Christensen Development to partner with Global Entertainment Company, “Live Nation” Big Boost Expected for Central Iowa’s Live Music Scene

DES MOINES, IOWA (April 3, 2018) – Christensen Development today, in collaboration with Live Nation, unveiled plans to city officials for the redevelopment of the Argonne Armory Building in downtown Des Moines. Live Nation, the world’s largest live entertainment company and Christensen Development will establish The Armory as the premier live music venue between Chicago and Denver that will host high-quality talent spanning a large variety of concert sizes, genres and interests. Located at 602 Robert D. Ray Drive, The Armory will have a maximum capacity of approximately 2,000 and will serve an estimated 150,000 guest annually.

The Armory will enable local booking agents and promoters to attract shows that previously could not be accommodated in Greater Des Moines. “We believe The Armory will fulfill a need for residents and further solidify Des Moines providing a ‘must experience’ for musicians and music lovers alike,” said Developer Jake Christensen, “It became clear, thanks to Capital Crossroads, the vision plan for central Iowa and the Regional Cultural Assessment, we were in the need of a 1,000 – 2,000 person live music venue and this project not only delivers on this need but will take the whole region to a new entertainment level.”

The re-use and rehabilitation of the historic Argonne Armory building will restore the interior volumes and social functions that were part of the original building design. The fabric and framework of the Civic Center Historic District will be reinvigorated by bringing general public use back to the building as well as reconnecting the riverfront facade to the public realm as originally conceived. The Armory, with Live Nation, will compliment Brenton Skating Plaza programming. It will add a pedestrian destination, activity and visual interest along the Riverwalk and from the adjacent East Village community increasing the vitality of two of the most exciting urban amenities in Des Moines.

Live Nation’s national leverage, will position The Armory to be a world-class venue for residents of Greater Des Moines as well as those visiting. The vision for The Armory is to become a destination much like Live Nation’s other nationally recognized venues such as The House of Blues, Gramercy Theater and The Fillmore.