Developer plans townhomes to replace troubled Des Moines bar

A developer is building luxury townhomes in Des Moines' southside with plans to get rid of a local bar that has troubled police.

What's happening: Adam Sieren, owner of Premier Construction Services, told Axios he's building at least 18 townhomes in the area by High Dive bar along Indianola Rd. and SW 7th St. He plans on demolishing the bar's property before the end of the year.

• "The area has got to go," Sieren said.

State of play: A shooting at High Dive just last weekend injured two people, leaving a woman in critical condition.

• It's not the first time police responded to problems at the bar. Officers have been called to High Dive more than 80 times this year. 19 of the calls were for fights and six were for shots fired, KCCI reports.
• Gun violence has long been prevalent at the location, including when it was W Ultra Lounge and The 508 Nightclub.

Of note: High Dive's owner didn't respond to a call for comment about the construction plans.

Details: The planned townhomes are three-story units with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, spanning 1,600 square feet. Prices start around $420K.

• Expect high-end amenities like a skyline view of downtown, heated two-car garages, LED lights and smart home capabilities.

What's next: Sieren said he plans on selling units this year, with buyers moving in starting early spring 2022.