Project Overview
The City of West Des Moines is excited to embark on the construction of a multi-purpose sports & entertainment venue with flexible space for sporting events, conventions, concerts, family shows, community gatherings, and more.
In addition to providing a much needed third sheet of ice, this expansion will allow the highly successful MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex and City of West Des Moines to better serve our community by attracting larger, more diverse events, and solidifying itself as a major tourism driver to central Iowa.
- Multi-purpose event arena with seating for 3,000 spectators
- 35,000 square feet of new event space
- Full service, state-of-the-art Grab & Go Market
- Performance training center
- Over 2,000 square feet of configurable meeting room space designed for corporate meetings, banquets and community gatherings
- 500 new parking stalls to ensure adequate capacity for all events
Ice & more!
The new Event Center will offer seating for up to 3,000 spectators, creating an electric atmosphere for major sporting events. With a fully convertible design, the venue expands to accommodate up to 4,000 guests for conventions, concerts, graduations, and other large-scale gatherings. This flexible, state-of-the-art space is built to elevate every event and serve as a premier destination for the entire region.
Grab & Go!
The new RP Market will bring a full-service grab-and-go experience to the RecPlex, offering hot foods, refreshing drinks, adult beverages, and convenient snacks. With a wide range of healthy and energizing options, it’s designed to keep guests fueled throughout their visit. Fast, fresh, and flexible, the RP Market will become a go-to stop for everyone in the expanded event center.
Welcoming Space
The new atrium welcomes guests with a warm, inviting atmosphere and a modern, open design. Its spacious layout creates a comfortable flow for gatherings, check-ins, and community interaction. Serving as the central hub of the expansion, this atrium sets the tone for an elevated experience throughout the entire center.
Sky Lounge
The Sky Lounge offers an intimate, climate-controlled setting perfect for special events of all kinds. When not reserved, it transforms into a relaxed hangout spot where guests can unwind with full bar service. Blending comfort and versatility, the Sky Lounge is poised to become one of the most memorable spaces in the new Event Center.
Project Timeline
- January 2025: City of West Des Moines City Council awarded Architectural & Engineering Services agreement to ISG Inc to begin design of the expansion
- April 2025: City of West Des Moines approves $26M in future Local Option Sales Tax funding to apply towards RecPlex expansion project
- May 2025: Schematic design of the expansion completed
- April 2026: Planned groundbreaking
- September 2027: Partial occupancy
- October 2027: Construction complete
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I contribute to the project?
Thank you for considering a pledge to the RecPlex expansion project. Pledges can be made through the Greater Des Moines Community Foundation by clicking the link here: RecPlex Expansion Pledge through Des Moines Community Foundation
Pledges can also be made directly to the City of West Des Moines by contacting RecPlex General Manager, Shayne Ratcliff at: Shayne.Ratcliff@wdm.iowa.gov or 515-440-4820
How will my contribution be recognized?
The new expansion will feature a prominent donor wall to highlight the public/private partnership needed to make a facility like this a reality.
Are there naming partnerships available?
The RecPlex currently has several naming partnerships available for both the new Event Center and the original RecPlex project. Naming partnerships are for a term of 15 years and the full contribution can be spread over multiple years.
When will the new event center open?
Construction is expected to start in spring 2026 with completion and occupancy scheduled for October 2027.
How is the expansion being funded?
The funding for the expansion will be a Public/Private partnership in the same manner as the first phase of the RecPlex. The City of West Des Moines has committed $36M in future Local Option Sales Tax revenues to the project and the remaining $21M will come from a combination of state/local grants, naming partnerships, and private contributions.
Where will the new building be constructed?
The expansion will be located on the east side of the current RecPlex in the parking lot directly adjacent to Rink #2.
Where will parking be located for the new building?
The City of West Des Moines has acquired a portion of the parcel directly to the east of the RecPlex for an overflow parking lot that will be directly connected to the RecPlex lot. The new lot will allow for an additional 500 stalls for RecPlex patrons.
How can I find more information?
Questions regarding the expansion design, funding, or partnership opportunities can be directed to:
Shayne Ratcliff, RecPlex General Manager – Shayne.Ratcliff@wdm.iowa.gov OR 515-440-4820