Des Moines Area Sees Over $500 Million in Commercial Construction Permitted in January
The Greater Des Moines area kicked off 2026 with a significant surge in commercial construction, with permits issued for eight new projects totaling over $508.7 million in January, according to a review by the Business Record.
Robinson Inc. Leads the Way with Massive Manufacturing Facility
The largest single project is a nearly 1.4 million square foot manufacturing space for Robinson Inc., a Wisconsin-based custom metal manufacturer. The company is expanding into Altoona, with construction valued at $56.6 million. This expansion is anticipated to create at least 100 new jobs, according to city and state officials.
Robinson Inc. Specializes in metal fabricated products for a diverse range of industries, including food processing, energy, pulp and paper, oil and gas, heavy equipment, and military and defense. The new plant will be located on approximately 60 acres at 2560 42nd St. NW in Altoona.
Data Centers and Airport Expansion Fuel Growth
Beyond Robinson Inc.’s investment, a $385 million permit was issued for the construction of a 244,676-square-foot data center within Microsoft Inc.’s Ginger West campus in West Des Moines. Phase 1B of the terminal project at the Des Moines International Airport also received a permit, valued at $59.3 million.
These projects demonstrate a continued investment in infrastructure and technology within the Des Moines area.
Interactive Maps and Data Available
Detailed information about these and other commercial building projects is available online. An interactive map of building permits, as well as spreadsheets detailing new projects, tenant improvements, and remodels, can be accessed through the Business Record’s website. Data from 2025 is also available for comparison.
View an interactive map of building permits.
View a spreadsheet of building permits issued for new projects.
Also available is an interactive map of commercial building permits issued in 2025.
And a spreadsheet of the permits from 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total value of the commercial projects permitted in January?
The total value of the eight new commercial projects permitted in January is over $508.7 million.
Which company is building the largest new facility?
Robinson Inc., a Wisconsin-based custom metal manufacturer, is building the largest new facility – a nearly 1.4 million square foot manufacturing space.
Where is the new Robinson Inc. Plant located?
The new Robinson Inc. Plant is located at 2560 42nd St. NW in Altoona.
How many jobs is the Robinson Inc. Expansion expected to create?
The expansion is expected to create at least 100 new jobs.
