Urbandale City Council reviews Murrell Hay Mall reinvestment plan amendment

Urbandale City Council has taken a significant step towards revitalizing the Merle Hay Mall area by approving an amendment to the Iowa Reinvestment Act plan during their recent meeting on April 15, 2025. The amendment, presented by Economic Development Director Aaron DeYoung, aims to transform the original proposal of a four-sheet hockey arena into a multi-use sports facility that will include a volleyball training and competition center, alongside existing pickleball facilities.

The council's approval is crucial as it allows the city to move forward with the necessary adjustments to the project scope and conditions, which were initially set in 2022 when the city received a $26.5 million award in future sales tax and lodging tax rebates from the state. DeYoung clarified that these funds are not a grant but rather a rebate based on future growth within the designated district.

The revised plan includes retaining the arena within the former Yonkers property while introducing a volleyball facility to cater to local and competitive training needs. The council also discussed the need for a new hotel and additional retail spaces as part of the mall's revitalization efforts. However, there is a request to remove the obligation to develop the Merle Hay Tower, which has faced challenges in attracting developers.

In addition to the Merle Hay Mall discussions, the council approved a $59,150 bid for the 2025 sanitary sewer spot repair program, which will address critical infrastructure needs in the area. The project is expected to be completed by September 26, 2025.

The meeting also highlighted the city's sidewalk inspection program, which is undergoing adjustments following a recent court ruling that changed liability for sidewalk maintenance. The council is considering whether to tighten inspection standards or maintain the current program, which has been effective in identifying and addressing sidewalk issues.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting reflect Urbandale's commitment to enhancing community facilities and infrastructure, ensuring that the city continues to grow and adapt to the needs of its residents. The next steps involve further due diligence and collaboration with state officials to finalize the plans for the Merle Hay Mall redevelopment.