Regular gas: up versus yesterday

From yesterday to today, regular gas moved from $3.440/gal to $3.561/gal—a +$0.121 jump in the AAA metro average. That’s noticeable at the pump if you’re filling up right now, even though it’s still just an average across the metro.

Diesel: nearly flat versus yesterday

Diesel stayed steady in the same comparison window, drifting from $4.044/gal yesterday to $4.041/gal today (about – $0.003, essentially flat). For delivery routes and work trucks, that “no meaningful daily move” picture can be a relief—because fuel budgets often hate surprises more than they hate high prices.

Where prices stand: week, month, and year

Looking beyond today’s day-to-day change:

Compared with last week (AAA Des Moines metro averages): regular is $3.561 today vs $3.499 last week (+6.2¢), while diesel is $4.041 today vs $4.186 last week (-14.5¢).

Compared with last month: regular is $3.561 today vs $3.867 last month (-30.6¢), and diesel is $4.041 today vs $4.850 last month (-80.9¢).

Compared with last year: both are still higher—regular is up to $3.561 from $2.974 (+58.7¢), and diesel is up to $4.041 from $3.610 (+43.1¢).

What this means for Des Moines-area budgets

For commuters, today’s regular-gas uptick can add up if you’re filling up more than once a week (or if your route runs through parts of the metro with higher local retail prices). For contractors, delivery drivers, and other operations that rely heavily on diesel, the key story is steadiness: the daily diesel picture isn’t swinging much right now.

And even with diesel essentially flat versus yesterday, the bigger monthly comparison still matters—diesel is notably lower than it was a month ago, which can help businesses plan service calls, deliveries, and weekend jobs with less fuel-cost whiplash.

Quick tip for today

Because these are averages, not every station will match them—especially near metro edges. If you’re shopping for the best price, compare nearby options across the Des Moines area before committing to the first pump you see.

Question for readers: What are the highest and lowest pump prices you’re seeing right now in the Des Moines area for regular gas and for diesel?

Sources

• AAA Fuel Prices (Iowa) — Des Moines metro averages (Regular & Diesel, current/yesterday/week/month/year; Price as of 7/1/26)
• EIA Weekly Retail Gasoline and Diesel Prices (U.S.) — latest week shown through 06/29/26

No final decisions have been made. City leaders are still weighing options, and the discussion is focused on how to close the gap without making the same kind of cut across every department.

What is being discussed

Recent local reporting says Gray’s Lake parking fees are being considered as one possible way to raise revenue. Library service reductions are also being discussed, but the city has not finalized which departments or services would change.

The financial picture is what is pushing the conversation. Des Moines is projecting a $12 million shortfall in fiscal year 2028, followed by another $5 million gap in fiscal year 2029.

Why city officials say the pressure is building

City officials have linked the budget strain to Iowa’s new property-tax law, signed May 18, 2026. Iowa Public Radio reported that the law caps city and county general revenue growth at 2%, which officials say is part of the pressure on Des Moines finances.

The governor’s office said the law is intended to provide property-tax relief. Des Moines leaders, meanwhile, are treating it as part of a longer budgeting squeeze that needs to be addressed before the shortfalls arrive.

What happens next

Residents are expected to hear more through public budget meetings later this summer and an online survey. For now, the main takeaway is that Gray’s Lake parking fees and library cuts are still proposals, not adopted policy.

That matters for park users, library patrons, commuters, and taxpayers because the city is deciding whether to use new fees, service reductions, or a mix of both to close a growing future gap.

Sources

• KCCI: Des Moines weighs Gray’s Lake parking fees, library cuts
• Iowa Public Radio: Des Moines prepares for budget shortfall after property-tax law
• Office of the Governor: Reynolds signs property-tax relief law

In practical terms, the ban blocks routine watering of established lawns and most landscape irrigation. CIWW’s guidance allows only limited watering for newly seeded or newly sodded lawns, and some sports turf and golf-course areas may be irrigated at the minimum level needed for plant health and safe use. That makes the rule relevant for homeowners, landlords, property managers, commercial properties, and city crews.

CIWW says the reason is not simply a hot-weather conservation measure. Elevated nitrate levels in the source-water system have put pressure on treatment capacity, forcing the utility to manage demand while it keeps drinking water within required standards. The utility has said the ban is tied to water-quality strain, not just inconvenience.

The geographic impact is broader than Des Moines proper. The restriction covers much of the metro service area, so residents in nearby communities may be subject to the same rules even if they do not live inside the city limits.

Officials have not set a firm end date, and recent reporting and CIWW updates indicate the ban could continue if nitrate levels do not improve. For now, the best resident move is simple: check the current CIWW watering rules before turning on sprinklers or scheduling irrigation work.

Sources

• CIWW explainer: why the lawn watering ban is in place
• Radio Iowa report on the mandatory watering ban

That matters for commuters, students, medical riders and people who depend on transit for errands or work. DART’s live launch page says the new system uses 10 main routes. In an April press release, the agency said current bus routes would be replaced with 11 routes. The bottom line for riders is the same: check the new map before assuming your old stop or transfer still works.

What changed

DART says four corridors will have 15-minute service, and weekend service, especially on Sundays, is better than before. Axios Des Moines reported the redesign as a cut from 27 fixed routes to 10, along with the removal of about 900 of the system’s 1,600 bus stops.

The biggest impact will fall on riders who use DART to get to work, school, health care appointments and grocery stores. Some trips should be simpler and faster on core corridors, but riders away from those main streets may need to walk farther or rebuild their transfer plans.

Free rides through June 30

DART says bus routes are free from June 14 through June 30 as riders adjust to the new network. Fares resume on July 1. The free-ride offer applies to bus routes only; Paratransit and DART On Demand still collect fares during that period.

For Des Moines-area residents, the change is more than a transit shuffle. It is a practical update to how people get to work, class, appointments and errands across the metro this summer.

Sources

• DART — New Ways to Move: Starting June 14
• Axios Des Moines — DART's new bus network launches Sunday with 17 fewer routes

The agency says four corridors now have 15-minute service, bus stops are spaced farther apart — about every three to four blocks — and transfers at DART Central Station are timed to speed up many trips. DART also says riders should use the new route maps, schedules and stop information before they leave home, since some walks to the bus and some connection times will change under the new system.

Who will notice it first

Transit-dependent riders are likely to feel the shift first, especially people who use DART to get to work. DART says about 60% of riders use the system for work trips, and the agency says that matters for hospitals, schools, grocery stores and other businesses that rely on transit access. The new route network still connects major destinations such as Drake University, DMACC Urban Campus, Broadlawns Medical Center, Mercy One, the Iowa State Capitol and Southridge Mall, but not every trip will look the same as before.

DART says all bus routes are free through June 30, giving regular riders and occasional riders a little time to test the new system. The main takeaway for anyone who rides DART is simple: check the new route before you go, because the change is already in effect.

Sources

• DART launch page: New Ways to Move — Starting June 14
• Axios Des Moines coverage of the launch

The council communication directs city staff to receive and file the developer-initiated proposal and negotiate preliminary terms for a commercial office building at 401 Robert D. Ray Drive. The proposal calls for a five-story building of about 70,000 square feet on the city-owned parcel.

What the June 8 action does

This was a negotiation step, not a final development approval. The council communication says staff will return later with preliminary terms for a development agreement, and it says the site will also go through a competitive disposition process with a future hearing and a 30-day window for competing proposals.

That matters because the site sits in the East Village across from the vacant former City Hall, making it one of the more visible city-owned parcels in downtown Des Moines. If the proposal moves forward, it would add another office use to a corridor where the city is trying to guide redevelopment of former municipal property.

What is being proposed

According to the city’s council communication, Heart of America is considering mass timber construction and would anticipate using 15,000 to 20,000 square feet for its headquarters if the project advances. The rest of the building’s tenant mix has not been finalized in the public materials.

Heart of America’s website shows an operations support center in Des Moines and Tempo, its East Village residential project, but that background does not mean this headquarters deal is complete.

What happens next

The immediate question is whether city staff and Heart of America can agree on preliminary terms detailed enough to return to council. Later steps still need to happen, including a hearing, the competitive disposition process, and additional council action before the city could approve a purchase agreement or final development terms.

For residents and nearby property owners, the practical takeaway is simple: the June 8 action keeps the project alive, but it remains early in the process. The building is not approved, the land is not sold, and the final shape of the project is still subject to negotiation and public review.

Sources

• Des Moines City Council Communication 26-204
• Axios Des Moines: Heart of America eyes East Village for a new HQ

Transit changes move toward June launch

DART says all bus routes will change in June, with current routes staying in place through June 13. The agency says the new network will center on 10 main routes, updated schedules and stop-change lists will be posted by April 30, and rider help events are planned for May. DART also says some stops, especially closer to downtown, will be removed or relocated as service is consolidated.

Downtown housing conversion remains on track

The city has approved amended terms for the redevelopment of 601 Locust, where an existing office building is still planned to become a 221-unit apartment project with commercial space on the skywalk level. City documents put the updated project cost at $76.2 million, move the completion target to December 2028, and require at least 10% of the units to meet an affordable rent standard tied to area median income. (councildocs.dsm.city)

Marathon Loop stays in the metro pipeline

West Des Moines continues to present the Marathon Loop as a long-range recreation and mobility project. The city says the planned trail will create a 26.2-mile loop connecting Valley View Park, Southwoods Park, Raccoon River Park and future parkland, and that the overall loop is already 48% complete. Recent reporting also indicates city staff are seeking budget support for trail connections needed to finish more of that loop.

Public health data is easier to browse

Residents tracking health trends also have a clearer set of cancer data tools to work with. The University of Iowa registry hosts a statewide dashboard and links to mapping tools for smaller areas, while the state health department publishes site-specific cancer data and background on environmental risk factors.

Sources

https://www.ridedart.com/newroutes
https://councildocs.dsm.city/communications/2026/26-097.pdf
https://www.wdm.iowa.gov/government/parks-recreation/five-waters-project/3-marathon-loop
https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/23/west-des-moines-builds-marathon-loop
https://shri.public-health.uiowa.edu/data-dashboard/
https://hhs.iowa.gov/about/data-reports/cancer

Abortion Ban Bill Stalls at the Capitol

An Iowa House Republican proposal that would have banned nearly all abortions will not move forward this year, according to legislative leaders. The decision effectively halts one of the most closely watched bills of the session.

While supporters argued the measure was needed to further restrict abortion access, opponents said it would have faced significant legal challenges and public pushback. For now, existing state law remains in place, offering some stability as lawmakers continue to debate health policy and the scope of state authority.

New Cancer Mapping Tool Highlights Local Trends

A new statewide data tool is giving Des Moines-area residents a closer look at cancer rates by ZIP code. Developed to increase transparency and improve public health planning, the platform allows users to explore patterns that were previously difficult to see at the neighborhood level.

Health officials say the tool can help communities identify disparities, guide prevention efforts, and support funding decisions. By breaking data down geographically, local leaders and nonprofits may be better equipped to target screenings and outreach programs where they are needed most.

February Heat Rewrites the Record Books

Des Moines also made climate headlines this week after setting multiple record high temperatures in February. The city reached 68 degrees on one recent day, breaking a record that had stood since 1981.

Meteorologists say the unusually warm stretch marks one of the more notable late-winter heat events in the city’s history. The cluster of record highs adds to a broader pattern of warmer-than-average winter temperatures, raising fresh questions about long-term climate trends and impacts on agriculture and energy demand.

Why It Matters

From public health data tools to shifting legislative priorities and extreme weather, the past few days underscore how policy, environment, and local data intersect in Des Moines. As the legislative session continues and spring approaches, residents can expect more decisions that shape the city’s health, economy, and future growth.

Sources

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2026/02/16/iowa-house-gop-bill-banning-all-abortions-wont-advance-this-year/

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/health/2026/02/16/new-iowa-tool-maps-cancer-rates-by-zip-code/

https://www.weareiowa.com/article/weather/des-moines-notches-multiple-february-record-highs-extending-recent-pattern-of-clus

https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/february-heat-des-moines-sets-another-temperature-record-monday/ar-AA1WtY

Historic Winter Warmth Raises Climate Questions

February closed with multiple temperature records in Des Moines, including a 68-degree day that broke a record set in 1981. Meteorologists say the city logged several record highs during an unusually warm late-winter stretch.

While the warmth offered a brief preview of spring, climate observers note the clustering of winter records fits a broader pattern seen in recent years. Warmer winters can affect everything from road maintenance budgets to agriculture planning and utility demand forecasts.

Ankeny Airport Plans Runway Expansion

North of the metro, Ankeny Regional Airport is preparing for a runway extension designed to accommodate larger private and corporate jets. Local leaders say the project will strengthen central Iowa’s appeal to business travelers and corporate investment.

The expansion reflects continued population and economic growth in the Des Moines metro area. Infrastructure upgrades like this often serve as early signals of broader development activity tied to logistics, advanced manufacturing, and executive travel.

Lawmakers Weigh Rules for Hydrogen Exploration

At the Statehouse, lawmakers are considering updated regulations for geological hydrogen exploration. Interest in naturally occurring hydrogen deposits has grown, prompting discussion about permitting, environmental safeguards, and landowner protections.

Supporters argue clear rules could position Iowa competitively in an emerging clean-energy sector. Others emphasize the need for careful oversight to balance economic opportunity with environmental and agricultural concerns.

Why It Matters

Together, these developments highlight how Des Moines sits at the intersection of climate trends, infrastructure investment, and energy innovation. From record-setting temperatures to airport upgrades and potential hydrogen drilling, policy decisions made this year could shape the region’s economic trajectory for years to come.

Sources

https://www.weareiowa.com/article/weather/des-moines-notches-multiple-february-record-highs-extending-recent-pattern-of-clustered-warmth/

https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/february-heat-des-moines-sets-another-temperature-record-monday/ar-AA1WtY

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/local/ankeny/2026/02/16/ankeny-airport-expansion/88605529007/

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/money/agriculture/2026/02/17/iowa-legislature-geological-hydrogen/88711583007/

Transit redesign moves toward funding hearing

The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority is preparing for a public hearing on April 13 as it seeks state and federal transit funding for fiscal year 2027. The request comes as DART continues planning for a major network redesign set to roll out in phases beginning this summer.

The redesigned system aims to streamline routes, improve frequency on core corridors and introduce microtransit zones in select areas later in 2026. Transit leaders say the changes are designed to stretch limited dollars while maintaining service across the region.

$700K park restroom proposal sparks debate

In neighboring West Des Moines, a proposed $700,000 restroom facility near the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater is drawing attention as part of the city’s upcoming capital improvements budget.

Parks officials say the permanent facility would replace rented portable restrooms and better serve the more than 100,000 annual visitors who use nearby trails and attend events. At least one council member has questioned the cost, calling for a closer look at design and spending before final approval.

Statewide health awards open for nominations

The Iowa Healthiest State Initiative announced this week that nominations are open for its 2026 annual awards. The program recognizes individuals making measurable impacts on physical, social and mental well-being across Iowa.

Applications opened March 30 and will remain available through early May. Organizers say the awards highlight community-driven solutions to public health challenges, an issue that continues to intersect with local education, workforce and neighborhood development efforts.

Looking ahead

With budget season underway across central Iowa, transportation funding, park infrastructure investments and public health programming are all competing priorities. Public hearings and council discussions in the coming weeks will help determine how those dollars are allocated heading into the next fiscal year.

Sources

https://www.ridedart.com/
https://www.reimaginedartdsm.com/
https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/30/west-des-moines-bathroom-jamie-hurd
https://www.iowahealthieststate.com/news/2026-annual-awards-now-open

K-12 Funding Pressure Builds at Statehouse

Iowa school leaders are pressing lawmakers for additional K-12 funding as budget negotiations continue. District officials say rising operational costs, staffing shortages, and transportation expenses are outpacing current state allocations.

Administrators warn that without a boost, districts may face program cuts, larger class sizes, or deferred maintenance projects. Lawmakers are weighing funding increases against broader state budget priorities as the legislative session moves into its final stretch.

Abortion Ban Proposal Stalls

A proposal from Iowa House Republicans that would have banned nearly all abortions will not advance this year. Legislative leaders confirmed the measure lacks the support needed to move forward during the current session.

The decision narrows the scope of high-profile policy battles at the Capitol, though broader debates over health policy and state authority remain active.

Record Warmth Raises Infrastructure Questions

Des Moines recently set multiple February temperature records, part of an unusually warm late-winter stretch. The city reached the upper 60s during one of the record-breaking days, continuing a pattern of clustered warmth.

City planners and public works officials are closely monitoring how extended warm periods affect road maintenance cycles, stormwater systems, and seasonal budgeting for snow and ice operations. While short-term savings on snow removal are possible, fluctuating freeze-thaw cycles can increase pavement damage and long-term repair costs.

With spring construction season approaching, city departments are reviewing timelines and cost projections influenced by shifting weather patterns.

Looking Ahead

As lawmakers debate funding priorities and city departments adjust to climate variability, budget decisions made in the coming weeks could shape education services, infrastructure maintenance, and public health policy well into the next fiscal year.

Sources

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2026/02/17/we-need-help-iowa-schools-plead-for-boost-as-gop-eyes-k-12-funding/

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2026/02/16/iowa-house-gop-bill-banning-all-abortions-wont-advance-this-year/

https://www.weareiowa.com/article/weather/des-moines-notches-multiple-february-record-highs-extending-recent-pattern-of-clustered-warmth/

School Funding Pressures

Iowa school leaders, including those serving Des Moines Public Schools, are urging lawmakers to boost K-12 funding as state budget talks continue. District officials say rising costs for staffing, transportation and student services are outpacing current funding levels.

The debate at the Statehouse could have direct implications for class sizes, program offerings and property tax pressures in Polk County. Local administrators have warned that without additional support, districts may face difficult budget adjustments in the next fiscal year.

Housing and Walkable Development

In West Des Moines, city officials are advancing plans for a more walkable district near Valley West Mall. The proposal aims to encourage mixed-use redevelopment, blending housing, retail and public gathering spaces.

Leaders say the shift reflects changing consumer habits and housing demand, with a focus on density and long-term economic vitality. The project is part of a broader regional push to modernize aging commercial corridors and attract private investment.

Record Warmth Raises Climate Questions

Des Moines recently logged multiple record-high temperatures during an unusually warm February stretch, including a day that reached the upper 60s. Weather officials note that clustered winter warmth events are becoming more common in the city’s historical records.

While short-term fluctuations are normal, the pattern has implications for infrastructure planning, energy demand and seasonal agriculture. City planners and utilities often rely on long-term climate data when forecasting maintenance needs and budgeting for snow removal, road repairs and stormwater systems.

Together, these developments highlight how education funding, redevelopment strategy and climate trends are shaping the metro’s policy and economic outlook this spring.

Sources

• https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMi1wFBVV95cUxNbndPXzFjTF9SdUxrcFA0cktaLTBOQzQ2NENlRnlTV3VraVB5VWNL
• https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMinwJBVV95cUxOdk12TmFtZnFvdVJNM2wwaGV4WDJ5aDdwSGV6LXBDTkxfaVdzT0
• https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/february-heat-des-moines-sets-another-temperature-record-monday/ar-AA1WtY
• https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiuAFBVV95cUxNcXprVVNuVTdhTXY4SVRJMFkxOERNUFpma0NXcjZwRVVDMmJvY

School Funding Pressures Mount

Local education leaders are urging lawmakers to increase K-12 funding as districts finalize staffing and programming plans for the next school year. Administrators say rising operational costs, from transportation to utilities, are outpacing current state allocations.

School officials warn that without additional support, districts may face larger class sizes or delayed facility improvements. The debate comes as state lawmakers continue broader budget negotiations that will shape education spending across Iowa.

Downtown Housing and Economic Development

City officials are also reviewing new proposals aimed at expanding downtown housing. Developers are pitching mixed-use projects designed to convert underused office space into residential units, part of a broader strategy to strengthen the urban core.

Housing advocates say increasing supply is key to stabilizing rental prices and attracting workforce talent. City leaders are weighing potential incentives, including tax increment financing, to help move projects forward while balancing long-term revenue impacts.

Transit and Infrastructure Updates

Momentum is building behind proposed transit upgrades, including service adjustments and infrastructure improvements intended to improve reliability and expand access. Transportation planners say ridership trends and population growth are guiding the next phase of investment.

Meanwhile, ongoing infrastructure discussions include road maintenance funding and utility modernization, both central to the city’s capital improvement plan.

Why It Matters

Together, these decisions reflect a broader focus on sustainable growth. Education funding, housing development, and transportation planning all intersect with workforce recruitment, economic competitiveness, and long-term fiscal health.

As budget talks continue into early April, residents can expect more detailed proposals and public discussions before final votes are scheduled.

Sources

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/education/2026/03/28/iowa-school-funding-debate/

https://www.weareiowa.com/article/money/development/downtown-des-moines-housing-proposal/

https://www.kcci.com/article/des-moines-transit-infrastructure-update/

$5 Million Budget Request

The city’s Parks and Recreation Department is requesting roughly $5 million in the upcoming fiscal budget to fund 15 projects tied to the proposed Marathon Loop. About 14 miles of the route are already in place, with additional segments planned over the next one to two years.

The goal is to create a seamless trail system that links existing greenways, parks and recreational facilities across West Des Moines. City staff say a defined loop offers a more attractive experience for runners, cyclists and families compared to out-and-back trail segments.

Key Connections

Among the priority projects is a 1.5-mile Raccoon River East Greenway segment that would connect Raccoon River Park to the First Street Recreation Area. Another proposal would help fund a one-mile trail linking the Athene Pedestrian Bridge to the Great Western Trail.

That connection would require negotiations with private landowners, with current funding aimed at design and land acquisition. Construction costs would be addressed in future budget cycles.

Improvements at Valley View Park are also included, such as internal road connections to improve access between sports courts and the aquatic center.

Economic and Community Impact

City officials frame the Marathon Loop as more than a recreational amenity. Expanded trail infrastructure can support property values, attract new residents and employers, and strengthen Central Iowa’s reputation for outdoor access.

With regional trail systems already drawing significant annual use, leaders say completing the southern portion of the loop — which includes a planned bridge and additional land acquisition — will be critical to realizing the full economic and community benefit.

Sources

https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/23/west-des-moines-builds-marathon-loop

City Budget Moves Forward

A draft of the City of Des Moines’ recommended operating budget for fiscal years 2026-27 is now public, outlining spending priorities across core services such as public safety, public works, parks, and neighborhood services. The proposal, prepared by the city manager and finance team, will guide funding decisions for the coming year.

While final numbers may shift before adoption, the document sets the tone for how the city plans to balance service demands with revenue from property taxes, fees, and state support. Council review and public input are expected as the budget process continues this spring.

Regional Trail Investment Gains Momentum

Just west of Des Moines, West Des Moines officials are seeking roughly $5 million in upcoming budget allocations to help complete a 26.2-mile Marathon Loop connecting parks and existing trails. Fourteen miles are already in place, with additional segments and bridge work proposed.

For the metro area, expanded trail connectivity supports recreation, property values, and tourism while reinforcing Central Iowa’s reputation as a biking and running hub. Regional trail systems often tie directly into Des Moines’ broader parks and riverfront network.

Airport Terminal Project Advances

At Des Moines International Airport, work continues toward a new terminal expected to open in 2026. The project will initially feature 18 gates and significantly expand passenger capacity.

Airport officials have also advanced related infrastructure improvements, including upgraded de-icing facilities. Together, the investments are designed to accommodate population growth, business travel, and expanded air service — all key pieces of the region’s economic development strategy.

Why It Matters

From the city budget to transportation and recreation infrastructure, these initiatives reflect a metro area positioning itself for long-term growth. As council members debate spending priorities and regional partners pursue capital projects, residents can expect continued focus on livability, connectivity, and economic competitiveness.

Sources

https://cms2.revize.com/revize/cityofdesmoines/FY26.FY27%20Combined%20Budget%20Book%20Document%20Draft%203.pdf?t=202602111506510
https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/23/west-des-moines-builds-marathon-loop
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Des_Moines_International_Airport

Marathon Loop Proposal

Parks and Recreation staff have requested roughly $5 million in the upcoming fiscal year budget to support 15 separate projects designed to close gaps between existing trails and parks. When complete, the so-called Marathon Loop would give runners, cyclists and walkers a full circuit across the city without retracing their steps.

About 14 miles of the loop are already in place. The remaining segments would be built in phases, with four additional miles targeted over the next year or two if funding is approved.

Key Connections

Among the proposed projects is a 1.5-mile Raccoon River East Greenway segment connecting Raccoon River Park to the new First Street Recreation Area. Another priority is a one-mile link from the Athene Pedestrian Bridge to the Great Western Trail near the golf course.

That Great Western connection would require negotiations with private landowners. Current funding would cover design and land acquisition, with construction dollars expected to follow in a later budget cycle.

Improvements are also planned for Valley View Park, including a new internal road to better connect the aquatic center and sports courts.

What It Means for the Region

While the proposal sits just west of Des Moines city limits, the regional trail network continues to function as shared infrastructure across Polk County. Expanded connectivity can ease car trips for short distances, support tourism events and add long-term value to surrounding neighborhoods.

The City Council will consider the funding request as part of broader budget deliberations this spring.

Sources

https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/23/west-des-moines-builds-marathon-loop

Marathon Loop Trail Proposed in West Des Moines

West Des Moines city staff are moving forward with an ambitious plan to create a 26.2-mile loop trail connecting parks and existing pathways across the city.

The proposal includes roughly $5 million in parks and recreation funding requests in the upcoming fiscal budget. Projects range from new trail connectors near Raccoon River Park to a potential link between the Athene Pedestrian Bridge and the Great Western Trail.

City officials say about 14 miles of the loop are already complete, with additional segments planned over the next couple of years. Some portions — especially on the south side — would require land acquisition and bridge construction before the full loop becomes reality.

If approved, the project would give runners and cyclists a continuous route the length of a marathon, while improving connectivity between neighborhoods and green spaces.

NWS Releases Updated Tornado Survey

The National Weather Service has issued updated findings from the March 10–12 tornado outbreak that affected parts of Iowa and the Midwest.

In southeast Iowa, confirmed EF1 tornadoes in Lee County caused structural damage to farm buildings, snapped trees and destroyed outbuildings. The updated survey, released March 24, refines path lengths and impact details following additional field analysis.

While central Iowa avoided the worst of that outbreak, emergency managers say the updated report is a reminder that severe weather season is arriving earlier than many residents expect.

With spring now underway, local officials continue urging residents to review safety plans and stay weather-aware.

Sources

https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/23/west-des-moines-builds-marathon-loop
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tornado_outbreak_of_March_10%E2%80%9312%2C_2026

Greyhound Adds New Daily Routes

Des Moines travelers now have two new direct bus options. Greyhound this week introduced daily routes connecting the city to St. Louis and Indianapolis. Each route runs once per day in both directions, seven days a week.

The service is supported in part by a federal grant administered through the Iowa DOT, helping offset operating costs. Local leaders say the added connections expand affordable travel options for central Iowans and strengthen ties to other Midwest hubs.

March Madness Energy Downtown

Wells Fargo Arena has been a focal point this weekend as college basketball fans pour into downtown for tournament play. With games scheduled March 21 and 23, hotels, restaurants and skywalk traffic have all seen an uptick.

City parking garages reported steady use, and free shuttle options from nearby lots helped ease congestion. The tournament atmosphere has added extra buzz to Court Avenue and the East Village, giving downtown a welcome economic boost.

Warm Weather Brings Crowds Outdoors

Adding to the excitement, unseasonably warm temperatures near 80 degrees on Saturday sent residents outdoors. Parks such as Water Works, Walnut Woods and the Downtown Sculpture Park saw steady foot traffic, while patios and dog-friendly spots filled up quickly.

Community event calendars were packed, and locals shared plans for everything from brewery visits to hockey and live music. After a long winter stretch, the sudden taste of spring made for one of the busiest March weekends in recent memory.

Sources

https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/19/new-greyhound-routes-st-louis-indianapolis-dot
https://www.reddit.com/r/desmoines/comments/1rxidl5/march_21st/
https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1/clients/desmoines/Downtown_Map_Small_c138fd7d-6897-4175-a710-1f6433d92959.pdf

Des Moines is still talking about February’s remarkable warm streak. The city logged multiple record high temperatures during the month, including a 68-degree day that broke a standing record set in 1981. What’s typically one of the coldest stretches of the year instead felt more like early spring.

Weather experts say this run now ranks among the most notable late-winter warm periods in local climate history. The clustering of record highs in a single month has made February 2026 stand out in long-term weather records.

The spring preview won’t last indefinitely. Forecasters say a cooldown is on the way, with temperatures sliding back into the 30s and even the possibility of light snow by the end of the week. For now, it’s a reminder of how quickly Iowa weather can pivot.

All-Out Abortion Ban Will Not Advance This Session

At the Iowa Statehouse, a proposal from House Republicans that would have banned nearly all abortions will not move forward this legislative session. Lawmakers confirmed the measure failed to advance before a key procedural deadline.

That decision leaves Iowa’s current abortion restrictions in place for now. Supporters and opponents alike had been closely watching the bill, which would have marked a significant policy shift.

While the proposal is off the table for this year, the broader debate is far from settled. The issue remains politically charged and could return in a future session.

West Des Moines Shooting Under Investigation

Police in West Des Moines are continuing to investigate a shooting that left one person hospitalized earlier this week. Authorities say the victim was taken to a local hospital with injuries. No additional details about the victim’s condition have been released.

Investigators have not announced any suspects or arrests. Officers are working to piece together what led up to the shooting and are asking anyone with information to come forward.

The investigation remains active as officials seek clarity on the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Sources

• https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/february-heat-des-moines-sets-another-temperature-record-monday/ar-AA1WtY
• https://www.weareiowa.com/article/weather/des-moines-notches-multiple-february-record-highs-extending-recent-pattern-of-clus
• https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMizwFBVV95cUxNNF9nQjhhaVlBUXFzZFNoS08tS001V0tNeExTVHJEX2ZjUlp5QW1La
• https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiigFBVV95cUxPSHJlSS10NnBreVRTX3dwNFFYbEdFR0VHU3poMDdxaWFYZkI4M3R

Des Moines Breaks Another February Heat Record

Des Moines hit 68 degrees on Monday, breaking a temperature record that had stood since 1981. It marks the city’s third record high of 2026 during what meteorologists are calling an unusually warm late-winter stretch.

Forecasters say the spring-like warmth will linger briefly before temperatures cool back into the 30s later this week, with a chance of light snow. The cluster of record highs has placed February 2026 among the more notable warm periods in the city’s climate history.

Iowa House Abortion Ban Bill Won’t Advance

A proposal from Iowa House Republicans that would have banned nearly all abortions will not move forward this legislative session. Legislative leaders confirmed the bill lacks the support needed to advance this year.

The decision comes during the busy funnel period at the Statehouse, when many bills fail to meet procedural deadlines. Lawmakers are continuing to debate other health care and regulatory measures as the session moves deeper into spring.

Person Hospitalized After West Des Moines Shooting

West Des Moines police are investigating a shooting that left one person hospitalized. Officers responded to reports of gunfire and located a victim who was transported for medical treatment. Authorities have not released additional details about a suspect.

The investigation remains active as officers work to determine what led up to the incident.

Plans Advance for Walkable District Near Valley West Mall

In development news, West Des Moines city leaders are proposing a new walkable district near Valley West Mall. The concept includes mixed-use buildings, housing and pedestrian-friendly spaces aimed at revitalizing the area.

City officials say the proposal is part of a broader effort to reshape aging retail corridors into more community-centered destinations.

Sources

https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/february-heat-des-moines-sets-another-temperature-record-monday/ar-AA1WtY
https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2026/02/16/iowa-house-gop-bill-banning-all-abortions-wont-advance-this-year/
https://www.kcci.com/article/person-hospitalized-after-shooting-in-west-des-moines-police-investigating/
https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/west-des-moines-proposes-walkable-district-near-valley-west-mall/

A person was hospitalized following a shooting in West Des Moines late Sunday, and police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Officers responded to reports of gunfire and located an individual with injuries at the scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. As of Monday, authorities have not released additional information about a potential suspect or what may have led up to the shooting.

Police have indicated there is no ongoing threat to the public. Investigators remain at work gathering details and asking anyone with information to come forward as they piece together what happened.

Iowa House GOP Abortion Ban Bill Won’t Advance

A proposal in the Iowa House that would have banned nearly all abortions will not move forward during this legislative session.

Republican lawmakers confirmed the measure does not have enough support to advance this year, effectively shelving one of the most closely watched debates at the Statehouse. The bill had drawn significant public attention and sparked strong reactions from both supporters and opponents.

While the issue remains a focal point in Iowa politics, the decision means no further action on the proposal is expected in the current session. For now, lawmakers are turning their attention to other legislative priorities as the session continues.

Des Moines Breaks Another February Heat Record

Des Moines continues to experience an unusually warm stretch for late winter, with the city setting another record high temperature on Monday.

The metro reached 68 degrees, surpassing a previous record set in 1981. It marks the third record high temperature recorded in 2026 so far, adding to what meteorologists describe as a notable and clustered period of warmth.

Forecasters say the spring-like conditions may not last. Cooler air is expected to move into the region later this week, bringing temperatures back down into the 30s. There is also the possibility of a few flakes of snow before the week wraps up, a reminder that winter is not quite finished yet.

Sources

• https://www.kcci.com/article/person-hospitalized-after-shooting-in-west-des-moines-police-investigating/
• https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2026/02/16/iowa-house-gop-bill-banning-all-abortions-wont-advance-this-year/
• https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/february-heat-des-moines-sets-another-temperature-record-monday/

First Tornadoes of 2026 Confirmed

The National Weather Service confirmed that storms on March 10 produced Iowa’s first two tornadoes of 2026. Both were rated EF-1 and touched down in Lee County in southeast Iowa.

While the tornadoes were outside the metro, the same system brought strong winds and large hail across parts of central Iowa. No injuries were reported from the tornadoes, but officials continue reviewing storm reports from Tuesday’s severe weather.

National Guard Soldiers Welcomed Home

More than 500 Iowa National Guard soldiers returned home this week following deployment in the Middle East. A welcome home ceremony was held Thursday afternoon at the 132nd Air Wing at Des Moines International Airport.

The soldiers were part of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, and had been deployed since May in support of operations in Iraq and Syria. Families gathered with signs, flags, and cheers as troops reunited with loved ones.

Serious Crash in Beaverdale

Two people were seriously injured in a head-on collision Tuesday morning in Des Moines’ Beaverdale neighborhood. The crash happened along Douglas Avenue between 34th and 36th streets.

Both drivers were taken to local hospitals. The roadway was temporarily closed while emergency crews responded and has since reopened. Police continue investigating the cause of the crash.

State Tournament Thriller in Des Moines

High school basketball fans at Wells Fargo Arena saw a dramatic double-overtime semifinal Wednesday night. ADM defeated Storm Lake 72-70 after a back-and-forth battle that stretched into two extra periods.

The matchup was part of the Class 3A state tournament hosted in Des Moines, drawing fans from across Iowa for one of the most exciting games of the week.

Sources

https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/nws-confirms-2-tornadoes-southeast-002415018.html
https://www.kcrg.com/2026/03/11/more-than-500-iowa-national-guard-soldiers-return-home-thursday-middle-east-deployment/
https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/serious-injuries-reported-beaverdale-head-162430179.html
https://www.ktiv.com/2026/03/12/tornadoes-go-two-overtimes-fall-adm-state-semifinals/