OneVoice DSM Podcast: Merle Hay Mall Revitalization

The OneVoice DSM “Major Projects” podcast series highlights the major projects and initiatives happening in Greater Des Moines (DSM), as well as the key players and Partnership Investors making these projects happen. 

In the latest episode, Greater Des Moines Partnership Chief Operations Officer Tiffany Tauscheck, Orchard View Sports & Entertainment Managing Partner Michael Devlin and Merle Hay Investors CEO Liz Holland outline the investment into the new Des Moines Buccaneers Arena at Merle Hay Mall. The new multi-purpose arena will seat 3,500 and be a regional draw due to its size.

Holland talks about the path to revitalizing the mall as the retail landscape changed over the years. A lot of malls are rethinking their mission and role in the community. After bringing in Flix Brewhouse and Gameday as tenants, unique non-retail businesses, expanding that idea to include the new hockey arena made sense and will create a one-of-a-kind statewide and regional attraction. Holland says being able to reuse existing infrastructure is not only helpful from a development standpoint, it’s also an eco-friendly, sustainable option.

Regional Impact

Because of the project’s many moving parts and sheer size of the stadium, public and private partnerships have been integral to its success. Like the Dico Superfund Site and Merle Hay Road Gateway Project[MS2] , the Des Moines Buccaneers Arena Project has taken cooperation between many entities/communities in order to grow DSM in enduring and innovative ways. Devlin touches on the many aspects of the arena project that set it apart, including the ease of getting into the location, better sight lines, fan engagement opportunities and built-in amenities. For youth tournaments, especially, the location will provide other entertainment options, making it a one-stop for families attending.

Once the project is approved, Devlin says the shovels will be in the ground immediately due to the existing infrastructure. The Des Moines Buccaneers could open their 2022 season in the new arena if all goes according to plan. Holland says the project is a labor of love and that being able to fulfill her grandfather’s vision for creating something special in that area of DSM is fulfilling.

Listen to the entire podcast above to learn more.

Throughout Greater Des Moines’ (DSM’s) 10-county region, a thriving economic environment is attracting more Investors to do business. Learn more about other recent development projects in the region.