Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines is about to become a hub of excitement and entertainment with its planned hockey arena. The mall’s revitalisation plan has now secured significant tenants, including Drake University’s hockey team, the Iowa Demon Hawks indoor soccer team, and the Central Iowa Figure Skaters. This ambitious development, supported by both the City of Des Moines and Urbandale, is set to transform the space into a vibrant multi-purpose arena.
In this article, let’s break down the latest updates surrounding Merle Hay Mall’s major renovations, the new tenants, and the significant plans that could change the landscape of Des Moines and Urbandale for years to come.
Merle Hay Mall’s Hockey Arena Plan – A Game-Changer for Des Moines
After a few years of planning and setbacks, Merle Hay Mall is finally moving forward with its exciting transformation, which will include a 3,500-seat multi-use hockey arena. This modern facility isn’t just for hockey—it will host medium-sized performances, concerts, volleyball events, and indoor soccer, adding to the growing entertainment and sports scene in Des Moines and Urbandale.
The new hockey arena will be home to Drake University’s hockey team, a significant milestone for the school’s athletics program. In addition, the arena will house the Iowa Demon Hawks, a professional indoor soccer team, and the Central Iowa Figure Skaters. These tenants will bring a mix of high-energy sports and performances, further boosting the mall’s status as a central entertainment hub in central Iowa.
Key Tenants for the New Arena:
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Drake University’s Hockey Team
The mall’s hockey arena will become the official home for Drake University’s hockey team, providing them with state-of-the-art facilities. This move promises to elevate the university’s sports program and create more excitement for local college sports fans. -
Iowa Demon Hawks
Currently based at the Des Moines Buccaneers’ arena, the Iowa Demon Hawks will transition to the Merle Hay Mall arena. This professional indoor soccer team will bring more variety to the sports scene, attracting soccer fans from across the region. -
Central Iowa Figure Skaters
Another exciting addition is the Central Iowa Figure Skaters. With the new venue, these athletes will have access to a dedicated space for training and performances, contributing to the region’s growing interest in figure skating. -
Additional Tenants and Facilities
The application also mentions additional tenants that will use the arena’s gym. This versatile space will be outfitted for volleyball, allowing for further sporting events and activities. This flexible approach ensures the arena remains a sought-after destination for different types of events.
Exciting Developments Beyond the Arena:
Beyond the new arena, the broader transformation of Merle Hay Mall is set to change the face of the region. The mall will see the development of:
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Housing Projects: A new senior apartment complex will be created by converting the mall’s six-story office tower. This change will not only provide housing for seniors but also create a vibrant, mixed-use community.
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Hotel Development: Plans for a hotel are also in place, aimed at attracting visitors and tourists. The inclusion of both residential and hospitality elements speaks to the broader vision of revitalising the mall and creating a space that serves the community in more ways than one.
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Mall Improvements: The plan also includes unspecified upgrades to the mall and surrounding infrastructure. These improvements will likely address parking, retail spaces, and accessibility, enhancing the overall shopping and entertainment experience.
The Journey So Far – A Five-Year Saga
This development hasn’t been without its challenges. The original plan, unveiled in 2020, included the Des Moines Buccaneers as the primary tenants for the arena. However, after breaking ground on the project, the Bucs backed out in July 2024. The team has since moved to the MidAmerican Energy Co. RecPlex in West Des Moines, citing mechanical issues with their original arena.
Despite this setback, Liz Holland, CEO of the mall, remained committed to the project. In fact, she has been in discussions with nearly a dozen potential tenants, and the current roster of confirmed tenants is a testament to her perseverance and vision for the future of the mall.
State Funding and City Support
For the project to move forward, Merle Hay Mall requires support from both Des Moines and Urbandale. The Iowa Reinvestment Fund is expected to provide part of the funding, but before that can happen, the Des Moines City Council must vote on an amendment to the final application. Holland is optimistic that construction will begin later this year.
This collaboration between the two cities underscores the importance of this project and the broad community support it has garnered. Once completed, the project will bring significant economic and cultural benefits to the region, creating jobs, attracting visitors, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
Conclusion: Merle Hay Mall’s Transformation is Just the Beginning
The exciting plans for Merle Hay Mall are set to bring a new level of energy to Des Moines and Urbandale. With the Drake University hockey team, the Iowa Demon Hawks, and the Central Iowa Figure Skaters already signed on, this ambitious development is poised to become a significant sports and entertainment hub in the region.
The combination of a modern hockey arena, a hotel, residential housing, and other upgrades promises to revitalise the mall and surrounding areas, making it a central point for not only shopping but entertainment, sports, and leisure.
For sports fans, it’s time to get excited. The future of sports and entertainment in the region is here—and it’s happening at Merle Hay Mall.
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Photo credit: The Des Moines Register
