waiver for minors accompanied by a parent or guardian is possible, Hockensmith said.