The Altoona City Council on Monday approved the final plat and site plan for The Shoppes at Prairie Crossing, a new retail development located south of the Outlets of Des Moines near Hubbell Avenue and U.S. Highway 65.
A Long-Held Vision
Mike Whalen, president and CEO of Heart of America Group, described the approval as the culmination of a vision spanning two decades. The development is expected to cost approximately $80 million and will encompass 250,000 square feet of retail space on a 39-acre site.
Whalen indicated that he is currently in discussions with 13 companies—including national and international retailers—to occupy the space. Some of these companies already have a presence in the western part of the metro area and are looking to expand eastward, while others would be new to the local market.
Catalyst for Growth
Heart of America Group has already developed hotels and restaurants—including Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse and Burger Shed—on the site. Whalen believes The Shoppes at Prairie Crossing will complement existing attractions like the Outlets of Des Moines and Bass Pro Shops, establishing Altoona as a major retail destination in the eastern metro area.
The development will include more than 1,000 parking spaces. Building facades will be customized to reflect each tenant’s branding, utilizing pre-cast panels and color banding for aesthetic appeal. The building will face Hubbell Avenue and U.S. Highway 65, with the rear facing the Outlets of Des Moines.
Whalen anticipates breaking ground on the project within the next few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the size of The Shoppes at Prairie Crossing?
The Shoppes at Prairie Crossing will be a 250,000-square-foot retail center built on a 39-acre site.
Who is the developer of the project?
The developer of The Shoppes at Prairie Crossing is Heart of America Group, led by President and CEO Mike Whalen.
What other businesses does Heart of America Group operate?
Heart of America Group also operates restaurants like the Machine Shed and Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, as well as hotels across six states.
As this project moves forward, what impact will it have on the surrounding communities and the overall retail landscape of the eastern Des Moines area?
