What's Happening?
Hometown Soccer Holdings has unveiled plans to bring a Major League Soccer (MLS) Next Pro team to Des Moines, accompanied by the construction of a new stadium near downtown. The proposal involves relocating the current MLS Next Pro team from Kansas City
to Des Moines. The planned stadium, with an estimated capacity of 6,000 seats, would be built on a surface parking lot north of the Principal Financial Group headquarters. Chris Klein, president of Hometown Soccer Holdings, highlighted Des Moines' strong sports culture and its support for existing teams like the Iowa Cubs, Iowa Wolves, and Iowa Wild as key factors in selecting the city. The estimated cost for the stadium construction is between $55 million and $65 million. This proposal emerges after previous talks between the city and Krause+ for a United Soccer League team and mixed-use district stalled. Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen stated the city is evaluating the proposal to ensure it aligns with the long-term vision for downtown revitalization.
Why It's Important?
This proposal represents a significant potential economic and cultural development for Des Moines. Bringing an MLS Next Pro team and a new stadium could inject substantial economic activity into the downtown area, creating jobs, attracting visitors, and stimulating further real estate development around the venue. The presence of a professional soccer team would enhance Des Moines' identity as a sports city, offering new entertainment options for residents and potentially drawing a broader fan base. This initiative could also serve as a catalyst for urban renewal, transforming underutilized land into a vibrant sports and entertainment hub. For the MLS Next Pro league, expanding into Des Moines signifies growth and a strategic move to tap into new markets, further developing the pipeline for professional soccer talent in the U.S. The project's success hinges on securing financial incentives and aligning with the city's broader development goals, making it a critical point for local stakeholders.
What's Next?
Hometown Soccer Holdings is actively seeking engagement from city, county, and state officials to move the project forward. The next steps involve detailed discussions with these stakeholders to finalize financial incentives and secure necessary approvals. Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen has indicated the city will thoroughly evaluate the proposal to ensure it aligns with the city's long-term vision for downtown development. An economic impact study for Des Moines is yet to be conducted, which will be crucial in assessing the project's potential benefits. Hometown Soccer Holdings aims to move quickly, expressing a desire to finalize a deal and begin construction. The group also plans to explore the development of the former Dico site for youth soccer fields and other sports, separate from the main stadium project. Discussions will also likely include the potential for bringing professional women's soccer to Des Moines.
Beyond the Headlines
The proposal for an MLS Next Pro team and stadium in Des Moines carries implications beyond immediate economic benefits and sports entertainment. It signifies a broader trend of professional sports leagues expanding into mid-sized U.S. cities, recognizing their growing economic vitality and fan bases. This development could transform Des Moines' urban landscape, creating a new focal point for community gathering and civic pride. The emphasis on integrating the stadium with existing downtown amenities, such as the arena and baseball park, suggests a strategic vision for a cohesive entertainment district, fostering a more dynamic urban experience. Furthermore, the potential for youth soccer development and women's professional soccer highlights a commitment to fostering sports at all levels and promoting gender equity in athletics. This project could serve as a model for urban development that leverages sports as a driver for economic growth, community engagement, and cultural enrichment, shaping the city's identity for decades to come.
