The Pacific Ridge Neighborhood encompasses approximately 167 acres and is geographically situated along SR-99/Pacific Highway (Pac Hwy) South and extends from S 216th to Kent-Des Moines Road. The area is currently characterized by low intensity commercial development, motels and under utilized property along Pac Hwy and a mix of residential uses and densities to the east and west. Although Pacific Ridge has a reputation as a place of high crime, drug use and prostitution, things are on the upswing!
Des Moines completed an intensive planning process that resulted in an innovative strategy to promote market-driven redevelopment of the area. Products of this effort include the integrated Pacific Ridge Neighborhood Improvement Plan/EIS, design guidelines and zoning (DMMC 18.31) that were adopted in 2000, and an EIS addendum and a Planned Action Ordinance that were adopted in 2001.
The vision, goals, policies, and actions identified in the Neighborhood Improvement Plan are intended to transform Pacific Ridge into a new urban community. This transformation includes:
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Replacing lower-scale, existing buildings with new structures that will dramatically enhance the appearance, character, economics and safety of the area
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Buildings and open spaces designed for pedestrians as well as motorists
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Superior design features that make the neighborhood inviting to residents and businesses, complement other areas of Des Moines, and foster community pride
To date, Des Moines has invested $21 million in regional transportation improvements along Pac Hwy that focused on regional transportation and pedestrian access. Improvements include north-south HOV lanes, pedestrian amenities, pedestrian-scale lighting, landscaping, under grounding of utilities, and regional stormwater detention facilities. Completion of the improvements has added value to the surrounding properties, making redevelopment of the area more likely.
Recent developments in the Pacific Ridge Neighborhood include the Safeway shopping center and Walgreen’s. Proposed new development includes:
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Waterview Crossing – a mixed-use development that will include 1,600 residential units, 40,000 square feet (sf) of retail, 90,000 sf of office space and a hotel on an 11-acre site
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Patel Medical Arts Building – 17,400 sf office building on a 0.65-acre site
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Heritage Place – 21,000 sf commercial development on a 1.6-acre site