Engineering firm to build $6 million Des Moines office

Engineering company LT Leon Associates wants to construct a $6 million office building just north of downtown, under a proposal that goes before Des Moines' Urban Design Review Board this morning.

Why it matters: It's among the first new developments along the future Central Place Trail, which will connect the Inter-Urban and Neal Smith trail systems.

Catch up fast: Owner Luis Leon started the business from his basement in 2009, specializing in environmental work, including landscape architecture and conservation projects.

• The company is now located in an office near the site of its proposed new building.

State of play: The City Council last year agreed to sell a vacant city-owned lot to the company for its expansion.

• Today's review is required prior to the closing of the sale. City staff is recommending the board give its recommendation for approval.

Zoom in: The proposed 8,200-square-foot building includes a rooftop deck that overlooks the DSM River and downtown.

• It'll use geothermal heating/cooling and solar power generation is being evaluated, according to a project summary.

The intrigue: Some of the company's local work includes a planned recreational river access project in Water Works Park and Holiday Park baseball field improvements in West Des Moines.