An 1880s school building may join Des Moines' Tiny Village plan
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The former Chesterfield School in Des Moines. Photo: Jason Clayworth/Axios
A vacant 1880s school building may be incorporated into Des Moines' Tiny Village plans, a spokesperson for the project tells Axios.
Why it matters: A decision about the school building could determine whether a piece of Des Moines history is preserved amid efforts to expand housing for people exiting homelessness.
Catch up quick: Joppa, a DSM-based group that serves people experiencing homelessness, has been planning for years to build a village of tiny homes with supportive services modeled after one in Austin, Texas.
- In October, the Des Moines City Council approved a lease-purchase agreement with Joppa for the village on nearly six acres in the 2500 block of Maury Street.
Zoom in: The plan could cost up to $10 million, with groundbreaking this year and occupancy in 2027.
- It calls for about 55 homes that are 384 square feet or smaller.
The intrigue: The property includes the former Chesterfield School, which was most recently used as a community center.
- The city had considered demolishing the building before Joppa became involved in the site's development.
What they're saying: Joppa is "taking a thoughtful look" at options for the building, Kelsey Ritchey, a spokesperson for the group, tells Axios.
Yes, but: The evaluation is still in its early stages and no decisions have been made.
What's next: A decision will be made by the end of spring, Ritchey said.