West Des Moines’ choices about development are a big part of what make this city a great place to live. They’re also an enormous and important part of the city’s budget, and one we should understand thoroughly. What financial returns are we getting for our current development patterns? What should we know as we consider new ways to grow in the future?

These are the issues examined and questions raised through Smart Growth America’s research into West Des Moines’ current development patterns and how the city could gain financially from growing in different ways. The research examines four different strategies for West Des Moines’ growth over the next 20 years, and analyzes the fiscal implications of each.

The research shows that the walkable urban scenario would generate an estimated total annual net fiscal impact of $11.2 million—$3.7 million more than the low density scenario. This estimate is conservative, and the benefit to the city could actually be even greater.

Click here for the full report by Smart Growth America.

The public is invited to a public presentation about this new research. Analysts from Smart Growth America will discuss their analysis of West Des Moines’ development and what it means for the city’s finances.

What: A presentation on the fiscal impact of different development patterns in West Des Moines

When: 7:30 – 9 a.m. Thursday, May 28

Where: West Des Moines City Hall (City Council Chambers), 4200 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines, IA

Who: Patrick Lynch, Research Director, Smart Growth America

West Des Moines was awarded this assistance, at no charge, as part of a grant program from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The study of development patterns is in keeping with the goal of creating a resilient regional economy as outlined in The Tomorrow Plan, the region’s plan for the sustainable development of Greater Des Moines over the next 40 years.