Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium Renovation
Over the past several years, the Polk County Board of Supervisors has struggled
with the future of the Polk County Convention Complex (Plex) and its role within
the Iowa Events Center (IEC). Current projections show a need to spend up to $20
million to bring the aging facility back into functioning condition. As an alternative
to that level of expenditure, the Board has determined to remodel the Veteran’s
Memorial Auditorium into a convention center, thus consolidating convention activities
with the events activities at Hy-Vee Hall and Wells Fargo Arena.
Renovation of VMA will include approximately 32,875 square feet of meeting room
space, 1,210 square feet of board room space and 28,730 square feet of multipurpose
ballroom space. This renovation will include the construction of an additional floor
in Vet’s Auditorium to accommodate the ballroom level. This space is intended to
replace the aging Polk County Convention Complex (Plex).
The Plex is an aging facility that was transferred to Polk County from the City
of Des Moines in July 1996. This facility is in need of millions of dollars in repairs/renovations.
Of additional concern to the Board, is whether or not the Plex, considering its
age and condition, can continue to remain competitive in the convention industry.
In 2008, Polk County engaged Economics Research Associates (ERA) to conduct a feasibility
study of whether or not an expansion at the IEC was needed due to the age of the
Plex. In April of 2009, the Board held a public meeting to receive input on two
conceptual design concepts for the expansion of meeting and ballroom space at the
Iowa Events Center. This space is intended to replace the aging Plex. The project
moved to schematic design in November and is now in design development. The design
includes adding an additional floor to accommodate a multi-use ballroom. The project
is expected to be bid in September, 2010 with construction completion by December
2011.
The remodeling of Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium will be paid for by extending the
existing debt payment for the Events Center by four years. The debt is being paid
by using gaming revenues from the lease of the Prairie Meadows facility.
For additional information contact:
Sue Elliott
Project Manager
Polk County Board of Supervisors
111 Court Avenue, Room 300
Des Moines, IA 50309
515-286-3128
Sue.Elliott@polkcountyiowa.gov