DES MOINES, Iowa — Invest DSM is moving forward with plans to create a mixed-use building in the Highland Park neighborhood.
The nonprofit announced Tuesday it has selected real estate firm Sonar Development Partners to develop, own and manage a building located at the southwest corner of 6th and Euclid Avenues.
The mixed-use building, dubbed The Commons at Highland Park, is expected to include apartments, as well as restaurant and retail space. Substance Architecture will design the project, while DCI Group, Inc. will construct the building.
"I’m excited to play a part in continuing the momentum building in this area. I am passionate about urban design and the impact it can have on a neighborhood. Our goal is to provide much-needed housing that compliments the character of the area and honors the history of the site and neighborhood," said Brian Clark, founder and president of Sonar Development Partners, in a press release.
The location was previously home to the Highland Apartments. Constructed in 1915, the building housed several different commercial businesses over the years before eventually being abandoned.
Invest DSM acquired the building and the land it stood on in hopes of renovating the property. However, the nonprofit eventually determined renovations were not economically viable.
The Des Moines City Council approved Invest DSM's request to demolish Highland Apartments in June 2023.
With plans now in motion to construct The Commons at Highland Park, Invest DSM Executive Director Amber Lynch looks forward to the continued prosperity of the neighborhood.
"Invest DSM has been heavily involved in the revitalization of this neighborhood and business district," she said in a statement. "We have seen the results with new businesses opening up and the increased demand for housing in this area."