The City of West Des Moines has been awarded a $5 million Destination Iowa Grant from the Iowa Economic Development Authority to support the development of the City of West Des Moines Event Center at the MidAmerican Energy Center RecPlex, a major expansion that will bring new opportunities for sports, entertainment and community gatherings to the region.

The new Event Center, connected to the RecPlex, will add a versatile space designed to host a wide variety of events, from regional and national sporting competitions to concerts, conventions and community celebrations. With this expansion, West Des Moines strengthens its position as a premier destination for tourism, recreation and economic development in Iowa.

“This grant is a tremendous investment in the future of West Des Moines and our region,” said City Manager Tom Hadden. “The Event Center will not only attract visitors from across the state and Midwest, but it will also provide new amenities and opportunities for our residents. We’re grateful to Governor Reynolds and the Iowa Economic Development Authority for supporting this transformative project.”

The Event Center is expected to enhance the already strong economic impact of the RecPlex, which has quickly become a hub for youth and adult sports tournaments, recreational programming and special events since opening in 2021. The addition will bring new vibrancy to the community, generate tourism revenue and create lasting benefits for local businesses and residents.

Construction on the Event Center is anticipated to begin in the fall of 2025 with completion projected for early 2027. The total cost of the project is estimated at $40 million, with the City of West Des Moines contributing $26 million in future Local Option Sales and Service Tax (LOSST) revenue.

To date, $9.4 million has been pledged toward the $15 million fundraising goal. “The initial RecPlex project demonstrated the power of a successful public-private partnership, and the Event Center Expansion will be no different,” said Ryan Penning, Director of Parks and Recreation. “With several naming rights opportunities available, this project provides a unique way for local businesses to showcase their brand while supporting a facility that benefits the entire community. It’s truly a win-win for both our business partners and the RecPlex.”

For more information about the RecPlex and the Event Center expansion, visit www.TheRecPlex.com/Expansion.