By Shane Goodman Publisher/Editor
Wishing well
The wish list of a few visionaries just a decade or two ago helped create many changes in what we see now as Des Moines’ landscape. Cities and counties across the Midwest aggressively competed against each other to create venues that would bring concerts, events and other attractions to the area. The rivalry became a “keeping up with the Joneses” game, seeing which area could provide the most attractive brick and mortar. Locally, the comparison was made between Omaha’s Qwest Center and Des Moines’ Wells Fargo Arena, despite the size difference in cities. Some questioned the need for such a mammoth facility here in central Iowa. Others wondered if less expensive options — including remodels of current facilities — would make more sense. Those were fair questions then and now.
Matt Miller interviews several of those involved and tells us if Wells Fargo Arena — and the Iowa Events Center — is a dream come true or just another lofty wish.
Thanks for reading. CV
