'Everybody's going to benefit': Neighbors happy with plan for old Plaza Lanes site
A new $14 million building project will revitalize a north Des Moines neighborhood devastated by a fire seven years ago.
Affordable housing is still a big priority for the city of Des Moines, and that's why this vacant lot is on their radar.
In December 2017, a massive fire destroyed the Plaza Lanes bowling alley at 2710 Douglas Ave., leaving a significant void in the community.
"That's pretty devastating for the area," said Keith McKay, owner of Reliable Maintenance.
McKay expressed optimism about the new development.
"They're bringing millions of dollars in here. And it's going to be an uplift for the community. It's going to be, you know, everybody's going to benefit," McKay said.
On Monday, the city approved final funding for the developers of Alley Landing.
Phase one of the project includes a 40-unit affordable housing complex with a dog park and playground, targeting renters at or below 60% of the median income. Phase two includes a second 40-unit complex.
The development will also feature space for two new businesses near Douglas Avenue.
"There's two great things about it. This is a corridor that desperately needs some new construction to give it, kind of, a new life. And that's really important. And then the fact that it is also affordable housing really leverages the whole development to be something really important for the people of Des Moines," said Des Moines City Councilman Chris Coleman.
If all goes as planned, construction could begin in the next few weeks and be completed in about a year.
Previous coverage of Plaza Lanes fire
WATCH: Plaza Lanes engulfed in flames
WATCH: Sky8 Drone flies over Plaza Lanes fire
WATCH: Authorities release cause of fire that destroyed Plaza Lanes
