Sep 4, 2024 - News

Old courthouse annex could be a powerhouse

Jason Clayworth

A photo of the former courthouse in downtown Des Moines. — The former U.S. Courthouse Annex has about 110,000 square feet that could be redeveloped into restaurant and office space. Photo: Courtesy of the Polk County Assessor

The former U.S. Courthouse Annex in downtown Des Moines could become a restaurant and office space with a solar-powered parking lot.

Why it matters: The property, newly vacant due to the $121 million federal courthouse project, is prime downtown real estate.

State of play: Riverview DSM purchased the four-story property last year from the federal government.

Developers want to turn the first floor into a coffee shop, restaurant and gymnasium space.
The upper floors would be offices, Douglas Wells, Riverview co-owner, told the DSM Zoning Board of Adjustment last month.

Zoom in: Site owners also plan to redevelop two adjacent parking lots and a nearby vacant metal building into a nearly 125-stall parking facility with solar panels.

The intrigue: The parking structure could generate enough power for 100 homes, according to information provided to the city.

What's next: DSM's Plan & Zoning Commission will review the remodel request on Thursday.

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Old courthouse annex could be a powerhouse

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