The Southeast Connector, a seven‑mile arterial road that will join downtown Des Moines with the city of Pleasant Hill, has entered its final construction phase. After decades of planning, the project is now poised to deliver a faster, safer commute for residents of southeast Polk County.
Project background and timeline
City Engineer Steve Naber explained that discussions about a southeastern link date back to the 1970s, with formal planning kicking off in the late 1990s. Construction began in 2010 at Second Avenue near Principal Park, crossing railroad tracks and a floodplain before terminating in Pleasant Hill.
Local officials’ perspective
“The city has been talking about a connection to southeast Polk County since actually the ’70s. And then in the late ’90s was when the planning efforts started. And so, we’re excited to make this connection,” Naber said.
Pleasant Hill City Manager Ben Champ, who has closely followed the project, emphasized that the road’s primary benefit is improved connectivity, not new development. “This is something that will create a connection to downtown that is faster, that is safer and is out of the floodplain,” Champ noted.
What the final phase entails
The last two‑mile segment, budgeted at roughly $60 million, will tie the connector into Highway 65 in Pleasant Hill. This link will give drivers an additional option for traveling between Des Moines and the southeastern part of the county, reducing travel time to about ten minutes, according to Champ.
Construction on this segment is slated for completion by the end of 2027. Once finished, the road will provide a reliable alternative route that avoids the flood‑prone areas that have historically slowed traffic.
Impact on commuters and the community
Residents anticipate a smoother commute, especially during peak hours when existing routes can become congested. The project also aligns with broader regional goals of enhancing transportation infrastructure while preserving floodplain safety.
Local businesses expect the improved corridor to make it easier for customers and employees to travel between the two cities, potentially boosting economic activity without encouraging unchecked sprawl.
Looking ahead
With the final phase underway, city leaders are focusing on ensuring the project stays on schedule and within budget. Both Des Moines and Pleasant Hill officials have expressed confidence that the Southeast Connector will become a lasting asset for families, commuters, and the broader community.
As the project nears completion, officials encourage residents to stay informed about any temporary traffic adjustments and to look forward to a more efficient, flood‑resilient route that strengthens the bond between Des Moines and Pleasant Hill.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
