Expanded James W. Cownie Soccer Park - Des Moines, IA
CSL, with the participation of CHA Consulting, recently completed a feasibility study for the City of Des Moines regarding the potential expansion of James W. Cownie Soccer Park. The current complex offers 12 tournament-quality fields and parking for approximately 1,200 vehicles on more than 60 acres. Project objectives included continuing to have the complex qualify for regional and national signature events, while also meeting and serving local needs. Additionally, the CSL team assisted in developing creative solutions to resolve entry and exit constraints at the current Complex due to the challenges associated with the proximity of a railroad line in front of an individual entrance/exit to the Complex.
As part of this process, we evaluated the position of Des Moines as an economic center of activity, as well as a destination for visitors, as they pertain to the market’s ability to attract increased activity at the Soccer Park. CSL analyzed local market conditions, historical Cownie Park operations, competitive and comparable facilities, and conducted extensive user group and community outreach (via telephone surveys to local and non-local user groups and online community surveys). CSL then synthesized this research into several market supportable facility program recommendations. CHA developed construction cost estimates of several scenarios and developed conceptual layouts of expansion scenarios. A detailed cost/benefit analysis was performed for the recommended concept, including a risk assessment of anticipated upfront and ongoing costs compared against the projected economic benefits associated with the potential development.
The City intends to use study findings as a guide to achieve an optimal plan to meet the current and future demands of the local community and sports organizations, as well as potential regional, state and national tournaments for both adults and youths.