After five years, we have a place to build.

Last Friday, Greater Des Moines Supportive Housing closed on two former extended-stay hotels. 

• 2701 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines will become an 89-unit campus. 
• 3940 114^th Street in Urbandale will become a 104-unit campus.

Both cities gave unanimous approval to the projects this summer, marking the end of a long search and the start of the real work.

Together, these campuses will provide stable, long-term homes and supportive services for nearly 200 people experiencing homelessness or housing instability in Polk County.

Our community’s Blueprint to Reduce Homeless in Polk County names this model as central to reducing homelessness across the region: preventing people from losing housing, expanding specialized services, and adding new units of supportive housing. These two campuses are our contribution to that plan.

What residents will find

Each resident will have a fully furnished studio apartment with a kitchenette and bathroom, a space that is their own. Beyond that, both campuses are built around connection: community and recreational spaces, on-site case management and counseling, life skills training, a pantry with food, clothing, and other household items, a commercial kitchen, a fitness center, and green spaces. Both campuses will have controlled access and 24-hour staffing.

We are not just building housing. We are building a place where people can belong.

What’s next

Renovation begins this fall, with residents expected to move in by late 2027. Combined project costs for both campuses are estimated at $29 million, funded through a combination of private and public sources, including a capital campaign now underway.

Five years ago, this was an idea. Today, it’s two addresses, a closing date, and a long list of people who refused to let it stay just an idea. 

More soon.

With overflowing gratitude,
Emily Osweiler