DES MOINES, Iowa — The downtown Des Moines riverfront YMCA could be spared the wrecking ball, if it is designated a landmark.
The city`s planning and zoning commission will make a recommendation for city council Thursday at 6 p.m.
Preservationists want to protect the old YMCA building because of its history. The landmark board unanimously approved the building eligible for landmark status. But there are a lot of things that make maintaining the building unappealing.
The building has low floor-ceiling heights, lack of a sprinkler system and small window openings. Designating this building as a landmark would make demolishing the building difficult and costly, which is why the current owners of the YMCA are against it.
The athletic facility is relocating to a new facility downtown later this year. Despite the potential state historic tax credits, YMCA officials worry this designation will scare off potential buyers.
City staff also recommended against the designation, because of the potential this location has for the city’s riverwalk area. The city’s Plan and Zoning Commission recommendation is just a recommendation. Th council will make the final decision in November.
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