West Des Moines City Council will discuss some development proposals for the Valley Junction area at its Monday night meeting. City officials said that they will also take the first step to re-examine the long-term master plan for the area.
Members of the City Council will consider some development agreements along Fifth Street, including a proposed three-story mixed-use project, which has caused a debate in the community about its suitability for this historic district.
Some residents worry that new development projects will deprive Valley Junction of its historical charm. KCCI spoke with residents and tourists at the auto show on Fifth Street on Sunday.
Tony Roese, a lifelong resident of West Des Moines, said: “The new building (takes away) is far from the historical aspects it was built, what it is, and what we are trying to maintain.” “I hope everything here The buildings are on the historical register, so they can’t even ask questions.”
James Berner, who lives in Waukee but frequently visits Valley Junction, said that he doesn’t think new development is a bad thing. “I think (Valley Junction) needs some revitalization, and I don’t think the height will hurt them here,” Bernard said. “You know, if you don’t grow, you can’t do anything.” said Clyde Evans, the city’s director of community and economic development. Officials hope that the public will continue to participate, especially as the city begins to adopt new ones. When taking measures, look at the long-standing master plan for the area, which has not been updated since 2016. “Now is a good time for us to see what is going well, what needs to be revised, and what needs to be improved to be added,” Evans said. Evans said the city has held a community meeting to discuss what residents want to see in the future of Valley Junction, and to listen to concerns about new developments and more future developments.
Evans said: “I think we want to try to fight-if possible-a win-win situation for everyone; we want to try to resolve everyone’s concerns.” “It really depends on the community to decide. What they want to see here.”
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Post time: Jun-12-2021