Commercial growth is on the rise in Waukee. In 2022, the City of Waukee issued 28 commercial permits, up from 19 in 2021, and valuation quadrupled to $103 million.
“Developers and businesses see Waukee as a desirable place to conduct business,” said Jennifer Brown, Economic Development Director for the City of Waukee. “The City strives to be nimble and responsive to new proposals as well as reduce barriers to development for projects that align with the goals and needs of Waukee.”
Smart city planning combines with cohesive execution to support continued growth with infrastructure, community amenities, housing and more. In fiscal year 2022, the City of Waukee invested $53.75 million in infrastructure, including wrapping up major road improvement projects for Warrior Lane and Ashworth Road. Two notable entertainment and recreation centers will draw hundreds of thousands of visitors not only from the metro but across the region. Triumph Park opened in June 2022, with tournaments drawing teams from as far as New Jersey. The Live Nation entertainment venue broke ground and will soon serve as the keystone for KeeTown Loop.
Notable commercial projects currently under construction include:
- Access Systems expansion: $17 million investment which is expected to add 60 new jobs
- Waukee Towne Center: $90 million investment with an anticipated 250+ new job opportunities
- Iowa Clinic: $35 million investment will bring 30 new jobs as well as expanded access to healthcare services in Waukee
“City officials and staff are thrilled to continue welcoming new businesses and seeing existing businesses expand, creating new jobs and strengthening the community,” said Mayor Courtney Clarke. “We don’t expect growth to slow, so we continue to prepare with smart budgeting and strategic planning to expand infrastructure and amenities that make Waukee a great place to live and do business.”
Residential Permits
In 2022, residential permits slowed compared to 2021, but the City of Waukee saw a significant increase in the number of units from multi-family permits: 690 units for 2022 vs 367 units for 2021.
“The increase in units for multi-family reflects market trends in housing costs as well as Waukee's continued growth,” said Mayor Clarke. “We're seeing larger complexes, which will contribute to diverse housing options that suit residents at various lifecycle stages.”
The valuation of all building permits issued by the City in 2022 totals $421.5 million, topping Waukee’s previous record-setting 2021 ($330.6 million). It's five times higher than 2012's permit valuation number of $80.6 million. Of the 1,552 permits issued in 2022, 380 were for single-family housing, 146 were for townhomes, seven were for multi-family developments and 28 were for commercial developments. The remaining permits fall into the "Other" category, which includes projects such as additions, alterations or decks.