HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-09-16 D01 Work Session_Comprehensive Development PlanAGENDA ITEM:
CITY OF WAUKEE, IOWA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING COMMUNICATION
MEETING DATE: September 16, 2025
AGENDA ITEM:Comprehensive Development Plan review
FORMAT:Work Session
SYNOPSIS INCLUDING PRO & CON: HGKi representatives will present the plan review.
FISCAL IMPACT INCLUDING COST/BENEFIT ANALYSIS:
COMMISSION/BOARD/COMMITTEE COMMENT:
STAFF REVIEW AND COMMENT:
RECOMMENDATION:
ATTACHMENTS: I. HGKi memo and draft plan
PREPARED BY: Becky Schuett
REVIEWED BY:
D1
800 Washington Avenue North, Suite 207
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Memorandum
To : City Council and Planning & Zoning Commission
From: Rita Trapp and Kendra Ellner, Consulting Planners
Subject: Joint Meeting - Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Date: September 12, 2025
Introduction
The initial phase of the Imagine Waukee 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update included HKGi visiting the
community in May, taking a tour, hosting in-person and virtual listening sessions, and launching a
range of online engagement tools such as a community survey, a comprehensive plan audit, and a
public project website with an interactive issues and opportunities map. These efforts helped HKGi
build a strong understanding of current conditions and community perspectives since the 2019 Plan’s
adoption, and informed the development of the Community Context Report, which will be
incorporated into the updated plan. With the initial data collection and understanding complete, HKGi
provided a summary of activities and key findings in early July. The July 2025 memo and infographic
summary of the community engagement are attached for reference.
The project is currently focused on exploring concepts and considering proposed revisions to key
topic areas of the plan based on all the consolidated input to advance the development of strategic
updates and prioritization of actions. While the 2019 Plan has effectively guided Waukee’s growth, the
city’s rapid expansion over the past six years highlights the need for a thoughtful update to ensure the
plan remains aligned with evolving community priorities.
Joint Meeting Topics
The following sections summarize the key discussion topics for the upcoming joint meeting. These
topics will help confirm the approach to the proposed updates and guide the next phase of the
Imagine Waukee 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update planning process. Councilmembers and
commissioners are advised that the topics discussed will be revisited during future meetings when
draft chapters of the plan are available.
Vision and Guiding Principles
The vision and guiding principles serve as the groundwork of the community’s values and a compass
for shaping Waukee’s future. Feedback from the community and staff indicates that the Imagine
Waukee 2040 Comprehensive Plan has been highly successful, with many goals already achieved. The
original 2019 vision continues to resonate strongly and reflect the community’s long-term aspirations.
As such, HKGi recommends retaining the existing vision. The current plan has 10 guiding principles. If
desired, there could be an opportunity to consolidate a few to reduce this number. Please review the
vision and guiding principles attached to share any additional input at the joint meeting for potential
changes.
September 12, 2025
Joint Meeting - Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Memorandum 2
Plan Updates Approach
From all the input gathered there is deemed to be broad satisfaction with the current Imagine Waukee
2040 Comprehensive Plan and the community’s overall trajectory. As a result, upcoming updates are
anticipated to be more strategic, meaningful, relevant to current conditions, and flexible enough to
address emerging needs. With many goals already accomplished, the focus is now on refining and
enhancing the plan to support future decision-making and community growth.
The Comprehensive Plan is organized into nine total sections, six of which form the core content
covering key topics that serve as the community’s important functions and will need to be a focus on
over the next 15 years including land use, economic development, housing, transportation,
community facilities, and parks. The plan is designed to be broad enough to guide the community to
its long-term vision, yet specific enough to catalyze action and provide clarity during times of change
or uncertainty.
HKGi, in collaboration with city staff, has developed an approach to updating the plan based on
insights gathered to date. This includes identifying ways to add to the plan to better capture
community successes and to provide context for city policies and strategies. For each section, the
following has been provided for your review and comment:
» Successes: Each section will highlight key accomplishments that could be added to the plan in a
callout box to showcase progress and reinforce the value of continued efforts.
» Community Engagement Takeaways: A summation of the community feedback has been
categorized to align with each section, helping to inform updates and reflect current community
perspectives.
» Major Changes and Revisions: HKGi and department staff identified the significant updates that
are needed in each of the related sections such as charts, maps, and some of the subtopics. This
section also includes suggested call out boxes that would help explain the context for city policies
or strategies. Minor edits will also be made to streamline the narrative and update outdated
language.
» Updated Goals: Each of the six core sections of the Comprehensive Plan includes its own set of
goals, policies, and actions. At this stage, the intent of the joint meeting is to review the goals to
ensure they holistically align with the community’s desired direction for each topic area. Using the
discussion and input from the joint meeting, staff and the consultant team will thoroughly review
the policies and actions to ensure alignment.
A consolidated summary sheet of the proposed updates for each of the six core sections are attached.
Please review these materials ahead of the joint meeting, where we’ll briefly walk through each
section and invite additional feedback to help finalize the direction for the updates in the next phase
of the Imagine Waukee 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update.
Sustainability
A requested area of focus in this update is sustainability. Waukee completed a Sustainability Plan in
2024 which outlined strategies to enhance sustainability within City operations. Building on that
September 12, 2025
Joint Meeting - Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Memorandum 3
foundation, HKGi sees an opportunity to expand these efforts into broader community initiatives as
part of the Plan update.
The City has already made notable progress upgrading fleet vehicles, making improvements to City
buildings making them more energy efficient, integrating more greenways, and focus on developing
more stormwater management practices . However, through the community engagement input,
residents expressed interest in additional initiatives such as community gardens, composting,
electronics recycling programs, and extended farmers markets. These ideas represent opportunities
to further build Waukee’s sustainability capacity in ways that are visible, accessible, and impactful.
HKGi would appreciate your feedback on the proposed sustainability direction. To support the
discussion, please consider the following questions:
1. Are there specific sustainability topics you would like to explore further?
2. What level of integration should sustainability have in the plan—should it be woven
throughout or addressed in a dedicated chapter?
3. Are there specific questions or areas where HKGi can provide additional insight or support?
Concepts
As part of the Comprehensive Plan Update, evaluating future land use in Waukee’s designated growth
areas is essential to supporting orderly and phased development. This process will help align
decisions around desired land use patterns , infrastructure, major transportation routes, and other
constraints or opportunities that may influence growth. At the request of staff, HKGi has developed
concepts for areas of the community that were identified as urban reserve on the 2040 Land Use Plan.
These concepts will be shared during the joint meeting for initial feedback and then refined further
based on discussion and direction.
Next Steps
Your feedback during this meeting is essential to refining the ideas, concepts, and overall approach to
the plan updates. HKGi will use the input gathered to begin drafting updates to the plan chapters and
identifying implementation actions. Once these updates are incorporated, HKGi will provide a follow-
up summary and return for an in-person review session to walk through the revised Imagine Waukee
2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Attachments
• Community Engagement infographic
• Vision and Guiding Principles
• Section summary sheets:
o Land Use
o Housing
o Economic Development
o Transportation
September 12, 2025
Joint Meeting - Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Memorandum 4
o Community Facilities
o Parks and Open Space
•July 10, 2025 Project Update Memo
ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
Participants
»School District
»Developers and builders
»The Planning
and Zoning Commission
»Mayor and City
Council
»City Department
Heads
Waukee is thought to be a
well-planned community
known for:
»Retention of its small-town character
»Its high quality of life
Strong schools
58% of votes for “Favorite things about Waukee” in the survey
Comprehensive Plan Audit
City Visit
HKGi visited the community in mid-May to meet
staff, understand constraints and opportunities
from key stakeholders, and take a comprehensive
tour of the City to see first hand the physical
conditions and unique elements that make the
community what it is.
Looking at Development
RECENT MOMENTUM
»Projects like Triumph Park, Kettlestone, Apple Data Center
»Mixture of housing types
ECONOMIC EFFORTS
»Healthcare
»Technology
»Logistics
»Downtown revitalization
Opportunities
We love that everyone is so friendly and helpful.
»Become a destination for sports & recreation tourism
»Refining land use policies
»Expanding public-private partnerships
»Enhancing collaboration with schools and regional agencies to support balanced growth
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Key Challenges
»Housing affordability
»Infrastructure maintenance
»Workforce attraction and retention
Potential Challenges
#1
#2 #3
The Good:
The survey was
distributed to Planning
and Zoning commission
members.
16
Total Responses
Participants
Overall, the plan was viewed as a valuable resource, particularly for land use and housing guidance. However, it is underutilized for report writing, budgeting, and work planning.
»Plan structure
»Role supporting key projects
A comprehensive plan audit was conducted to assess the 2019 Plan’s
effectiveness, relevance, and usability through a 12-question survey.
Possible Improvements:
»Refining goals
»Identifying infrastructure limitations
»Aligning the plan with evolving community needs
The following seven
supplemental plans have
been adopted since 2019:
»Major Streets Plan
»Street Design Guide
»Neighborhood Design Guidelines
»Northwest
Neighborhood Area
Plan Phase 1
»Civic Master Plan
»Sustainability Plan
»Trails Master Plan
Recommendations
Incorporating the civic campus master plan
“Leverage social media to broaden community outreach”
Reassessing land use in Kettlestone and the
NW/SW growth areas to
address property usage
and tax base balance
Improving accessibility
and cultural inclusivity
Engaging broader
audiences such as
youth, major employers,
and school district leaders
A number of engagement events were held to understand the existing conditions and gather the perceptions of the community since the 2019 Plan was adopted and put into effect. Upon completion of the data collection and analysis, HKGi is providing an update on activities completed and key findings to incorporate into the Imagine Waukee Plan update.
The bigger a town gets, the harder it gets to
retain a sense of
community.
Community Survey
Issues & Opportunities Map
Outdoor
recreation & amenities
Waukee’s Greatest Asset:
#1
#2 #3
Quality
of lifeSchools
Favorite Things about Waukee:
Looking at Future Challenges
»Infrastructure
»Population Change
• Housing availability
»Financial pressures
• High property taxes
• Budgeting for new and maintaining existing infrastructure
»Rapid growth & urbanization
• Loss of small town charm
• Increased traffic congestion
• Environmental impact
• Strain on services
Potential ideas & Amenities/services in other communities that
would benefit Waukee:
More variety in recreation, community spaces, and dining options
Expanded elements of urban design and accessibility (walk/bike)
Focus on sustainability and environment (nature preserves, farmland)
I am happy to see that ‘Stewardship of the Natural Environment’ is on the list of principles. Please make these efforts robust, there will certainly be widespread community collaboration.
Changes or additions summarized by the
current Guiding Principals:
Balanced & Intentional Growth
that prioritizes affordable, quality housing while limiting over development and repetitive
businesses
Infrastructure Improvements
including widening key roads, adding bike and pedestrian paths, enhancing safety features, and
improving traffic flow
Revitalizing Downtown
fostering local entrepreneurship, and attracting larger employers to
strengthen the tax base
Public Schools Increased Support
consideration of alternative education options, and attention to youth behavior
Public Safety and Services
to keep pace with growth, including expanded police, fire, and EMT coverage, and better maintenance of sidewalks and streets
Environmental Sustainability
calls to preserve open land, restore natural ecosystems, and promote community composting and nature-based recreation
Focus on Core Services
spending tax dollars wisely
Simplify Guiding Principals
to ensure transparency, clarity, and long-term fiscal responsibility
849
Site Visitors
203
Comments
90
Contributors
Ideas & Suggestions
Dislikes
Mobility Improvements
Liked Locations
41%16%
13%
0.5%
30%
320 Responses
Other
Desired Improvements:
traffic safety, crosswalks, connectivity, signage, intersection timing, park
amenities (splash pads,
tree plantings, dog parks)
I really appreciate the change to blinking yellow left turns here. It has improved my commute drastically
Mobility-related issues
Resident acknowledge
recent park improvements,
reinvestment into
downtown, and amenities
(Fox Park Pavilion)
Pleasant biking experiences (Olson Drive)
Beautiful Stormwater ponds (Holmes Murphy Area)
Overall, comments reflect a community engaged in shaping a safer, more connected, and amenity-rich Waukee
SCHOOLS
COMMUNITY
SMALL TOWN
GROWTH
FEEL
PARKS PEOPLE
Clean
Safe
Location
Trails
Family
City
Proximity
access
friendly
potential
safety
great
stores
infrastructure
business
growing
opportunities
vibe
spaces
crime
quality
green
development
VISION & GUIDING PRINCIPLES
In order to effectively plan, a community must define its aspirations for
the future. A community’s “Vision” statement captures those aspirations
and provides a framework upon which the Comprehensive Plan and
strategic actions can be built and carried out. Furthermore, the Vision,
when combined with a set of Guiding Principles, becomes a yardstick by
which to measure progress. Waukee’s Vision Statement recognizes the
past but looks to the future, depicting how the community will look, feel,
and function over the next 20 years.
The Vision and Guiding Principles are rooted in the recommendations
of previous comprehensive plans and information gleaned from prior
community planning efforts and through the community engagement
process. While the vision and guiding principles capture general intentions
and desires, the plan recognizes that there are divergent opinions on some
of these topics. It is important to recognize that the Comprehensive Plan
is not a static document and that change happens. However, change to
the vision and guiding principles should be done carefully and through a
transparent, inclusive planning process.
Guiding principles support the vision and define the values and priorities of
the community. They act as an ongoing measurement tool for evaluating
the appropriateness and effectiveness of future initiatives. In general,
guiding principles:
»Orient the community to the future
»Require imagination, recognizing that the direction set for the
community may be aspirational
»Look to current conditions and community traditions to inform the
appropriate future
»Identify what the community desires for itself based on shared values
3. 3. Vision & Guiding PrinciplesVision & Guiding Principles
Vision & Guiding Principles 2-13
and understandings
»Serve as a tool for evaluating proposals, projects, ideas, and future
directions
»Provide an anchor during conflict; a way of finding common ground
and shared values
»Become a basis for coordination and cooperation
»Offer a source of energy and enthusiasm for maintaining a commitment
to the future
A set of guiding principles has been crafted to provide additional clarity
to Waukee’s Vision. These guiding principles highlight those elements that
are important to the community and are key to the achievement of the
community’s Vision.
Input provided through a Community Survey, a Visioning Session with
community leaders and stakeholders, and a community-wide meeting
held in May 2017 contributed to the development of a Vision Statement
and associated set of Guiding Principles for the Waukee community.
Vision
While rooted in the reality of the community’s past and present, the
Vision Statement describes how the Waukee community will look, feel,
and function in 2040. The Vision Statement articulates a desired condition
or state for Waukee and represents an aspirational or ideal view of the
community in the future. It is an over-arching framework that permeates
the plan and informs supporting policy and strategy decisions.
Vision Statement for Waukee:
Waukee is a high-quality, forward-looking community poised for
continued and balanced growth in the 21st Century. It is a multi-
generational community with a diverse range of people and
a diverse range of employment, entrepreneurial, educational,
shopping, housing, and recreational opportunities that are
connected and accessible to all. Waukee actively preserves and
enhances the natural features and environmental qualities that
make it an attractive place to live, work, and play. Waukee will
continue to grow in an economically, environmentally, and
socially responsible manner and will leverage thoughtful design
and innovation to create a variety of special, distinct places that
make Waukee a destination in central Iowa.
#Collaboration
#EfficiencyTransparencyConsistency
#CleanRenewableEfficientEnergy
#OccupationalDiversity
#Revitalization
#HousingDiversity
#CommunityCharacter
#NaturalResourcesandAgProtection
#SustainableDesign
#TransportationDiversity
2-14 Waukee Comprehensive Plan Update | 2040
Guiding Principles
Coordinated and Efficient
Growth Management
Waukee will provide infrastructure
and services for growth in an efficient
manner that balances development
with the conservation of the natural
environment.
Stewardship of the
Natural Environment
Waukee will strive to be a clean,
sustainable, and environmentally-
friendly community that identifies and
conserves natural, scenic, and envi-
ronmentally sensitive areas, including
important wildlife habitat, waterways,
and visually sensitive areas.
Trails, Parks, and
Recreational Opportunities
Waukee will provide a diverse range
of recreational opportunities, includ-
ing facilities and programming for
all ages and varying interests. Trails,
parks, open space, and recreational
opportunities will be connected and
integrated into neighborhoods and
other areas of the community.
Economic and
Fiscal Strength
Waukee will actively build its tax base
and the diversity of businesses in
order to provide fiscal strength to the
community and to help fund the high
level of services and amenities that
the community desires. It will plan in
a fiscally sustainable manner for new
growth and the management of in-
frastructure to serve both newer and
older parts of the community.
A Focus on Quality Design
and Distinct Places
Waukee will promote a high stand-
ard of design for new development,
renovations, and rehabilitations in or-
der to provide attractive and endur-
ing neighborhoods, public spaces,
and commercial areas and to create
unique destinations that will make
Waukee a special and distinct place
in central Iowa.
Quality of Life in
Neighborhoods and
Gathering Places
Waukee will encourage the crea-
tion of new and strengthening of
existing neighborhoods, community
destinations and gathering places
(including Downtown, parks, and
other civic spaces). It will provide
for a diverse range of public art and
cultural amenities around the com-
munity. It will promote and maintain
the quality and character of estab-
lished and new neighborhoods and
ensure that residents have access to
the full range of facilities and services
that are needed for healthy, livable
neighborhoods.
A Focus on Technology
and Innovation
Waukee will embrace new technol-
ogy and innovation in preparing to
be a community of the future.
A United and Accessible
Community
Waukee welcomes and is accessible
to all people and all generations in its
planning, management, and opera-
tions. Waukee pursues partnerships
that advance the goals of the com-
munity, including partnerships with
school districts, nearby communities,
and the region at large.
A Comprehensive
and Multi-Modal
Transportation System
Waukee will provide a safe and
efficient transportation system that
promotes a sense of community by
connecting all areas of town, and
accommodates various modes of
travel, including walking, biking, and
transit. The transportation system will
efficiently connect Waukee to the
rest of the metropolitan area and
central Iowa. It also will provide for
aesthetically appealing local streets
and corridors and will promote the
adaptability of corridors to chang-
ing transportation technologies and
travel behaviors.
A Community of Diversity
Waukee welcomes people from
diverse backgrounds, provides a di-
verse range of opportunities for hous-
ing, employment, recreation, and
daily activities, and has a diverse set
of destinations that make Waukee a
unique community in central Iowa.
Vision & Guiding Principles 2-15
Guiding Principles Precedent Images
Coordinated and Efficient Growth Management
A Focus on Quality Design and Distinct Places
Economic and Fiscal Strength
A Comprehensive and Multi-Modal Transportation System
2-16 Waukee Comprehensive Plan Update | 2040
» Guiding Principles Precedent Images
Trails, Parks, and Recreational Opportunities
Stewardship of the Natural Environment
Quality of Life in Neighborhoods and Gathering Places
A United and Accessible Community & A Community of Diversity
Vision & Guiding Principles 2-17
Land Use - Section Summary
Successes
Purpose: To provide a summary of accomplishments related to this topic area since 2019.
• City Campus Center Concept Plan
• The City’s ability to engage in smart and strategic planning. Guiding housing
development to include a mixture of housing. Adaptation to Waukee’s rapid growth.
• Key projects: Apple, Fleet Farm, Kettlestone, NW High School, Iowa Clinic and Unity Point
medical office, Downtown Triangle redevelopment, and the Grand Prairie Parkway
Corridor
• Development of new city parks and trail networks including Triumph Park
• Acquisition of Little Walnut Creek Greenway
• Supplemental Planning
o 2022 Neighborhood Design Guidelines
o 2022 Northwest Neighborhood Phase 1 Plan
o Trails Master Plan
Community Engagement takeaways
Purpose: To highlight and summarize notable comments gathered from each community
engagement activity, providing a foundation for potential additions to the plan update such as
goals, policies, or subtopics.
• Request to preserve more land for open space and natural amenities
• Reinvestment in downtown
• Growth is seen as an asset
• Encouraging the incorporation of a variety of uses
• Removal or reduction of the gun range
Major revisions and changes
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have initially identified areas that will require
substantial updates to ensure accuracy and relevance.
• New Growth Area Concepts
• Updated Existing and Future Land Use Maps
• Updated land use data and tables
• Key District Updates
o Kettlestone
o Downtown
o Civic Campus
Updated Goals
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have made initial revisions to the goals for this
section. Aiming to consolidate and refine the language to reflect current perspectives. Policies
and actions will be addressed at a later stage.
Goal 1) Reestablish Downtown Waukee as a unique, historic, vibrant, and attractive local and
regional destination.
Goal 2) Continue momentum of establishment of the Kettlestone district as a key employment
center in the Des Moines metro area.
Goal 3) Maintain a healthy balance in land uses between residential, commercial,
office/business park, industrial, and park/open space.
Goal 4) Future development and redevelopment in Waukee incorporate appropriate levels of
density and creative site design to support increased housing options, the viability of
neighborhood commercial, and overall long-term neighborhood sustainability.
Goal 5) The physical character and identity of Waukee is maintained through a high degree of
aesthetics and quality development.
Housing - Section Summary
This chapter is organized slightly differently from the others. As with the other core chapters,
the first section outlines the proposed approach for updating this section of the plan.
The second section introduces housing affordability as an additional topic for discussion,
reflecting a task included in the scope for this phase of the project. Housing affordability is
being explored in greater depth to align with community priorities and inform future planning
recommendations in the plan update.
Successes
Purpose: To provide a summary of accomplishments related to this topic area since 2019.
• Many new subdivisions and apartments
• Supporting a mix of housing types and price points
• City acquisition of property to facilitate affordable housing projects
• Habitat for Humanity 48-unit affordable townhomes on Warrior & Douglas are a key
initiative to bridge housing issues in the community
Community Engagement takeaways
Purpose: To highlight and summarize notable comments gathered from each community
engagement activity, providing a foundation for potential additions to the plan update such as
goals, policies, or subtopics.
• Expressed support to maintain and care for existing housing stock
• Request for more affordable senior housing
Major revisions and changes
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have initially identified areas that will require
substantial updates to ensure accuracy and relevance.
• Update projected housing needs table
• Local precedents for policies and strategies for affordability
• Reinforce what Waukee is doing - small lot, mix housing types/densities in the
neighborhood, multifamily integrated and life cycle housing.
• New legislation requiring cities to allow for ADUs
Updated Goals
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have made initial revisions to the goals for this
section. Aiming to consolidate and refine the language to reflect current perspectives. Policies
and actions will be addressed at a later stage.
Goal 1) Maintain a balanced housing supply with housing available for people at all income
levels and unit types that meet the varying life-cycle needs of Waukee residents.
Goal 2) Establish a housing pattern that respects the natural environment and connects people
while striving to meet local housing needs and the community’s share of metropolitan area
housing growth.
Goal 3) Establish a community of well-maintained housing and neighborhoods including
ownership and rental housing.
Goal 4) Support high quality residential developments and more affordable housing options,
particularly for all life stages.
Housing Affordability
Housing affordability remains a major concern across the country, including Waukee. HKGi has
reviewed efforts from surrounding communities and compared them to Waukee’s approach
(see attached table below). As noted in the section summary above and in the table below,
Waukee has made progress to supporting housing affordability. However, there is still more that
can be done to ensure housing remains affordable for all.
As part of this update, HKGi seeks further direction on what housing affordability means to the
City and how this topic should be addressed into the plan update, either diving in deeper on a
specific strategy or more strongly emphasizing these elements in the Housing chapter. During
the joint meeting we invite councilmember and commissioner input to help shape housing
recommendations, goals, policies, and actions that are responsive to Waukee’s evolving needs.
Topics Waukee Nearby Communities
Ankeny Clive Johnston Urbandale
AD
U
s
Reference to
the 2016 White
House Housing
Development
Toolkit on
allowing ADU.
Action: As part
of the housing
summit, invite
speakers on the
topic.
Suggested
implementation
on creating
provisions for
alternative
housing forms.
Housing study
recommends ADU
ordinance and
setback
amendments.
Urbandale
currently allows
for ADUs. Its
comprehensive
plan
recommends
amending zoning
codes to make
ADUs easier --
size, location,
number, design,
affordability.
Topics Waukee Nearby Communities
Ankeny Clive Johnston Urbandale
Mi
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Hickman Road
designated as
mixed-use
corridor. Policy:
encourage
developments
to follow design
guidelines for
mixed-use
nodes. Policy:
promote
creation of
neighborhood
commercial
nodes tied to
nearby
walkable
neighborhoods.
Sidebar-
walkable scale.
Comp plan
recommendations
include
promoting rear
garages/alleys on
homes; allowing
porches to be
closer to the
sidewalk;
encouraging new
housing in
existing
neighborhoods;
and addressing
sidewalk gaps.
Encouraging
new housing
in areas
nearby to
employment
centers.
Urbandale's
comprehensive
plan follows a
"neighborhood
nodes"
approach,
encouraging
mixed housing
stock near
walkable nodes
with everyday
needs.
Mi
s
s
i
n
g
M
i
d
d
l
e
H
o
u
s
i
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g
Action: As part
of the housing
summit invite
speakers on the
topic.
Reduce minimum
lot sizes, allowing
smaller starter
homes on smaller
lots.
Housing study
encourages family
friendly Workforce
Housing, such as
units with 2-3
bedrooms.
Comp plan
outlines zoning
amendments
including
reducing
minimum lot
size, allowing for
special approval
of missing
middle
development in
single-family
neighborhoods,
reducing setback
requirements to
encourage home
improvements.
Topics Waukee Nearby Communities
Ankeny Clive Johnston Urbandale
Ag
i
n
g
i
n
P
l
a
c
e
Action: Recruit
and potentially
partner with
one or more
developers on
senior housing
projects.
Housing study
encourages
Universal Design
principles in new
developments.
Comp plan
encourages
making home
modification
more affordable,
such as through
grants for
features
including grab
bars, flooring
and trip hazards,
and handrails.
Pr
e
s
e
r
v
i
n
g
C
o
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
Ae
s
t
h
e
t
i
c
s
a
n
d
S
a
f
e
t
y
Weaved into
each area of the
comp plan.
Comp plan
outlines options
for preserving
aesthetics with
large apartments,
including
requiring parking
in rear of building,
a staggered
façade, higher
quality building
finishes on the
public face of the
structure.
Housing study
recommends
codifying exterior
materials
requirements with
palette of materials
and colors;
encouraging local
property owners
and managers to
enroll in Crime Free
Multifamily
Housing Program.
Encouraging
owners and
managers of
multi-family
and rental
housing to be
active
participants in
the Crime Free
Multifamily
Housing
Program.
Encourages
property owners
and managers of
multi-family and
rental housing to
enroll in Crime
Free Multifamily
Housing
Program.
Topics Waukee Nearby Communities
Ankeny Clive Johnston Urbandale
Af
f
o
r
d
a
b
l
e
H
o
u
s
i
n
g
S
t
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
s
/
U
n
i
t
s
Action: Review
and update the
zoning and
subdivision
ordinances to
enable
alternative
housing
patterns and
remove barriers
to affordable
housing
development.
As a member of
the Metro Home
Improvement
Program, provide
financial
assistance for
housing repairs in
low income
homes.
Housing study
recommends
reducing rear
setbacks to allow
for amenities,
reduction in side
setbacks to allow
for garages,
reducing minimum
floor areas for
townhome districts
and planned unit
development
districts. Also
recommends
pursuing affordable
housing units
within larger
development
projects.
Comp plan
encourages
integrating
affordable
housing as
part of
development
projects, not
as the entire
project.
Currently in the
process of
determining
locations for
affordable
housing
developments
Topics Waukee Nearby Communities
Ankeny Clive Johnston Urbandale
Ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
E
x
i
s
t
i
n
g
H
o
u
s
i
n
g
S
t
o
c
k
Action:
Facilitate an
annual housing
trade fair that
brings home
repair and
remodel
vendors,
financiers, and
assistance
providers to
showcase
services.
Action: Form a
partnership
with lending
institutions to
develop low
interest or zero
interest loan
programs for
housing rehab
or re-modeling
of older
housing stock.
Conducts rental
inspections every
2 years as
required by
Property
Maintenance and
Housing Code;
participates in the
Metro Home
Improvement
Program to
preserve
affordable
housing; provides
financial
assistance for
housing repairs.
Housing study
recommends
revising Property
Maintenance Code
to improve housing
conditions.
Encourages
regular
maintenance
of existing and
older housing
stock,
especially
residentially
used homes in
commercial
districts (think
downtown);
conducts
regular rental
unit
inspections
through
Rental
Housing
Program.
Re
u
s
e
Housing study
recommends
pursuing adaptive
reuse projects of
abandoned/unused
buildings.
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
en
g
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
/
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
Action: Prepare
and public
housing
educational
information in
city newsletters
and social
median posts.
Created
materials to
provide
education on
needs for low-
income and
affordable
housing and
the benefits of
multi-family
developments.
Economic Development - Section Summary
Successes
Purpose: To provide a summary of accomplishments related to this topic area since 2019.
• Work-Based Innovation Center and Learning Center programs to match students with
local businesses for internships, mentorships and shadowing opportunities.
• Kettlestone and KeeTown Loop noted for becoming a successful entertainment district
• Landed the Aloft Hotel
• Downtown Action Plan, Business Retention Action Plan and Economic Development
Incentive Policy
• Noticeable effort and reinvestment in Downtown
• Economic Development Action Plan and Strategic Planning in alignment with Comp Plan
• Regional and local partnerships (Greater Des Moines Partnership, Greater Dallas
Development Alliance, Waukee Chamber etc…)
Community Engagement takeaways
Purpose: To highlight and summarize notable comments gathered from each community
engagement activity, providing a foundation for potential additions to the plan update such as
goals, policies, or subtopics.
• Expand farmers market/industrial food court with outdoor space to sit and activities
• Make the Triangle area a focal place to go. Encourage store fronts to have upgraded,
signage, encourage independent restaurant owners to open facilities here. Move the
Waukee Art Fest to this region. Add better parking. Encourage the silos to relocate.
Wau kee is not a small farm town and grow with the population. Provide incentives for
businesses to set up that fit the niche of this becoming a more upscale section of the
city. It has true potential.
• Overcome challenges with bringing in affordable shopping options like TJ Maxx,
Marshall's and Sam's Club
• Bringing in local businesses instead of chains
Major revisions and changes
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have initially identified areas that will require
substantial updates to ensure accuracy and relevance.
• Update position and approach to include continue monitoring market and research,
alignment with action and strategic plan
• Post Disaster Economic Recovery Economic Adaptation (climate, social, and economic
uncertainty)
• Update maps of where residents work and live
• Expand on the need to have affordable space for smaller businesses. There is a lot of the
commercial development that is new – sidebar
• Note brokers & developers should be engaged early in the development process to align
on infrastructure, land use, and community goals.
Updated Goals
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have made initial revisions to the goals for this
section. Aiming to consolidate and refine the language to reflect current perspectives. Policies
and actions will be addressed at a later stage.
Goal 1) Promote the efficient retention and attraction of commercial and industrial areas in the
City as high quality and attractive developments and land uses.
Goal 2) Promote Waukee as a great place for investment and employment.
Goal 3) Attract quality commercial and industrial developments, encouraging more diverse uses
to reduce repetitive businesses.
Goal 4) Attract and develop a quality labor force that meets the needs of the existing labor
market and anticipates trends in business and industry.
Goal 5) Support and strengthen an entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Transportation and Mobility – Section Summary
Successes
Purpose: To provide a summary of accomplishments related to this topic area since 2019.
• Policy: Prepare neighborhood traffic calming policies and guidelines City developed
Street Design Guide (2020)
• Policy: Develop a Transportation System Management Plan City updated the Major
Streets Map with Future Road Classification (2023)
• Pavement Management Plan Update (2025)
• Warrior Lane & Ashworth Drive roundabout was a 5-way intersection redesign praised
for safety and efficiency.
• Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Plan Update (December 2021)
• Two-phase traffic synchronization project
• Phase 1: Conducted an engineer study to determine if an adaptive traffic signal
system was warranted for the entire or a portion of the traffic signal network.
Purchased a central management software (CMS) to monitor and control the entire
traffic signal system. A semi-adaptive system was selected allowing for the collection
of High Definition traffic data which allows for the CMS to recommend updates to
traffic signal timing plans as needed.
• Phase 2: Implemented flashing yellow left turn arrows and right turn arrows at all
appropriate intersection to provide bike ped safety enhancements and improve
overall intersection operations.
Community Engagement takeaways
Purpose: To highlight and summarize notable comments gathered from each community
engagement activity, providing a foundation for potential additions to the plan update such as
goals, policies, or subtopics.
• Crossing at traffic signals is only moderately safe (SE Allice’s Road)
• Request for parking limitations on certain streets. (NE Archer Ave)
• People noted many wide, high-speed roads that divide the community. People would
love to walk/bike to more places but it just doesn't feel safe. (SE Alice’s Road)
• Concerning intersections and unsafe drivers. (NE Westgate Dr.)
• Misalignment of the traffic light settings to the needs of the traffic at that time of day.
(Hickman)
• Accommodating increased traffic volume. (Douglas Parkway)
• Cautious about maintaining visibility when plants become overgrown. (NEW Westgate
Dr.)
• Blinking yellow left turns are appreciated and improve commutes. (Hickman Rd)
• Consider better traffic flow for buses leaving Timberline and vehicles in a hurry. (SE
LaGrant Parkway)
• Consider new pavement or road widening (NE Westgate and Douglas Parkway)
• High-quality schools and a distinguished school district.
Major revisions and changes
Purpose: In general, there will likely be minor text edits for the plan update but based on the
current content in this section, HKGi has identified areas that will require substantial updates
to ensure accuracy and relevance. Please refer to the shared PDFs of the sections and identify
any other subtopics or information that should be included as a major change.
• Update existing conditions and existing roadway miles functional class table update
• Update past planning efforts: reference to Street Design Guide (2020) and other
documents.
• Update functional classification guideline chart
Updated Goals
Purpose: HKGi has drafted initial revisions to the goals for this section, aiming to consolidate
and refine the language to reflect the City and staff’s current perspective.
Goal 1) Work to integrate alternative transportation modes (transit, pedestrian, biking, others)
into the existing and future transportation system.
Goal 2) Develop a transportation system that is safe, environmentally, and fiscally sustainable.
Goal 3) Reinforce more urban design elements and accessibility along transportation corridors
that reflect the vision and enhance the marketability of the Waukee community.
Goal 4) Mitigate traffic congestion and improve traffic flow and safety in all areas of the
community.
Community Facilities and Infrastructure – Section
Summary
Successes
Purpose: To provide a summary of accomplishments related to this topic area since 2019.
• Civic Campus Master Plan
• Library Stormwater Management project with pervious paver parking and bioswales
Public Library stormwater project is a model for sustainability.
• Triumph Park Ponds
• New Northwest Police and Fire Station facility + expanded services
• New Water tower
• Joined Regional Water (Central Iowa Water Works (CIWW))
• The city is recognized for high quality of life.
• Distinct neighborhoods and emerging area identities are appreciated. Allowing the
community to keep the small-town feel.
• The city is attractive to development; the development momentum is aligning with the
Comprehensive Plan.
• Public has a positive perception of growth; modern amenities are seen as exciting and
beneficial.
• Positive perception of city staff, elected officials are deemed as advocates. Theres’s
strong communication and coordination.
• Second public safety building to be able serve more residents and improve response
time.
Community Engagement Takeaways
Purpose: To highlight and summarize notable comments gathered from each community
engagement activity, providing a foundation for potential additions to the plan update such as
goals, policies, or subtopics.
• Compliment on the community pond (SE Tallgrass Lane)
• Concerns regarding lack of public access to Sugar Creek golf course
• Encouragement of a recycling and mobile redemption program
• Lack of hourly public rental and meeting spaces for groups like Girl Scouts.
• Praise on being a clean and safe city.
• Sense of community, infrastructure, access and location to needs are identified as assets
Major Revisions or Changes
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have initially identified areas that will require
substantial updates to ensure accuracy and relevance.
• Public facilities map
• Possible updates to water demand projections
• Include new key facilities map (Northwest Police and Fire Station)
Updated Goals
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have made initial revisions to the goals for this
section. Aiming to consolidate and refine the language to reflect current perspectives. Policies
and actions will be addressed at a later stage.
Goal 1) Preserve the functional integrity of key community facilities and services within the
community while enabling the facility to operate and grow in a manner that best serves the
needs of the Waukee community.
Goal 2) Develop and manage the water supply in a manner that minimizes detrimental impacts
on natural resources, provides affordable, safe, high-quality water for current and future
generations, and safeguards against climatic changes and natural disasters.
Goal 3) Provide abundant, safe drinking water for current and future generations of residents.
Goal 4) Construct, operate and maintain the sanitary sewer system to be economically
sustainable and to promote preservation and protection of water resources and efficient
energy use.
Goal 5) Ensure the sanitary sewer system supports existing and future development by
maintaining adequate capacity, minimizing inflow and infiltration, and meeting all Federal,
State, and WRA standards.
Goal 6) Develop a stormwater system that controls and mitigates effects associated with altered
hydrology such as flooding and channel erosion.
Goal 7) Improve water quality and overall health of the Surface Waters, Shorelands and Natural
Resources.
Goal 8) Have a consistent and clear system for regulation, enforcement, and funding for the
stormwater system.
Goal 9) Utilities should be designed, located, and constructed to avoid significant adverse
environmental impacts and to protect valuable environmental features.
Goal 10) Use the City Sustainability Plan to continue to monitor city facility impacts and
build off plan to add programming for public and community sustainability.
Goal 11) Create new and sustaining existing partnerships with local agencies, bordering
communities, and multijurisdictional organizations to ensure alignment with future
improvements.
Parks, Trails, Recreation & Open Space – Section Summary
Successes
Purpose: To provide a summary of accomplishments related to this topic area since 2019.
• Keeping up with demands and needs of the community
• Raccoon River Valley Trail Usage
• Heart of the Warrior Trailhead
• Many new neighborhood parks: Glynn Village, Alice Nizzi, Westown Meadows,
Stratford Crossing, Sugar Creek, Trailside Dog Park, Fox Creek, Painted Woods West &
Spring Crest
• Focus on innovative design
• Triumph Park: 12 baseball fields, 8 practice fields, Miracle League field, Epic
playground, accessible fishing pier (DNR-stocked), drawing ~500,000 visits annually.
• Prairie Rose Trail with future trail connection into Clive
• Planned Little Walnut Creek trail extension (construction 2027)
• Methodical about park dedication
• New Arts Commission
• Adoption of arts and culture master plan
• Park Day Art Sculptures at Tallgrass Pond
• Beautification efforts at gateways signage and wayfinding systems and throughout parks.
• City is emerging as a regional hub for recreation and sports tourism.
• Perceived as safe, connected trail systems, and accessible high-quality parks.
• Urban fishing partnership with Iowa DNR
Community Engagement takeaways
Purpose: To highlight and summarize notable comments gathered from each community
engagement activity, providing a foundation for potential additions to the plan update such as
goals, policies, or subtopics.
• Desire for stronger connectivity and safer crossings
• Quality and amenities of parks are praised very highly and an asset (Westown Meadows
Park and Fox Creek Park)
• Desire for a public pool/aquatic center and splash pads
• Desire to upgrade older parks
Major revisions and changes
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have initially identified areas that will require
substantial updates to ensure accuracy and relevance.
• Update Park service areas map
• Assessment of park needs
• Highlight stormwater efforts
• Discuss interest in expanding more niche recreation options such as skate parks, ice
hockey, soccer, and multi-use rental facilities. – Note there is a space reserved in the
Civic Campus Plan
• Consider the balance of park dedication for greenways and park space
Updated Goals
Purpose: In collaboration, staff and HKGi have made initial revisions to the goals for this
section. Aiming to consolidate and refine the language to reflect current perspectives. Policies
and actions will be addressed at a later stage.
Goal 1) Ensure every member of the Waukee community has equitable, accessible and
walkable access to a park.
Goal 2) Preserve and protect the environment to improve the local ecology and improve the
community’s connections to nature.
Goal 3) Update the park system plan that establishes Waukee as a regional destination for
outdoor recreation.
Goal 4) Connect neighborhoods to local destinations and the regional trail network.
Goal 5) Support walking and bicycling for recreation and transportation by providing a trail and
sidewalk system that is safe, convenient, and comprehensive.
Goal 6) Provide recreational programming that serves all segments of the Waukee community.
800 Washington Avenue North, Suite 207
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Memorandum
To : City Council and Planning & Zoning Commission
From: Rita Trapp and Kendra Ellner, Consulting Planners
Subject: Project Update: Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Date: July 10, 2025
Introduction
In March 2025, the City re-engaged HKGi to lead the Imagine Waukee 2040 Update. The original plan,
which was adopted in 2019, has been deemed quite successful. However, in the last six years the City
has experienced substantial development and population growth that necessitates revisiting and
updating the plan to ensure it continues to refiect the evolving needs and priorities of the community.
The project’s initial task was to understand the existing conditions and gather the perceptions of the
community since the 2019 Plan. Upon completion of the data collection and analysis, HKGi is
providing an update on activities completed and key flndings. This has included:
» Attending a two-day, in-person community visit that included a City tour, hosting listening
sessions with key stakeholders including staff, Planning Commission, and core community groups
such as developers.
» Facilitating community engagement activities through an online community survey and current
conditions map.
» Conducting a comprehensive plan audit with feedback from City staff and elected offlcials.
» Hosting a few virtual meetings with stakeholders to accommodate schedules.
Key Findings
The following sections summarize key flndings from the outreach conducted as part of the flrst task.
This outreach, as well as the update to the community context report currently underway, will inform
the next phases of the planning process.
City Visit
As councilmembers and commissioners are aware, HKGi visited the community in mid-May to meet
staff, understand constraints and opportunities from key stakeholders, and take a comprehensive tour
of the City to see flrst hand the physical conditions and unique elements that make the community
what it is. The listening sessions included the school district, representatives of developers and
builders, the Planning and Zoning Commission, City Council and city staff department heads. A few
virtual meetings after the visit included the Mayor and City Economic Development Director.
In general, participants had a positive view of the City and the direction it is heading. Overall Waukee
is a well-planned community known for its high quality of life, strong schools, and the retention of its
small-town character. Recent development momentum is highlighted by projects such as Triumph
July 10, 2025
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Memorandum 2
Park, Kettlestone, and the Apple Data Center, as well as the approval of a mixture of housing types.
Economic development efforts are targeting healthcare, tech, and logistics, while downtown
revitalization is gaining renewed interest. The City is interested in becoming a destination for sports
and recreation tourism. Key challenges include housing affordability, infrastructure maintenance, and
workforce attraction and retention. Opportunities lie in reflning land use policies, expanding public-
private partnerships, and enhancing collaboration with schools and regional agencies to support
sustainable, balanced growth.
Comprehensive Plan Audit
The current Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan is organized into nine chapters with the community vision and
guiding principles deflning the values of the community. There are six major chapters encompassing
key topics such as housing, land use, transportation, parks and recreation, etc. Each of these topic
chapters includes an overview, detailed content related to the topic, and related goals, policies, and
actions. The goals, policies, and actions are grouped together to assist in the implementation process,
with each topic having different scales of goals, policies, and actions. With the fast-paced growth of
the community, an aim of this update is to highlight and celebrate the community’s accomplishments
and then identify those items which are still relevant, what is not working and should be removed,
and what is missing.
Since the Imagine Waukee 2040 plan adoption in 2019, the city has demonstrated a strong
commitment to proactive planning. The following seven supplemental plans have been adopted since
2019:
• Major Streets Plan
• Street Design Guide
• Neighborhood Design Guidelines
• Northwest Neighborhood Area Plan Phase 1
• Civic Master Plan
• Sustainability Plan
• Trails Master Plan
The direction from these plans will be used in the update process.
As the update process is intended to build on the existing plan, a comprehensive plan audit was
conducted to assess the 2019 Plan’s effectiveness, relevance, and usability through a 12-question
survey. The survey was distributed to City staff, elected offlcials, and commission members, with a
total of 16 responses collected. Overall, the plan was viewed as a valuable resource, particularly for
land use and housing guidance. However, it is underutilized for report writing, budgeting, and work
planning. Respondents praised the plan’s structure and its role in supporting key projects like Apple,
Kettlestone, and the Grand Prairie Parkway Corridor. Suggestions for improvement included reflning
goals, identifying infrastructure limitations, and better aligning the plan with evolving community
needs.
July 10, 2025
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Memorandum 3
There are several recommendations for the plan update, including incorporating the Civic Campus
Master Plan, reassessing land use in Kettlestone and the NW/SW growth areas to address property
usage and tax base balance, and improving accessibility and cultural inclusivity. Respondents also
emphasized the importance of engaging youth, major employers, and school district leaders, and
leveraging social media to broaden community outreach. A more detailed summary of the audit
flndings can be found in the attachments.
Community Engagement
In the flrst phase of community engagement, City staff and the consultant team facilitated two
opportunities for providing feedback: 1) a community survey and 2) an issue/opportunity mapping
exercise. The activities, which were open for two months from May 14th to July 1st, garnered hundreds
of responses thanks to City staff’s communication efforts.
Community Survey
When the survey offlcially closed on July 2nd there were a total of 320 responses. There were six main
questions and an additional seven demographic questions to understand the makeup of the
community responses. Below is a summary of the main responses. The full detailed report of the
survey responses is attached.
The flrst two questions in the survey asked participants about their favorite things in Waukee and the
City’s assets. For the favorite things in Waukee question respondents were able to check all of their
favorite things in Waukee. There were three responses that rose to the top: quality of life, schools, and
outdoor recreation and amenities. Respondents were also asked to use a word or phrase to describe
Waukee’s greatest asset. The following word cloud shows the most common responses:
There were a range of challenges people highlighted that Waukee could face in the next 10-20 years.
The selection and additional comments submitted were heavily related to infrastructure, followed by
concerns about population change and housing. Financial pressures are also a major theme, with high
July 10, 2025
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Memorandum 4
property taxes being a frequent concern. Many of those selecting other and adding comments
expressed concern that rapid growth and urbanization may affect the small-town feel, increase trafflc
congestion, having environmental impacts, and strain services.
A question was asked to gauge potential ideas on other amenities or services in other communities
that would beneflt Waukee. The top themes are noted below:
• More variety in the recreation, community spaces, and dining options
• Expanded elements of urban design and accessibility such as more walkable areas similar to
West Glen or Prairie Trail, public transit, and better bike infrastructure
• A focus on sustainability and environment with ideas such as community gardens, fruit trees
in public spaces, compost drop off, and more preservation of natural areas and farmland
As we begin to consider speciflc updates to the current Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan we asked
participants to provide feedback on the current guiding principles to understand changes or
additions. Overall, the recommended changes emphasized the need for balanced and intentional
growth that prioritizes affordable, quality housing—particularly for low- to mid-income families—
while limiting overdevelopment and repetitive businesses like car washes and banks. Infrastructure
improvements are a top priority, including widening key roads, adding bike and pedestrian paths,
enhancing safety features, and improving trafflc fiow. There is strong support for revitalizing
downtown, fostering local entrepreneurship, and attracting larger employers to strengthen the tax
base. In education, residents call for increased support for public schools, consideration of alternative
education options, and attention to youth behavior. Respondents requested public safety and
services to keep pace with growth, including expanded police, flre, and EMT coverage, and better
maintenance of sidewalks and streets. Environmental sustainability is also a key concern, with calls to
preserve open land, restore natural ecosystems, and promote community composting and nature-
based recreation. Finally, residents urge the city to focus on core services, spend tax dollars wisely,
and simplify guiding principles to ensure transparency, clarity, and long-term flscal responsibility.
Finally, the last question was open ended which allowed people to note anything speciflc they wanted
to address about the Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan update. The overall sentiment expressed deep
investment in the future of Waukee and a wish to see it grow intentionally, sustainably, and
inclusively. There’s a strong desire to preserve community character, manage growth wisely, and
prioritize infrastructure and affordability over fiashy or redundant development.
Existing Conditions Map
The existing conditions mapping tool on the Social Pinpoint platform has been available for the same
amount of time as the survey. While the survey has been closed, the map will be remaining open to
July 10, 2025
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Memorandum 5
allow additional engagement.
Respondents have the ability to
pinpoint speciflc locations in the city
where they have likes, dislikes,
suggestions for improvement,
mobility concerns, or other feedback.
As of this analysis, there have been
849 visitors and 203 comments from
90 contributors. Of these
contributions, 41% were ideas and
suggestions, 30% highlighted dislikes,
13% identifled liked locations, 16%
focused on mobility improvements,
and less than 0.5% fell into other.
The majority of feedback centered on
desired improvements, particularly
related to trafflc safety, crosswalks,
connectivity, signage, intersection
timing, and park amenities such as
splash pads, tree plantings, and dog
parks. A recurring concern involved
the city’s 18-hole golf course, with
some residents expressing frustration that Waukee taxpayers fund the course without receiving
beneflts such as discounted fees or priority access. Many negative comments overlapped with
mobility-related issues. On a positive note, residents acknowledged recent park improvements,
reinvestment into downtown, and amenities like the Fox Creek Pavilion and the enjoyable biking
experience along Olson Drive. Other highlights included appreciation for stormwater ponds and trails
near the Holmes Murphy area. Overall, the feedback refiects a community engaged in shaping a safer,
more connected, and amenity-rich Waukee.
All comments received to date, along with their corresponding addresses, are included in the attached
documentation. Comments were flltered by category and organized alphabetically by address for ease
of review. Please note the addresses might not be the exact location related to the comment but it is
relatively nearby.
Next Steps
In addition to the outreach summarized above, HKGi has been working on updating the Community
Context report to better understand existing conditions in Waukee. This report is intended to be
completed and shared with the City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission in late
summer/early fall in advance of a joint meeting to explore concepts and discuss proposed revisions to
key topic areas of the plan.
Attachments
July 10, 2025
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update
Memorandum 6
• Comprehensive Plan Audit Results
• Community Survey Results
• Community Existing Conditions Map Comments
Waukee Comprehensive Plan Audit Summary of Findings
In the iniƟal phase of the Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update project (2040 Plan update), the HKGi team
developed the Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update Audit. This audit was administered as a survey in
collaboraƟon with City officials and staff. The goal of the survey was to assess the current impact of the
comprehensive plan by idenƟfying what has worked well, what has not, and what remains relevant. It
also aimed to highlight areas that may need to be revisited, such as the vision and guiding principles, to
ensure that the updated plan conƟnues to reflect the community’s evolving needs and prioriƟes.
The 12-quesƟon survey was open for approximately four weeks, from May to June 2025. During this
Ɵme, Community Development staff encouraged parƟcipaƟon from department heads, Planning and
Zoning Commission members, and the City Council. A total of 16 individuals responded to the survey. Of
those that responded, 56% (9 respondents) were City staff, 31% (5 respondents) were board or
commission members, and 12.5% (2 respondents) were elected officials. Although this survey is a small
sample size and not every parƟcipant answered every quesƟon, the feedback collected offers insights
into the current plan’s performance and areas for improvement.
HKGi analyzed the responses to the comprehensive plan audit as part of the broader data collecƟon and
community understanding effort. These findings were helpful to guide the next steps in the 2040 Plan
update process, including potenƟal revisions and strategic prioriƟes. The survey responses were
organized into three overarching categories that reflect the current applicaƟon and effecƟveness of the
exisƟng plan including: usability, structure, and general updates.
Usability
Overall, the current Imagine 2040 plan (2040 Plan) is considered a valuable resource across all
departments. However, the survey revealed some notable gaps in its pracƟcal applicaƟon. As shown in
Exhibit 1, the plan is less frequently used for tasks such as report wriƟng, budget development, and the
creaƟon of work plans. This feedback highlights an opportunity to improve the plan’s usability in these
areas, ensuring it beƩer supports implementaƟon and operaƟonal decision-making. Among the most
frequently used secƟons of the 2040 plan are land use and housing, noted in Exhibit 2, which
respondents idenƟfied as especially helpful. AddiƟonally, a unique perspecƟve from a respondent whom
selected “other” noted that the plan is used to support funding decisions aligned with Council prioriƟes.
Which is a consideraƟon that may be useful to highlight in the 2040 Plan update, as that is an important
aspect of implementaƟon.
Exhibit 1: Usability
Exhibit 2: Frequently Used SecƟons
Structure and FuncƟonality
The structure and funcƟonality of the current 2040 Plan play a role in how effecƟve it is to access and
apply its content. Overall, respondents seemed to agree that the plan’s structure has been successful in
helping them locate and reference key informaƟon. This consensus suggests that the organizaƟon and
layout of the plan are working well for its intended use.
Specific implementaƟon successes highlighted included:
1. City Center Concept Plan
0246810121416
Communicating Priorities
Inform Policy Decisions
Creating Work Plans
Setting Budgets
Making day to day decisions
Report Writing
Plan Usability
0 (Not used at all)3 (Neutral)5 (Very useful)
024681012
Vision and Guiding Princples
Land Use
Economic Development
Housing
Parks, Trails and Open Space
Transportation and Mobility
Community Facilities and Infrastructure
Implementation
Other
Frequently Used Sections
2. The City’s ability to engage in smart and strategic planning. Respondents praised the dedicated
staff who have adapted to Waukee’s rapid growth, parƟcularly in managing commercial and
residenƟal developments. This growth has supported new employment opportuniƟes, the
funding of parks and trails, and the coordinaƟon of public infrastructure and ameniƟes.
3. Key projects cited as examples of successful implementaƟon include Apple, Fleet Farm,
KeƩlestone, the new high school, and the Grand Prairie Parkway Corridor.
Most respondents did not idenƟfy any elements of the plan that were ineffecƟve, though there were a
few suggesƟons for improvement. These included:
1. The need to beƩer idenƟfy areas with infrastructure limitaƟons (e.g., access, topography), noƟng
that while SecƟon 8 of the plan provides strong mapping and goal-seƫng, it can be difficult to
draw clear conclusions.
2. A recommendaƟon to refine and possibly reduce the number of goals to improve clarity and
focus.
3. Minor, development-specific modificaƟons have been made over Ɵme that don’t directly align
with the 2019 plan, suggesƟng a need to clarify a need for flexibility in the updates.
General Updates
The remaining survey responses were grouped into a category of general updates, suggesƟons, and
observaƟons that point to areas where the current plan could be expanded or refined. As the number of
responses was limited, all relevant feedback regarding missing elements or updates to the vision and
guiding principles have been included below:
1. IncorporaƟon of the Civic Campus Master Plan to reflect recent planning efforts and future civic
development.
2. EvaluaƟon and potenƟal update of the KeƩlestone land use map, with a focus on ensuring a
balanced mix of commercial and residenƟal uses to support a sustainable tax base.
3. Updated planning for the northwest areas around Triumph Park and Waukee NW to reflect
ongoing development and infrastructure needs.
4. Future planning for the southwest high school site, including how its development may influence
growth paƩerns and infrastructure needs in the surrounding area.
5. Tax base strategy—a recurring quesƟon among stakeholders is whether the City has the right
balance between single-family housing, mulƟ-family housing, and commercial development. A
clearer understanding of this balance, especially in comparison to best pracƟces in similar
communiƟes, would be valuable for staff, commissioners, and stakeholders.
6. ConservaƟon and land preservaƟon as a growing priority in light of conƟnued development.
7. Cultural competency and inclusive engagement—recognizing Waukee’s changing demographics,
there is a need to ensure the plan reflects diverse voices and equitable access to community
resources.
8. Alignment of the major streets plan and transportaƟon plan to ensure consistency and
integraƟon in future infrastructure planning.
9. Accessibility improvements—including features such as sidewalk ramps, inclusive park play
surfaces, and other elements that enhance mobility and access for all residents.
Several respondents also offered ideas for key stakeholders and engagement strategies to consider
during the 2040 Plan update process:
1. Waukee Community School District (WCSD), conƟnued collaboraƟon with Dr. Buck, Kirk J., and
Durham Bus Services to align planning with school transportaƟon and facility needs.
2. Sharing links and informaƟon about engagement events with City staff, commissioners, board
members, and Council members in advance and encouraging them to repost on social media can
significantly increase visibility and parƟcipaƟon.
3. Engaging major developers and employers can help align infrastructure and land use planning
with economic development goals.
4. Including youth voices in the planning process is essenƟal, as the community is ulƟmately being
shaped for their future. Their hopes and ideas can offer fresh perspecƟves and support the long-
term vision.
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57.50%184
24.38%78
17.19%55
31.87%102
7.50%24
51.88%166
79.38%254
25.00%80
5.31%17
Q1 What are your favorite things about Waukee? (Select all the apply)
Answered: 320 Sk ipped: 0
Total Respondents : 320
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 We love that everyone is so friendly and helpful 6/27/2025 7:38 AM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Schools
Ho using options
Infrastr uctur e,
like streets
and utilities
Being near
family and
friends
Work
o pportunitites
Outdoor
recreation and
amenities, l ...
Quality of
life (safe,
convenient, ...
Sense of
community
Other (pl ease
s pecify)
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Schools
Hous ing options
Infrastructure, like streets and utilities
Being near f amily and f riends
Work opport unitites
Outdoor rec reation and amenities, like parks, trails and green spaces
Quality of lif e (safe, c onv enient, and c omfortable)
Sens e of c ommunity
Other (please s pecify)
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2 Old Wauk ee was far better, f ewer people, muc h less traffic 6/25/2025 5:01 AM
3 All the new bus ines s and restaurants and even bars 6/25/2025 1:38 AM
4 Library 6/24/2025 4:00 PM
5 Safe 6/24/2025 11:09 AM
6 It’s a clean c ity 6/24/2025 10:20 AM
7 The people 6/18/2025 4:41 PM
8 Location, easy commute to DM 6/11/2025 12:29 PM
9 Commerc ial growth - new restaurants , opportunities , etc 6/11/2025 11:00 AM
10 Integrating green s paces, park s , trails, lakes into communities 6/3/2025 8:37 AM
11 Div ers ity 5/29/2025 2:44 PM
12 Prioritiz ation of planning hous ing and leisure areas wit h ec ological animal habitats and plant
replacement in mindnt and k eeping the c ommercial areas s eparate
5/24/2025 5:44 PM
13 I've liv ed here all my lif e.5/22/2025 6:02 PM
14 bik e trails 5/17/2025 9:09 AM
15 There isn’t a lot that I lov e about Waukee 5/14/2025 6:10 PM
16 Healthc are 5/14/2025 3:41 PM
17 Parks are great and 5/14/2025 10:00 AM
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Q2 In a word or phrase what is Waukee’s greatest asset?
Answered: 230 Sk ipped: 90
#RESPONSES DATE
1 Small town feel 6/29/2025 12:06 PM
2 Schools 6/28/2025 6:15 PM
3 Location 6/28/2025 6:11 PM
4 Growth opportunities 6/28/2025 4:36 PM
5 Its schools 6/28/2025 4:36 PM
6 Newness 6/28/2025 7:24 AM
7 Small town feel with big city real 6/28/2025 5:34 AM
8 Safe c ommunity 6/27/2025 9:26 PM
9 Nic e 6/27/2025 2:52 PM
10 Safety 6/27/2025 2:30 PM
11 Growth 6/27/2025 2:15 PM
12 The Triangle 6/27/2025 11:31 AM
13 It’s growth, s pecific ally with busines s es and restaurants .6/27/2025 10:15 AM
14 The park s y s tem.6/27/2025 10:10 AM
15 The people 6/27/2025 9:31 AM
16 Clean 6/27/2025 7:55 AM
17 Clean 6/27/2025 7:38 AM
18 Small feel with large town benef its. Family friendly 6/27/2025 6:58 AM
19 Small town v ibe with big c ity benefits 6/26/2025 10:51 PM
20 It’s people 6/26/2025 9:58 PM
21 Schools 6/26/2025 6:28 PM
22 Safe 6/26/2025 12:31 PM
23 The people 6/25/2025 7:07 PM
24 space 6/25/2025 5:50 PM
25 Small and the old downtown is f abulous 6/25/2025 2:38 PM
26 Schools 6/25/2025 2:15 PM
27 Youth 6/25/2025 12:50 PM
28 access to es s ential needs 6/25/2025 10:30 AM
29 Great s c hools 6/25/2025 7:24 AM
30 It's his tory and longtime residents .6/25/2025 5:01 AM
31 Small town feel with big city acces s 6/25/2025 4:01 AM
32 Growth 6/25/2025 1:38 AM
33 Triumph Park 6/24/2025 9:46 PM
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34 Schools 6/24/2025 9:45 PM
35 Home 6/24/2025 8:42 PM
36 N/A 6/24/2025 8:29 PM
37 Youth 6/24/2025 8:21 PM
38 Proximity to daily nec essities like schools, grocery stores and restaurants 6/24/2025 7:25 PM
39 Ability to grow and ev olve 6/24/2025 6:16 PM
40 Really new facilities and infastructure 6/24/2025 5:20 PM
41 The people!6/24/2025 5:06 PM
42 Dis tanc e to des moines but also several surrounding communities 6/24/2025 4:43 PM
43 Schools, growth 6/24/2025 4:30 PM
44 Schools 6/24/2025 4:23 PM
45 Schools 6/24/2025 4:01 PM
46 Schools 6/24/2025 4:00 PM
47 Dis tanc e from Des Moines and prox imity to Jordan Creek 6/24/2025 3:58 PM
48 Conv enienc e 6/24/2025 3:53 PM
49 Schools 6/24/2025 3:40 PM
50 Schools and safe 6/24/2025 2:43 PM
51 Location 6/24/2025 2:24 PM
52 Outdoor c ommunity s pac es 6/24/2025 2:24 PM
53 Growth 6/24/2025 2:17 PM
54 The people 6/24/2025 1:56 PM
55 Centraliz ed Location 6/24/2025 1:45 PM
56 Safe c ommunity 6/24/2025 1:44 PM
57 Community 6/24/2025 1:41 PM
58 Rec reation spac es 6/24/2025 12:50 PM
59 Waukee pride and communit y 6/24/2025 12:46 PM
60 Infrastruc ture 6/24/2025 12:40 PM
61 Safety 6/24/2025 12:39 PM
62 The schools 6/24/2025 12:26 PM
63 Good s c hools 6/24/2025 12:21 PM
64 Great s c hools 6/24/2025 12:13 PM
65 Location 6/24/2025 12:06 PM
66 Single family hous ing 6/24/2025 11:59 AM
67 Community 6/24/2025 11:58 AM
68 Proximity to grocery stores , doctor/dentis t offic es, etc 6/24/2025 11:57 AM
69 Schools 6/24/2025 11:48 AM
70 Parks, landscaping, k eeping the c ity look ing c lean.6/24/2025 11:47 AM
71 Schools 6/24/2025 11:44 AM
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72 Schools 6/24/2025 11:20 AM
73 Schools 6/24/2025 11:18 AM
74 Schools 6/24/2025 11:15 AM
75 School s ystem 6/24/2025 11:12 AM
76 High c eiling for growth going wes t 6/24/2025 11:09 AM
77 Pos itive vis ion for the future 6/24/2025 11:08 AM
78 The achools 6/24/2025 11:04 AM
79 School district, f amily friendly neighbors. Low crime 6/24/2025 10:57 AM
80 Parks 6/24/2025 10:57 AM
81 Nothing 6/24/2025 10:51 AM
82 Small town feel 6/24/2025 10:49 AM
83 Variety of businesses in close commute 6/24/2025 9:58 AM
84 Growing communit y 6/24/2025 9:50 AM
85 Communtiy 6/24/2025 9:47 AM
86 Our schools and our City st aff 6/24/2025 9:39 AM
87 Community 6/24/2025 9:29 AM
88 Location 6/24/2025 9:21 AM
89 Still has a s mall town feel 6/24/2025 9:17 AM
90 Parks 6/23/2025 2:13 PM
91 Children 6/22/2025 9:00 PM
92 quality of life 6/22/2025 10:08 AM
93 The people 6/18/2025 4:41 PM
94 Parks, s hopping 6/17/2025 1:53 PM
95 Small town feel in a v ibrant, growing c ity.6/17/2025 1:39 PM
96 Brand 6/17/2025 10:06 AM
97 Calming 6/17/2025 7:30 AM
98 Small town feel, nic e people 6/14/2025 6:31 AM
99 The people and s ense of community 6/13/2025 7:40 PM
100 Clean and peaceful 6/13/2025 9:51 AM
101 Can get new houses easily 6/12/2025 9:46 PM
102 Location and div ers ity of businesses 6/12/2025 9:30 PM
103 Community 6/12/2025 7:47 PM
104 Sens e of c ommunity, Roads and sidewalk upkeep.6/12/2025 7:36 PM
105 People 6/12/2025 2:19 PM
106 Safe areas , clos e into s hopping, medical, servic es.6/12/2025 11:15 AM
107 Great leis ure opport unities 6/12/2025 10:24 AM
108 We hav e the money to do great things 6/12/2025 10:16 AM
109 Community 6/12/2025 9:34 AM
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110 Growth 6/12/2025 7:26 AM
111 Schools 6/11/2025 11:19 PM
112 Conv enienc e 6/11/2025 10:57 PM
113 Chiroprac tic office or nail salons 6/11/2025 9:49 PM
114 It’s people 6/11/2025 9:28 PM
115 Homey yet up & coming 6/11/2025 8:42 PM
116 Friendly 6/11/2025 8:19 PM
117 Small town feel 6/11/2025 6:07 PM
118 Well locat ed and good inf ras tructure 6/11/2025 3:06 PM
119 It builds for c ars , pedestrians, and bicyc les.6/11/2025 1:53 PM
120 Schools 6/11/2025 1:03 PM
121 It feels s mall ev en as it grows.6/11/2025 12:32 PM
122 Keep small town feel 6/11/2025 12:29 PM
123 Quality of lif e 6/11/2025 12:23 PM
124 Community 6/11/2025 12:20 PM
125 amenities 6/11/2025 12:11 PM
126 Clean, safe, bright, energetic 6/11/2025 12:00 PM
127 The Triangle 6/11/2025 11:40 AM
128 basic ly new dev elopment ov er the pas t twenty y ears .6/11/2025 11:38 AM
129 Potent ial. This c ommunity c ould be great, but there seems to be t oo many people not
understanding it's growing and want it to remain lik e it was 20 years ago.
6/11/2025 11:31 AM
130 Div ers ity 6/11/2025 11:27 AM
131 Ability to ex pand 6/11/2025 11:00 AM
132 Not s ure 6/11/2025 10:58 AM
133 Schools 6/11/2025 10:57 AM
134 Actual city planning 6/11/2025 10:45 AM
135 Growth potential 6/11/2025 10:41 AM
136 Acc es s 6/11/2025 10:34 AM
137 Bik e trails and low crime 6/11/2025 10:31 AM
138 Infrastruc ture 6/11/2025 10:25 AM
139 Siz e 6/11/2025 10:21 AM
140 Small town feel 6/10/2025 11:00 PM
141 “Free” trash/yardwas te 6/10/2025 10:12 PM
142 Connec tivity 6/10/2025 2:42 PM
143 Intersect ion of c onvenient living and nature/s mall t own vibe 6/10/2025 12:22 PM
144 Waukee is easy. The layout, the paths, kid friendly and easy.6/9/2025 2:19 PM
145 Library 6/8/2025 9:03 PM
146 Prosperous 6/8/2025 7:50 PM
147 The community and s c hool spirit 6/8/2025 1:16 PM
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148 Small town c ity 6/8/2025 9:33 AM
149 Friendly c ommunity 6/6/2025 7:08 PM
150 Dev elopment 6/6/2025 6:14 AM
151 Wealth 6/5/2025 10:13 PM
152 Growth 6/5/2025 1:40 PM
153 Parks 6/5/2025 12:32 PM
154 Schools 6/5/2025 12:08 PM
155 Green space 6/5/2025 11:22 AM
156 Small town feel, big town amenities 6/5/2025 10:51 AM
157 Schools 6/5/2025 10:50 AM
158 Nic e and c lean community. Willing to build parks. The Community Development Direc tor's
willingnes s to lis ten.
6/4/2025 9:45 PM
159 As a res ident of Waukee sinc e 1960's what used to be Waukee assets are now dimins hed.6/4/2025 5:53 PM
160 Newness 6/4/2025 2:33 PM
161 Community 6/3/2025 5:54 PM
162 Able to integrate green spac e, trails, lakes and parks int o the community.6/3/2025 8:37 AM
163 Eas y t o ac c ess plac es 6/2/2025 1:39 PM
164 Educ ation 5/30/2025 9:26 PM
165 The people 5/29/2025 7:33 PM
166 Quality of lif e in a s afe community 5/29/2025 5:54 PM
167 Acc es s to s tores et c 5/29/2025 4:36 PM
168 Proximity to Des Moines and i80 5/29/2025 2:58 PM
169 Affordability 5/29/2025 2:44 PM
170 As built up as it has become ov er t he last 20 y ears, it is s till largely a blank canv as . It has a
lot of pot ential, only a small portion of whic h is captured by this plan.
5/29/2025 10:21 AM
171 Parks and rec 5/28/2025 1:20 PM
172 Growth mindset 5/28/2025 12:01 PM
173 Leaders 5/28/2025 12:06 AM
174 Green spaces 5/27/2025 8:47 AM
175 The downtown triangle gives it a s mall town feel 5/26/2025 6:16 AM
176 The small-town feel 5/25/2025 3:05 PM
177 outdoor recreation---trails , ponds, greens paces,5/24/2025 5:44 PM
178 The small town feel.5/23/2025 5:29 PM
179 the people, the public servic e - polic e, EMT, fire 5/23/2025 11:20 AM
180 schools 5/22/2025 9:12 PM
181 Opportunity 5/22/2025 6:30 PM
182 The people.5/22/2025 6:02 PM
183 Opportunities 5/22/2025 4:52 PM
184 Location 5/19/2025 8:03 PM
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185 Community 5/19/2025 10:06 AM
186 trails and ponds 5/17/2025 9:09 AM
187 It feels lik e a family town, a place where you want to rais e your kids 5/16/2025 11:08 PM
188 The upside of growt h and ev ery thing that c omes with it.5/16/2025 10:04 AM
189 The upside of growt h.5/16/2025 9:58 AM
190 Parks 5/16/2025 12:40 AM
191 Peac eful env ironment 5/15/2025 4:18 PM
192 Growth potential 5/15/2025 4:18 PM
193 Community 5/15/2025 8:02 AM
194 Their parks!5/15/2025 7:40 AM
195 It's clean, safe, and the roads being built c urrently are s ufficient for future growth 5/14/2025 11:11 PM
196 School district 5/14/2025 11:07 PM
197 Community 5/14/2025 10:03 PM
198 Safety 5/14/2025 9:12 PM
199 Location 5/14/2025 8:21 PM
200 Location 5/14/2025 4:00 PM
201 Community 5/14/2025 3:41 PM
202 Commitment to c ommunity 5/14/2025 3:17 PM
203 The school s y s tem 5/14/2025 3:02 PM
204 Things are clos e and eas y to get to.5/14/2025 2:59 PM
205 trails 5/14/2025 2:24 PM
206 the sc hools are the reason we stay ed here 5/14/2025 2:14 PM
207 Educ ation 5/14/2025 1:34 PM
208 People 5/14/2025 1:21 PM
209 Schools 5/14/2025 1:10 PM
210 Solid people.5/14/2025 12:44 PM
211 Hous ing 5/14/2025 12:28 PM
212 Growth with planning 5/14/2025 12:16 PM
213 Safety. Family 5/14/2025 11:58 AM
214 Location 5/14/2025 11:37 AM
215 Small town v ibe connec ted to a big c ity 5/14/2025 11:12 AM
216 Growth 5/14/2025 11:07 AM
217 Safety, low c rime 5/14/2025 10:41 AM
218 growth 5/14/2025 10:36 AM
219 Safe, c lean, and c lose prox imity to downtown.5/14/2025 10:34 AM
220 Quality neighbors 5/14/2025 10:31 AM
221 Location 5/14/2025 10:23 AM
222 Growth Potnential & Schools 5/14/2025 10:05 AM
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223 Schools 5/14/2025 10:03 AM
224 Progressiv e Family Env ironment 5/14/2025 10:02 AM
225 Schools and Parks 5/14/2025 10:00 AM
226 Schools 5/14/2025 9:56 AM
227 strategic growth 5/14/2025 9:50 AM
228 Schools and park s 5/14/2025 9:44 AM
229 Liv ability 5/14/2025 9:40 AM
230 Test 5/7/2025 9:35 AM
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19.06%61
30.00%96
32.81%105
21.25%68
39.69%127
40.94%131
25.94%83
61.56%197
17.50%56
Q3 What challenges do you think Waukee will face in the next 10-20
years? (Select all that apply)
Answered: 320 Sk ipped: 0
Total Respondents : 320
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Access to
essential needs
and ser vices...
Attracting and
keeping
businesses
City budget
Changing
climat e and
w eather, suc...
Housing, such
as age,
qual ity, cos...
Population
change, like
aging, grow i...
Public safety
Infrastr uctur e,
l ike quality or
costs to kee...
Other (pl ease
s pecify)
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Acces s to essent ial needs and s erv ices, lik e healthcare, internet , quality food or jobs
At tracting and keeping businesses
City budget
Changing climate and weather, suc h as more droughts, flooding and wind storms
Hous ing, s uc h as age, quality, cost and hav ing enough options
Population change, like aging, growing or declining
Public safety
Infrastructure, like qualit y or cost s to keep up streets and utilities s uch as water, s ewer, gas and elec tric
Other (please s pecify)
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1 Losing s ens e of community. The bigger a town get s the harder it is t o c reate a s ense of
communit y
6/28/2025 6:11 PM
2 Lack of green space…lack of t rees in the parks 6/28/2025 4:36 PM
3 High taxes 6/28/2025 7:24 AM
4 Would lov e to see a public ac c ess to bus ing into the Des Moines area hos pitals, ac tive senior
cent er, and a cut in senior or disabled property tax es . My elderly mother and my disabled s elf
never dreamed we would lov e Wauk ee as much as we do! Keep up the great, quality work !!!
6/27/2025 7:38 AM
5 Conges tion and ov erpopulation and increased tax es 6/26/2025 10:51 PM
6 Correc t hous ing, not cheap new builds 6/26/2025 9:58 PM
7 Mobilit y. Our identity is auto-oriented and it 'll be a boring c ommunity in the future.6/26/2025 12:31 PM
8 Waukee is st arting to attract the “wrong” ty pe of res idents with all the apart ments going up any
plac e there is room.
6/25/2025 5:49 AM
9 Keeping cost s low f or everyone ins tead of c atering to people c oming here. More law
enforc ement and traffic c ontrol
6/25/2025 5:01 AM
10 Traffic control 6/24/2025 8:19 PM
11 Traffic congestion. Mis timed s top light s along Hickman will only c ompound the is s ue.6/24/2025 4:01 PM
12 Water quality 6/24/2025 1:44 PM
13 Keeping a c ommunity identit y while growing so fast 6/24/2025 11:49 AM
14 The school dist rict supports all s urrounding c ommunities. The lines are constant ly being
redone and it’s not cons istent. It’s not fair to our kids.
6/24/2025 11:18 AM
15 Property t ax is too high 6/24/2025 11:09 AM
16 Need big malls 6/24/2025 10:51 AM
17 Infrastruc ture again. It’s a mes s 6/24/2025 9:47 AM
18 Bringing in loc al businesses ins tead of c hains 6/24/2025 9:11 AM
19 City Debt paid with property tax es . Community wants like s wimming pools, with limited water
res ourc es . Do we hav e enough wat er t owers? Why c an't we normally water on Monday s ?
Water quality and air quality. Keep wind turbines f ar away from city limits. State legislation
res ulting in negative c ommunity impacts .
6/18/2025 4:41 PM
20 los s of trees / green s pace due to dev elopment 6/17/2025 10:06 AM
21 School c osts due to s tate voucher programs 6/15/2025 1:30 PM
22 Preserving open land 6/14/2025 7:20 AM
23 High propert y taxes 6/14/2025 6:31 AM
24 Lack of parks and outdoor spac e for c ert ain neighborhoods 6/13/2025 7:40 PM
25 Amenities for s eniors. Seems the community is foc used on appeasing a younger population.6/13/2025 9:51 AM
26 Speeding down residential streets 6/12/2025 9:46 PM
27 Keeping up with development t o k eep people wanting to live here. Very few local restaurants ,
not enough infras tructure to s upport the c ommunity will leave people looking elsewhere.
6/12/2025 10:16 AM
28 Lack of green space and development taking down all of the f ores ts t hat are left 6/11/2025 1:20 PM
29 Keeping small town feel 6/11/2025 12:29 PM
30 Not enough sit down restaurants.6/11/2025 11:40 AM
31 Waukee has the highest propert y tax 6/11/2025 10:58 AM
32 Lack of blue s pace lik e large ponds/lakes with walk ing paths. Thes e paths need benc hes s o
older people in the community can walk for a while and s it and rest before walk ing further.
6/11/2025 10:45 AM
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33 Property t axes are too muc h for s eniors 6/11/2025 10:31 AM
34 Fuckin ponds 6/10/2025 10:12 PM
35 Childc are and rent costs are unbearable 6/8/2025 9:03 PM
36 Env ironmental des truction 6/5/2025 10:13 PM
37 Schools 6/5/2025 10:41 AM
38 evaluate t he ratio of rentals to s ingle family; quality of new builds and how they age; what do
we want the city to look like in the nex t 10-20-30 y ears
6/5/2025 9:15 AM
39 Trash/Was te Management 6/3/2025 5:54 PM
40 Keeping high quality of amenities and s erv ices 6/3/2025 8:37 AM
41 Growing too fast for local ec onomy to k eep up 5/29/2025 2:44 PM
42 The New Pioneer Gun Range is loc ated too clos e to the Waukee Civic Campus, schools, and
soccer fields . Relocating them t o a more remote locat ion would not only improve quality of life,
but also c reate a more welcoming env ironment to out-of-t own vis it ors and increas e the tax able
value of the surrounding properties.
5/28/2025 12:01 PM
43 You cannot liv e in Waukee without a c ar 5/27/2025 8:47 AM
44 We need more affordable single story hous ing f or seniors .5/26/2025 6:16 AM
45 Bringing in af fordable s hopping options lik e TJ Maxx , Marshall's and Sam's Club 5/24/2025 5:44 PM
46 working on improving the roads and doing something about the awful drinking water 5/23/2025 11:20 AM
47 growing too muc h traffic is getting wors e. Hickman is really crowded 5/22/2025 9:12 PM
48 Waukee cont inues to lack ordinanc e enforcement 5/22/2025 6:02 PM
49 longtime residents are going to s truggle wit h the changes that c ome with growth.5/16/2025 10:04 AM
50 Transic servic e 5/15/2025 5:05 PM
51 TAXES I NCREASING BECAUSE OF POOR PLANNING 5/14/2025 11:11 PM
52 pleas e please not s o many apartments. We have blocks and bloc k s in s ome areas NO MORE 5/14/2025 3:26 PM
53 no c ity pool, and mas s ive city complex being built ins tead of a pool, no indoor winter
infrastructure (indoor rec c enter etc ).
5/14/2025 2:14 PM
54 Poor c ity planning. Issuing building permits but not realiz ing the increas ed road use t hat would
res ult in the new dev elopments. Really bad planning.
5/14/2025 12:28 PM
55 Creating spaces for gathering. Creating opportunities for more independent retail stores and
res taurants (fewer chains ). Creating outdoor spac es and parks that actually have trees ,
streams, flowers etc.
5/14/2025 11:12 AM
56 Affordable liv ing in general 5/14/2025 10:34 AM
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Q4 Are there any amenities or services in communities you've visited or
lived in before, that you think would benefit Waukee?
Answered: 213 Sk ipped: 107
#RESPONSES DATE
1 Priv ate schools 6/29/2025 12:07 PM
2 Activ e, vibrant c ity c enter with gathering places lik e restaurants , family zones , etc . plac es
people c an walk or ride their bik es to gather with friends and family. Somewhere like the
exis ting triangle, but bigger with more things to do and experienc e.
6/28/2025 6:23 PM
3 Less repeat bus inesses like car washes, nail s alons, etc ! We need more recreat ional
activities. Why would you put a realtor office right in front of Vibrant hall, our one unique
venue?!? More roundabouts to handle flow of traffic
6/28/2025 4:39 PM
4 WDM has s ome beautiful green spac es .6/28/2025 4:38 PM
5 Lower tax es 6/28/2025 7:24 AM
6 A communit y pool or water park 6/28/2025 5:36 AM
7 None 6/27/2025 9:38 PM
8 Aquatic Center 6/27/2025 2:47 PM
9 Bik ing lanes, walking trails 6/27/2025 2:34 PM
10 Mobile Redemption Center to tak e bac k deposit c ontainers 6/27/2025 11:33 AM
11 Outdoor aquatic center. More sit down restaurants.6/27/2025 10:17 AM
12 Public trans portation. Wit h the high traffic load on main roads , it would be great to have a
transit system, espec ially one that connec ts to DART in s ome way.
6/27/2025 9:41 AM
13 More indoor activ ities for all during cold weather, bett er planning for rest aurants and shops ,
may be area with local restaurants , shops and plac es to entertain
6/27/2025 8:48 AM
14 Currently, there is nowhere in Waukee to redeem used beverage c ontainers. A mobile
redemption c enter would be a clean and c onvenient solution. Kansas City has an excellent
program with Ripple glass, this would be very s imilar but better, becaus e the citiz ens would
rec eive money for their part icipation!
6/27/2025 7:59 AM
15 Dinnerdate f or seniors . Neighborhood watches . Benc hes and public s eating 24-25" f or people
with back problems . Park benches have become very low in new Park s .
6/27/2025 7:52 AM
16 Aquatic c enter. Entertainment c enter 6/27/2025 6:59 AM
17 More play ground equipment s uitable for 5 and under k ids .6/26/2025 10:52 PM
18 We need a t rampoline park, J ersey Mik e’s, Costc o and a ninja warrior gym 6/26/2025 10:01 PM
19 A swimming pool. A bigger library that is able to of fer more act ivities for kids . More opt ions for
fitness that doesn’t break the bank . More park s where the walking trails feel like you’re in the
woods (think Rac c oon Riv er).
6/26/2025 6:30 PM
20 Roads that are designed for people not c ars . We're a typic al suburb with not hing t oo
dis tinc tive.
6/26/2025 12:38 PM
21 More sports complexes for yout h s ports.6/25/2025 7:08 PM
22 Swimming pool, more restaurants, more small bus iness es (boutiques / clothing), upgrade
downtown
6/25/2025 2:39 PM
23 Affordable (less than $5) indoor act ivities for y oung children(under 5 years old), like the
Rec Plex t oddler time, or Des Moines children's museum.
6/25/2025 2:19 PM
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24 Pool,more s hopping s tores or a big shopping mall 6/25/2025 7:27 AM
25 I’d love a bigger library 6/25/2025 7:25 AM
26 Please mak e a park for c hildren just like the Laurtiz en Gardens in Omaha! It is amazing! A
plac e for a bigger f armers market.
6/25/2025 5:52 AM
27 Waukee had exact ly what it needed. Now it's a big city with big c ity problems lik e c rime,
overcrowding, traffic law enforcement , et c.
6/25/2025 5:03 AM
28 I would lov e to have more shaded t rails with mature trees. Green spac es and s c enic parks are
lac k ing in comparis on to nearby c ities like Urbandale, West Des Moines, etc.
6/25/2025 4:08 AM
29 A more robust trail sy s tem, community pools/waterpark, more neighborhood park s t o play in, a
larger public library
6/24/2025 9:47 PM
30 More community based events c atered to different aged groups . I.e mommy & me, toddler
bookclub, teen hangouts, 21+ ev ents
6/24/2025 9:47 PM
31 Bigger or s econd library. Aquat ic center. Youth c enter. Center of c ommunity pond/plaza.
Mus eum. Arcade. Indoor adventure gy m. Zoo.
6/24/2025 8:25 PM
32 Aquatic c enter, more parks with connecting trails and more development around Waukee
triangle
6/24/2025 7:26 PM
33 Aquatic c enter...outdoor pools 6/24/2025 6:17 PM
34 Somet hing similar to t he Valley Community Center in Wes t Des Moines would be amazing for
the community. I also t hink somet hing like a Sonic would be really fun on Hickman. More
natural plays c apes or learning c enters . Expand bus routes s o there are more stops for the
growing c ommunity. Lastly, some ty pe of outdoor amphitheater area could be c ool. We could
host c ommunity theater or it could be a place for outdoor weddings , yout h group ceremonies ,
and loc al arts performances.
6/24/2025 5:31 PM
35 Family restaurant.6/24/2025 5:19 PM
36 Only in my home country of South Af rica. We had community s wimming pools which were free
of charge!
6/24/2025 5:08 PM
37 A drive in theater. Pull up/driv e through convenience stores . Adult only times at public
pools /water park s. We need more opt ions bes ides plain burgers in Wauk ee. Attrac t HuHot,
faz olis , hardees, applebees , texas roadhouse. If marijuana is legaliz ed-dispens aries(easy $$$).
We need an independent can redemption c enter not locat ed in a s tore. We can either have
people s tay and wait f or cans t o be c ounted or they can be mailed a chec k for the
amount/maybe paid v irtually ? A 24 hour c linic that is nt the ER (ex emplar c are like the one off
jordan creek park way). A laundromat that is modern but affordable. More s eats/plac es to sit at
all public parks /spac es s o t hey’re more acc es s ible to people who need to rest while out.
6/24/2025 4:52 PM
38 The pool referendum needed to get thru - Wauk ee is severely lac king in amenities relat ive
to,other met ro cities - ie Cliv e, who enjoy a much lower tax base. Build a destinat ion
communit y pool.
6/24/2025 4:39 PM
39 I lov e Wes t Des Moines . I wish Waukee would start to structure more lik e Wes t Des Moines . I
wis h they would build a Cost co here. A Trader Joe’s als o!
6/24/2025 4:25 PM
40 More sit down restaurants. Grew up in Dallas /Fort Worth, the lack of restaurants in Wauk ee is
appalling. More two lane roads .
6/24/2025 4:07 PM
41 I really love the new library’s in our surrounding communities lik e Grimes and Ankeny. We
have outgrown the current library and t he c ommunity would really benefit from a new one. It’s
one of the few places in soc iety y ou c an go and it’s free and s uc h a resource for the
communit y.
6/24/2025 4:01 PM
42 Indoor community cent er with rec cent er, indoor pool, splas h pad, pic k leball, dentist c enter. In
one building wit h indoor options. We do not need any more out door facilities that c an only be
used a fraction of the year. Take a look at the rec center in Chanhas sen, MN. It is amazing!
6/24/2025 3:57 PM
43 Yes, in Waukee we need more swimming pools and water Parks. We need more trees along
side walks and benches to help during hot s eason.
6/24/2025 3:42 PM
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44 I would like to see more div ers it y of businesses to shop. Right now, there’s so many coffee
shops & car washes. But , no clothing boutiques, c raft s tores, antique s tores, or jewelers. I
realiz e we are clos e to the mall, but it would be nice to support local bright here. Also, how
about a movie theater?
6/24/2025 3:30 PM
45 Greenbelt trails , dirt bike trails in the woods or alongside multiuse pat hs, bas ically anyt hing
that gets people out of cars and onto bik es or walking.
6/24/2025 3:18 PM
46 More parks lik e Wes t Des Moines has !6/24/2025 3:03 PM
47 Community Pool. Appropriately s ized main roads and traf fic light timing t o allow for s afe trans it
throughout the c ity.
6/24/2025 2:40 PM
48 More multius e areas. Businesses integrated int o neighborhoods /residential communities 6/24/2025 2:26 PM
49 No 6/24/2025 2:19 PM
50 Pool(indoor/outdoor option!), no more car washes or oil change places! We need more family
friendly restaurants that aren’t s uper ex pensiv e. Donut shop! Chic k fila
6/24/2025 1:59 PM
51 The high speed internet conduit system in Wes t Des Moines (f ormer place of residence) was
life changing.
6/24/2025 1:49 PM
52 Pool.6/24/2025 1:48 PM
53 Needs an aquatic c enter 6/24/2025 1:42 PM
54 A city pool would be great, access to affordable sports programming for families that c annot
afford the high pric ed c lub teams for more than jus t the y oung elementary ages , continue to
grow green s pac e and park opt ions .
6/24/2025 12:53 PM
55 A communit y pool, local restaurants 6/24/2025 12:47 PM
56 Waukee needs more indoor recreation that is open to the community, spec if ically an indoor
aquatic center. Where I us ed to live, indoor aquatic c enters were always an option for kids to
stay ac tiv e during the winter months. Right now there is no community indoor aquat ic center in
the metro which is a huge downs ide to Living here
6/24/2025 12:28 PM
57 A Walmart super c enter will be fabulous.6/24/2025 12:22 PM
58 Would LOVE to s ee a local coffee and wine bar that has liv e music. Or one clos e to the new
amphitheater (I t hink one is going in?). J us t somewhere other t han a s port bar to enjoy a glas s
of wine or coc k tail and listen to mus ic.
6/24/2025 12:15 PM
59 More retail like may be a Walmart and Sam’s club 6/24/2025 12:07 PM
60 Buy surrounding farms and create a nature preserve so people can enjoy. Suc h as walnut
woods or rac oon riv er park. Hav e outdoor / nature parks vs play grounds. Pool, more bik e t rails .
6/24/2025 12:00 PM
61 More healthy food options 6/24/2025 11:59 AM
62 Stores lik e Mic hael’s, Home Depot, etc would keep people in the community more.6/24/2025 11:50 AM
63 Somet hing like wes t glen or prairie trail in Ank eny. More shopping opportunity and less “Merle
hay road” aut o-mile look . We have s o many car washes , lube shops , etc .
6/24/2025 11:50 AM
64 Community gardens s paces where people c an rent garden spac e. Also ins talling fruit trees
berry bushes on public spac es to feed the c ommunity. Exc es s es c an be donated to food
pant ry ’s and families s truggling to make end meet. I als o think we need to work on water
quality and try ing to lower iowas c ancer rates.
6/24/2025 11:25 AM
65 More res taurants in the triangle with cons ideration of a pedmall would be ideal. Expans ion of
the triangle to create more of a c ommunity.
6/24/2025 11:22 AM
66 More family restaurants 6/24/2025 11:22 AM
67 A trail system where you don’t hav e t o c ros s major intersections . Outdoor fitnes s s tations
along trails that are free.
6/24/2025 11:22 AM
68 More loc al res taurant options, not chain restaurants ,6/24/2025 11:21 AM
69 City pool.6/24/2025 11:20 AM
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70 Out door spac e. We mov ed here from Iowa c it y and v ery much miss the natural walking areas ,
trees, and the ped mall.
6/24/2025 11:17 AM
71 Metro bus s erv ices 6/24/2025 11:12 AM
72 Pool Street lights sync ed Connect the bik e paths 6/24/2025 11:10 AM
73 Place for k ids/teens to hangout, s upport those in need, c ommunity events that support local
vendors
6/24/2025 11:09 AM
74 communit y c enter with programs f or kids, adults , families, and senios 6/24/2025 10:59 AM
75 Lik e Jordan creek mall is needed and a man made lake 6/24/2025 10:51 AM
76 Small park s along walking t rails ! Also a c ity -county library sys tem. With the population growth
of t he western s uburbs , it would be so nic e to jus t have one big library sys tem.
6/24/2025 10:22 AM
77 Compost s elf s erv ice drop off. Lik e getting rid of produc e food scraps.6/24/2025 10:03 AM
78 Des Moines has so many locally owned res taurant s and Wauk ee has v ery few. I t’s mos tly
chains
6/24/2025 9:49 AM
79 Aquatic Center 6/24/2025 9:40 AM
80 More splash pads 6/24/2025 9:30 AM
81 Aquatic c enter 6/24/2025 9:22 AM
82 Outdoor pool/aquatic c enter 6/24/2025 9:17 AM
83 A plac e for people to gather and develop a sense of c ommunity. Bik e trails ac ros s entire
communit y.
6/24/2025 9:13 AM
84 Splash pads 6/23/2025 2:14 PM
85 Compost s erv ice Public t rans it Les s c atering to v ehic les, healthy communit ies are planned
around dedic ated pedes trian and cycling paths More loc al food options (stop the chains) Laws
that curb or limit short term rentals like Airbnb (keep a c it y where people actually liv e) Most
people want to liv e in a mix ed c ommercial and res idential atmosphere. think of 2-3 rest aurants
or shops or c ommunity tucked ins ide neighborhoods on a s ingle s treet or two. Just look at
Seattle as an ex ample, no one say s the street they live on, but rather the neighborhood they
are part of. Maybe I c ould be part "c entennial" or "the triangle" - we s hould dub little villages
within our community rather than "I live in waukee" then maybe each village c an hav e its own
shoppes or ev ents or c offee house, etc .
6/22/2025 9:14 PM
86 Public indoor/outdoor s wimming pool and water ac tiv it ies . Connec ted trails as neighborhoods
develop. Small parks s cattered in neighborhoods.
6/22/2025 2:21 PM
87 more shopping options 6/22/2025 10:11 AM
88 A better wat er source. Many, many more s hade trees in parks.6/18/2025 4:52 PM
89 Bigger parks with walking and biking paths similar to Washington Park , Denv er CO.6/17/2025 9:25 PM
90 larger c ommunity meet ing spac e 6/17/2025 1:40 PM
91 Community Garden Cap on spec ific businesses in a designated area we have plenty of Nail
plac es , Mexic an restaurants & car washes Bike Lanes Stations for dogs to "do their thing"
along trails and in park s Parking ramps Go up - or under not out Limit ed apartment c omplexes
Street names that stay the same from city t o c ity Alices road or grand prairie pk wy Well timed
street lights
6/17/2025 10:21 AM
92 The lac k of public transportation options. The c ity bus doesn't c ome far into Waukee making
transport ation a c hallenge if y ou don't hav e a car.
6/17/2025 7:31 AM
93 Public pool 6/15/2025 1:32 PM
94 More healthy eating options. A public pool. Sidewalk s /trails connecting the entire town.6/14/2025 7:22 AM
95 Green spaces . I don’t f eel like every inch of this city needs to be filled with s trip malls and
buildings . Stop cut ting down trees .
6/14/2025 6:43 AM
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96 More vibrant/family friendly downtown, more pocket parks similar to Adel. The Wes tgate
neighborhood does not have a readily ac c essible park within a half mile while there are t wo
separate empty lot s on Crabapple t hat could s erv e as poc k et parks.
6/13/2025 7:43 PM
97 Community bandshell t o hos t free weekly summer music events. Bik e trails to link ALL city
neighborhoods. Upgrade Ute from I-80 north.
6/13/2025 10:12 AM
98 Somet hing new that the other wes tern suburbs don't have 6/12/2025 9:47 PM
99 A dedic ated Senior center.6/12/2025 9:35 PM
100 Dog Parks, Public Indoor/outdoor Pool 6/12/2025 7:39 PM
101 Additional s idewalks to get to and f rom remote subdiv isions to schools and park s 6/12/2025 11:17 AM
102 Nature or Non-paved t rails 6/12/2025 10:30 AM
103 Pool, golf course, larger library, more loc al res taurants. Every thing is being s old to chains, we
need to subs idiz e s ome properties for loc al.
6/12/2025 10:19 AM
104 Animal assis tanc e resources separate from the polic e department 6/12/2025 9:37 AM
105 Bik e trails! Sidewalks ! For those living Wes t of UTE, (neighborhoods off of As hworth), we can't
get any where around town without a vehicle. I would lov e some sort of s idewalk or t rail t o
connec t to the rest of the trails around town.
6/12/2025 9:17 AM
106 Ik ea 6/12/2025 7:27 AM
107 Swimming pool, more t rails , expansion of additional lanes on Douglas Pkwy and wide roads
and lanes on Alic e's road, by pass on north side of waukee
6/11/2025 11:21 PM
108 Hik ing trails (see Southwoods Park in Wes t Des Moines or Greenwood Park in Des Moines for
examples ). Wauk ee has s ome good pav ed trails , but there are no trails designed jus t for hiking
in the woods.
6/11/2025 11:01 PM
109 Pool and bigger golf c ours e 6/11/2025 9:50 PM
110 Update and renovate Triangle as a unique gathering place.6/11/2025 9:31 PM
111 Traffic light c oordination- time the light s better. In a normal traffic flow y ou s houldn’t hit red
light after red light after red light .
6/11/2025 8:45 PM
112 Public pool. More tennis c ourts, indoor public tennis c ourts and indoor pic k le ball courts . More
variety of res taurants. More neighborhoods with neighborhood pools and water features or
ponds.
6/11/2025 8:24 PM
113 Need Walmart 6/11/2025 3:15 PM
114 A communit y c ompos t drop off location. Res idents c an drop off yard waste and pick up
composted dirt for use on their property.
6/11/2025 1:55 PM
115 Community gardens, green spaces dev oted to native Iowan plants, c ities using nativ e plants in
their landscaping/ditches /run off drain areas
6/11/2025 1:22 PM
116 Less foc us on main roads with strip malls and more town c enter s ty les. More local bus ines s es
rather than chains. There are too many gas stations and c ar was hes and banks c urrently.
Continue to inc reas e public park s paces and trees .
6/11/2025 1:06 PM
117 Our library is too s mall by square footage and it needs a larger book select ion. Some k ind of
public transport ation would be great, maybe a solar train of some s ort.
6/11/2025 12:37 PM
118 Connec ting bike paths to loc al businesses. More neighborhood park s and splash pads.6/11/2025 12:30 PM
119 splas h park, c ommunity pool 6/11/2025 12:20 PM
120 swimming pool. more park s . 18 hole priv ate golf course. more res taurant s, kid friendly 6/11/2025 12:13 PM
121 Sit down rest aurants , year round recreation fac ilities 6/11/2025 11:42 AM
122 Aquatic c enter 6/11/2025 11:03 AM
123 No 6/11/2025 10:59 AM
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124 Public pool 6/11/2025 10:59 AM
125 Ponds /lakes with walking paths around the water. They also have beautiful landscaping and
benches f or people to sit on.
6/11/2025 10:46 AM
126 Areas that are more c onduciv e to small bus iness growth 6/11/2025 10:45 AM
127 with autis m growing in the world a f enced in public park is needed. Autis tic children like to
roam - need to allow them to ex plore
6/11/2025 10:36 AM
128 Street lights being synced. Chic filet and panda would be nice.6/11/2025 10:33 AM
129 Walmart, Sams Club, Cos tco, Nat ural Grocers, Whole Foods 6/11/2025 10:22 AM
130 More res taurants and entertainment. Would lov e t o s ee a Walmart and Sam’s Club as well as
other shopping options .
6/10/2025 11:03 PM
131 Splash pads Neighborhood watch City bus 6/10/2025 10:18 PM
132 I think that as Waukee continues to grow, t here will be a c ontinued need to care for and
maintain our ex isting hous ing st ock. The ex ist ing hous ing stoc k is the most affordable housing
stoc k; it is diffic ult to build "affordable" units. As the community grows and more housing is
built, prov iding opportunities to homeowners of the ex isting homes to maintain their units in
good shape for the nex t generat ion is imperativ e.
6/10/2025 2:47 PM
133 I think a kid's (or adult c ombo) pump bike trac k would be a great addition to an exis ting or new
Park s pace.
6/9/2025 2:20 PM
134 Public trans portation. Light rail or bus s ervice 6/8/2025 9:04 PM
135 A water park, a mall, a sporting store, a s ports complex , a race trac k 6/8/2025 1:19 PM
136 Larger and more robust library and library programs. Communit y pool (not neces s arily large
aquatic center). More park s & recs programs and activ ities for kids all ages .
6/8/2025 7:56 AM
137 Gated community 6/6/2025 7:09 PM
138 More attract ions for kids and families . I.e. s plash pad in centennial park.6/6/2025 8:45 AM
139 Wading pools. We have plenty of water based attractions but a lot of special needs children
like mine just need a s mall 3-5 feet deep pool to just f loat on that free lik e Pete Crivaro Park in
DSM.
6/6/2025 6:15 AM
140 More retail st ores . So nic e to have Target and not have to leav e town. More small
shops/caf es. The triangle c ould be so muc h MORE!!! Would really bring a lot to the
communit y.
6/6/2025 2:32 AM
141 Food was te collection for city compos ting 6/5/2025 10:18 PM
142 Community pool. Not giant aquatic center 6/5/2025 12:34 PM
143 City Pool, but the c os t proposed seemed unreal and may be not everything was nec essary.
Adel has a beautiful pool, may be one to mirror. Cos tco or Sam’s Club.
6/5/2025 12:13 PM
144 Country c lub 6/5/2025 11:58 AM
145 Aquatic c enter, indoor kid ac tivities , loc al res taurants and s hops (not chains), res taurants with
outdoor playgrounds (lik e either/or in wdm), ped mall with restaurants and shops
6/5/2025 11:27 AM
146 Aquatic c enter, employ ers , city transport ation, things to do!6/5/2025 10:52 AM
147 More Non Chain sit down restaurants . Sams Club 6/5/2025 8:43 AM
148 Ank eny 's golf c ours es (the number of them), access t o bike paths in other communities as
only "old" Waukee as acces s t o c onnect ing paths, more outdoor breweries /bars that servic e on
the bike paths
6/4/2025 9:48 PM
149 Waukee needs affordable s enior housing. The places I have contact ed give me a 3-4 y r waiting
list. I don't even know if I'll liv e that long
6/4/2025 5:58 PM
150 Trails 6/4/2025 2:34 PM
151 No 6/3/2025 5:54 PM
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152 Bigger Library, park Services geared for s eniors. More trees, s ome benc hes along trails.
Entry ways into Waukee beatific ation. Art features, Fountains throughout community. Walk able
neighborhoods Bet ter business park s , To attract larger scale office buildings.
6/3/2025 11:16 AM
153 Not a s ervic e but PLEASE add more color to y our buildings, it makes me depressed driv ing
around and s eeing nothing but grey
6/2/2025 1:40 PM
154 A cent ral walk able plaza with a v ariety of busines ses near the downtown. Ac c es sed by trails or
sidewalk s .
5/30/2025 9:29 PM
155 Public trans portation 5/29/2025 7:35 PM
156 A few more res taurant options 5/29/2025 4:41 PM
157 Cons olidation of sports facilities. Could have built one football s tadium for all 3 future high
schools and had practic e fields at eac h. Same with auditoriums .
5/29/2025 3:10 PM
158 More out door parks /spac es for adults without c hildren to us e. More programming by the park
dis trict/c it y to get people out side and connec ted. Mak e the community more walkable, I would
lov e to be able to walk from my hous e to a coff ee s hop or boutique.
5/29/2025 2:46 PM
159 A network of protec ted bik e lanes that can be used as every day transportation to schools,
shops, etc. Not just paths for recreation.
5/29/2025 10:36 AM
160 Smash Park in West Des Moines. Gray's Station in downtown Des Moines . Commonwealt h
Avenue Mall greenbelt in Bos ton, MA. Brewery like Toppling Goliath. RecPlex in West Des
Moines . Market Dis tric t in Eas t Village downtown Des Moines. Pedestrian Mall in Iowa City.
5/28/2025 12:07 PM
161 I really lik e the idea and enjoy two things. Firs t I t hink ex panding on the farmer mark et and
building a dedicated open air but covered s pace would be an awesome addition (maybe if
nothing happens with the print s hop that jus t c los ed ov er by the RRBT and Stratford cros s ing?)
and second I like and enjoy the indus trial food courts that are indoor outdoor with 5 to 6 options
a bar and out door s pac e to sit, gather, play games like bags or pickleball filled with liv e music
and surrounded by other new s hops. (Also something possible at the old print shop?
5/28/2025 12:13 AM
162 Places that you can walk around and live in are wonderful. I work in West Glen in West Des
Moines , and the ability to work , then walk t o the st ore to grab a few things, get lunc h, and go
back to work is incredible. There's nothing quite lik e that in Waukee. In Waukee, y ou hav e to
drive everywhere becaus e of both how s pread out ev ery thing is and how dangerous and
daunting walking around Hickman, Univ ers ity, and Alice's c an be. Even cyc ling on/around
thes e is s cary.
5/27/2025 8:54 AM
163 A full servic e s pa like Spa Shik i at lak e of the Oz ark s or the Kohler Waters spa in Kohler
Wiscons in. I mov ed here 3 years ago and am very disappointed that a high l huge city like
Des Moines has nothing like this. Also a c onsignment shop.
5/26/2025 6:20 AM
164 Trail underpas s es for c ros s ing major roads (such as Hic kman)5/25/2025 3:08 PM
165 Snow plowing in Cliv e is much better-----Ashley Acres has n't had great s erv ice in that respect
Spraying for mosquitoes and other pests (espec ially sinc e Vista doesn't seem to have their ac t
together with getting our fountain going this y ear, s o we have a good-s ized pond of s itting water
waiting for mos quito eggs.
5/24/2025 5:50 PM
166 Bigger library. Downtown Waukee would be a cool place t o s ee new busines ses rev italiz e this
area.
5/23/2025 5:31 PM
167 Walmart 5/23/2025 11:23 AM
168 out door pool 5/22/2025 9:15 PM
169 Perhaps more medic al care facilities 5/22/2025 6:31 PM
170 A Disc Golf Store or Stores . Museums.5/22/2025 4:59 PM
171 City pool 5/22/2025 7:24 AM
172 Aquatic c enter!5/19/2025 8:03 PM
173 More nat ural amenities - think forest, prairie, etc ... The t rails here are is great, now it would be
nic e to have more of a natural feel with them. Think the area around t he art c enter in Des
5/17/2025 9:10 AM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
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Moines with mountain biking and hiking t rails , or prarie trails like at Neil Smith (I know it won't
be that big) or Ada Hayden park in Ames.
174 18-hole golf course, c ontinuing to add big businesses (Target, Fleet Farm is a good example),
aquatic center (someday)
5/16/2025 10:05 AM
175 18 hole golf course, c ontinue to at tract big businesses(Target, fleet farm is a good st art),
aquatic center(s omeday )
5/16/2025 10:01 AM
176 Aquatic Center, Public Recreat ion Center with indoor pool 5/16/2025 12:44 AM
177 Need more parks, mak e Wauk ee more walk able and green. Incentiv ize appropriat e
businesses/serv ices and st art turning down companies where there is an overload (c ar
was hes , banks , oil c hange) and get more independent restaurants , (not all chains ) and unique
stores . Mak e traffic flow better/safer.
5/15/2025 4:23 PM
178 Public trans portation 5/15/2025 4:19 PM
179 Community pool would be nic e (I know we tried). May be more c ommunity activ ities like may be
a s ummer festiv al or Friday night at the parks during summer with food truc k s and f ire works or
something.
5/15/2025 8:07 AM
180 More toddler activities held, may be bigger library for this, sad we didn’t get the pool 5/15/2025 7:41 AM
181 Mak e the Triangle more attract ive. Wit h c offee shops, boutiques etc .5/15/2025 7:01 AM
182 No, we don't need more serv ices or amenities, we need the city t o k eep tax es as low as
financially possible. The tax rate should be at a level that as growth inc reas es it provides the
necess ary funding t o adapt, with zero fluff, and only necessities.
5/14/2025 11:16 PM
183 We need an aquatic c enter!5/14/2025 11:07 PM
184 Senior Center with a lunc h program for s eniors that want to socialize. Senior activities and day
trips for s eniorsI community indoor pool is desperately needed. The communit y c enter needs
5/14/2025 10:20 PM
185 Bik e trails c onnect ing t o ex isting major trails (to Des moines , cumming, Madrid, etc )5/14/2025 9:44 PM
186 No 5/14/2025 9:13 PM
187 A communit y c enter with an indoor playground and indoor pool. It’s a great option for winter
and rainy days!
5/14/2025 8:22 PM
188 Outdoor aquatic center!!!5/14/2025 5:10 PM
189 More thought needs to be given to as thetic s. As an example, you have a major inters ec tion of
GPP and Hic kman and y ou allow an ugly U-Haul, an equally ugly c redit union and another
bank. Wes t Des Moines and Cliv e do a much better job on guding growth but also instilling
some des ign st andards s o ev ery thing doesn't look so junk y.
5/14/2025 4:08 PM
190 Res taurants with outdoor play s tructures for children (ie Hat Creek), variety of res taurants (not
all fast food, all c hains , v ariety in types of food), bilingual education opportunities (starting in
kindergart en half day in Spanish, half in English)
5/14/2025 3:43 PM
191 Rex Plex like WDM on grand 5/14/2025 3:34 PM
192 need more commerc ial (other than c ar was hes and banks) Wis h we didn't have to driv e to
WDM for s o many things . Waukee is def initely a bedroom comm. and need to lower tax es by
getting more commercial in
5/14/2025 3:28 PM
193 A laundry mat, swimming pool, fis hing amenities 5/14/2025 3:20 PM
194 Portillo’s 5/14/2025 3:08 PM
195 I would lov e to s ee an aquatics center. I know t hat was put to a vote last y ear and got
defeated. I hope it is brought forward again.
5/14/2025 3:04 PM
196 require garbage and recycling t o be in c ontainers; people set it outside and it blows all ov er and
we have tras h everwy where.
5/14/2025 2:27 PM
197 when I liv ed in Utah, almos t every c ommunity had an indoor water facility and recreation
cent er. There is almost nothing lik e this in the metro -- y es we have the YMCA but it is almos t
never open for open s wim times and the kids need things to do in the winter. Natural
5/14/2025 2:19 PM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
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play grounds would be amazing as well -- dirt trails, treehouse-sty le things , ropes to climb, and
plac es for uns truct ured play. Walk able communities with released zoning as well. You hav e to
drive everywhere in Waukee. I'd lik e t o s ee more planned c ommunities with mixed use zoning
to make it more walkable.
198 Aquatic c enter 5/14/2025 1:12 PM
199 Not really.5/14/2025 12:45 PM
200 A better c ity planner.5/14/2025 12:28 PM
201 Youth c enter out side school hours , larger library and other fac ilities (like the planned civ ic
campus), larger location for large gatherings lik e 4th of july or arts festival
5/14/2025 12:20 PM
202 Community space - place for families and c ommunity members t o gather - outdoor c ommunal
spaces - not more bars. Green/natural spac es - turn kins hip into outdoor gathering s pac e - easy
access to bike trails - more trees or shade along path on Hickman road.
5/14/2025 12:04 PM
203 More public golf. I know t here are plans to mak e Sugar Creek an 18 hole c ourse, but ev en that
is not much public golf for a city the size of Waukee. Adding a 9 hole par 3 c ours e in addition
to t he full 18 cours e would be great for families .
5/14/2025 11:51 AM
204 Farmers mark et that is acc es s ible. The triangle is cute but the parking does not support the
population of Waukee.
5/14/2025 11:13 AM
205 More variety in nic e restaurants , les s fast food, more community s pace.5/14/2025 10:37 AM
206 Our Library needs either a better allocation of funds , or more funding. With how large we are as
a c it y it's wild to see how small the library is and how few resources we hav e (i.e. WDM giv es
access to Hoopla, but it's too expens ive for Waukee to hav e).
5/14/2025 10:35 AM
207 Dirt trails in the woods or prairie would be nic e. Hav e to travel to DSM or WDSM to find dirt
trails.
5/14/2025 10:26 AM
208 A communit y pool, s imilar t o Clive. The recent proposal did not pass. My citiz ens think this
amenity s hould be able to stand on its own bus ines s wise/dollars and c ents . It is a c ommunity
amenity and s hould not expect to stand on it own financ ially. It is a c ommunity amenity, not a
communit y bus ines s .
5/14/2025 10:07 AM
209 Improved downtown area with parking, local businesses , small manmade water
fountain/wat erfall. Food Hall would be nice and a regional draw
5/14/2025 10:05 AM
210 We would benefit from more reasons to stay in Waukee. Currently, I leave Wauk ee to acces s
live theater, day spas, hair s alons , unique dining (non-chain options), and home improv ement
and decor s hopping.
5/14/2025 10:04 AM
211 Waterpark, Rec Center.5/14/2025 10:03 AM
212 Expanded park s and recreation serv ices /programming (f ree/low cost ). Intentional walkable
neighborhoods-c o-located housing and s ervices (mix ed us e z oning). Neighborhoods built for
people, not for c ars . Inc reas ed tree c anopy for s hadier walkway s and less of a 'this was just
developed' look . Des ignated ent ertainment dis tric t where people c an walk from v enue to venue
safely (es pecially if drink ing). Behavioral health & primary care urgent c are options in relatively
clos e proximity to res idential areas . We hav e had nice growth in the primary c are arena but are
really lacking in the behav ioral health spac e. As we continue to grow this will als o need to
cont inue growing. I love a multi-modal trans portation system and unders tand the barriers to a
fixed route bus or train with a community this s ize. But it was sooooo us eful in other places I
have lived.
5/14/2025 10:00 AM
213 Community and sports facility open to the public. More s hopping.5/14/2025 9:58 AM
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67.73%191
32.27%91
Q5 The following list are the guiding principles from the current Imagine
Waukee 2040 plan: Coordinated and efficient growth management Focus
on quality design and distinct places Economic and fiscal strength
Comprehensive and multi-modal transportation system Stewardship of the
natural environment Trails, parks, and recreational opportunities Quality of
life in neighborhoods and gathering places United and accessible
community Focus on technology and innovation Community of diversity Is
there anything you would change or add?
Answered: 282 Sk ipped: 38
TOTAL 282
#IF YES, (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 More rec reational/entertainment - less businesses that don’t of fer thes e s ervices (es pecially
repeat businesses - quit wit h the car washes every bloc k )
6/28/2025 4:39 PM
2 More running/walking trails that inc orporate nature around the city. As well as more s treetlights
around the roads by Northwest high s chool to regulat e the young driv ers and prev ent
accidents .
6/27/2025 9:38 PM
3 Health, mental health, piece of mind 6/27/2025 2:34 PM
4 Someplace to return deposit containers , c urrently driving to Grimes or Urbandale 6/27/2025 11:33 AM
5 Rules for Parks and trails. Stay on right s ide. No ATV 6/27/2025 7:52 AM
6 Combine s ome of the guiding princ iples . Maybe foc us on a key principles so the c ommunity
has more meaning.
6/26/2025 12:38 PM
7 The gun range near Kettles tone is very dis ruptiv e and does not fit the c ommunity which
consis ts of s c hools , a s occer facility and res idential housing. The gun range needs to be
mov ed out of the growing residential c ommunity.
6/25/2025 12:52 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
No
If yes,
(pl ease
specify)
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
No
If y es, (pleas e s pecify)
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
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8 Just s aid it below 6/25/2025 7:27 AM
9 Capping the population, enforc ing traf fic laws .6/25/2025 5:03 AM
10 Dev elopment of a c harter s c hool and/or priv ate school to provide families with alternativ e
educational opportunit ies
6/25/2025 4:08 AM
11 No more car washes or banks 6/24/2025 10:03 PM
12 Better, more affordable hous ing, better road systems 6/24/2025 6:12 PM
13 Transportation is overly emphasiz ed in mos t suburb plans - including this one. Multi-modal
transport ation should not be a s ignificant focus area given Waukee’s geographic location,
demographic s , and inc ome base. The affordable hous ing projec t is als o disappointing - how
many Wauk ee resident s/c onstituents were adv oc ating for this?
6/24/2025 4:39 PM
14 Build more hous ing!6/24/2025 4:25 PM
15 Res tore s oil quality and canopy. Quit selling land to corporate dev elopers and utilize more
loc aliz ed bidders.
6/24/2025 4:04 PM
16 Just the new library 6/24/2025 4:01 PM
17 Any new pav ed roads need t o hav e multiuse paths running alongs ide. Not s idewalks , but
mult ius e paths. Wauk ee needs to have bik eability in the forefront of any/all ex pansion.
6/24/2025 3:18 PM
18 Meaningful growth, don't allow just because you can. Wgat does it bring to the c ommunity ?6/24/2025 3:03 PM
19 Less low quality hous ing, better traffic flow 6/24/2025 2:51 PM
20 Cater to larger bus ines s es /manufacturing that will bring in s ignificant tax dollars to the c ity.6/24/2025 2:40 PM
21 City of diversity 6/24/2025 2:19 PM
22 Amount of and sport of traffic on University and Hic k man 6/24/2025 1:48 PM
23 Stop building so many apartments and townhomes. Stop allowing car washes, banks, and nail
salons . Also would lik e to s ee more healthy restaurant options .
6/24/2025 1:42 PM
24 No more bank s , medic al fac ilities, nail salons or car washes .6/24/2025 12:01 PM
25 Don’t over fill the communit y with housing and multi family homes . Spread t hings out.6/24/2025 12:00 PM
26 No more car washes , nail s alons , banks, large apartment or townhome c omplexes 6/24/2025 11:59 AM
27 Feed the c ommunity 6/24/2025 11:25 AM
28 We hav e too many banks, c ar was hes and apartments 6/24/2025 11:25 AM
29 Affordable utilities! Gas was one thing but water here is more expens ive than the other 3
states we’ve lived in (Colorado, Ariz ona, Nebras k a)
6/24/2025 11:22 AM
30 No more car washed and townhous es 6/24/2025 11:22 AM
31 Pedes trian crossings over Hickman for safety 6/24/2025 11:20 AM
32 Mainting roads and sidewalk s in neighborhoods . Buc k led sidewalks that cause potential injury
to kids and adults too.
6/24/2025 11:12 AM
33 See abov e 6/24/2025 11:10 AM
34 Bring in local bus iness es instead of chains .6/24/2025 9:13 AM
35 Support the idea of villages or s ub-c ommunities 6/22/2025 9:14 PM
36 Outdoor wat er activ ities for summer.6/22/2025 2:21 PM
37 Under "Coordinated & efficient growth management" -the timing of the street lights on Hickman
are frus trating (both ways regardless of time of travel). Hwy 5 in MN is a great ex ample of what
I believ e works . The stretch b/w Edina & Chanhas s en is thoughtful and well planned. The
lights are timed to mov e thru the city and there is n't a st op light at ev ery block. My perc eption
is that the growth was not planned for s o we are being reac tiv e in how traffic is managed
becaus e t he c it y-s c ape wasn't more t houghtfully c ons idered. We jus t keep adding s trip malls
6/17/2025 10:21 AM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
24 / 37
to Hickman. If the traf fic flow is n't f ixed t here -I'd reques t the lights or thruway s t o get to 80 be
updated or made more effic ient. And perhaps I jus t miss MPLS (where I'm from).
38 Preserving open land/s pace 6/14/2025 7:22 AM
39 Put a hold on building. No more apartments. The green s pac e is being eaten up by c hain
res taurants, nail salons and bank buildings .
6/14/2025 6:43 AM
40 Continual improvement c ommunic ating to Waukee and area res idents.6/13/2025 10:12 AM
41 Safety of current res idents 6/12/2025 9:47 PM
42 More affordable houses 6/12/2025 7:48 PM
43 I've liv ed in Waukee my whole life. The thing Waukee needs t o s top doing is permitting more
condos , and apartment buildings. Waukee does not hav e the infras truct ure for a much larger
population, and wit h more people c omes les s s afety. LOVE the Target. We've been waiting
forever for that :)
6/12/2025 7:39 PM
44 Douglas Parkway needs to be widened to 4 lanes from Alic e’s Road wes t as well as a s toplight
at NE Wes tgate and Douglas Parkway
6/12/2025 3:31 PM
45 Local owned business growth 6/12/2025 10:19 AM
46 Pedes trian safet y (underpas s es on bus y roads, etc.)6/11/2025 11:01 PM
47 More mature 6/11/2025 9:50 PM
48 Safety - grow the police, fire, EMT & other servic es to meet the population growth.6/11/2025 8:45 PM
49 Addition of a statement regarding the Waukee Community Sc hool District 6/11/2025 6:09 PM
50 Gun club no longer fits in the c ommunity. Noise travels miles sometime and mak es outdoor
activity diffic ult. I hav e no problem with gun club but the noise impac ts such a large area. I’m
aware of t he argument that they were here firs t but when the noise impacts s o many beyond
their property it makes adjoining property less useful. It’s an intrusion bey ond the gun club
property.
6/11/2025 3:15 PM
51 Hi 6/11/2025 1:22 PM
52 Inc reas e focus on public schools 6/11/2025 1:06 PM
53 Homes that low to mid lev el inc ome can afford vs just apartments 6/11/2025 11:29 AM
54 Spend wisely …it’s easy to spend s omeone else’s money 6/11/2025 10:59 AM
55 As mentioned abov e, the ris ing cost to do bus ines s , i.e. rent, has made it difficult for more
small bus iness es to thriv e in Wauk ee.
6/11/2025 10:45 AM
56 Quality of sc hool education 6/11/2025 10:36 AM
57 Link the bike paths 6/11/2025 10:33 AM
58 I’ve heard s o many people s ay s top building apartments , too many bank s , car washes and
lube bus inesses .
6/11/2025 10:32 AM
59 Lower tax es 6/10/2025 10:18 PM
60 Focus on saf e, affordable, and attainable housing for all.6/10/2025 2:47 PM
61 Affordable housing 6/8/2025 9:04 PM
62 A water park 6/8/2025 1:19 PM
63 Res pons ible waste management 6/5/2025 10:18 PM
64 Emphasis on local entrepreneurs hip/owners hip 6/5/2025 11:27 AM
65 Connec ting Waukee (focus on connec ting the entire c ity to itself)6/4/2025 9:48 PM
66 Not one thing mentioned about Wauk ee s eniors ov er age 60 6/4/2025 5:58 PM
67 Fix downtown Waukee streets 6/2/2025 2:22 PM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
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68 More color 6/2/2025 1:40 PM
69 Balanced budget. Become a “model” c ommunity with the right blend of housing, communit y
serv ices etc
5/29/2025 4:41 PM
70 Better management of tax dollars 5/29/2025 3:10 PM
71 I do not s ee how the multi-modal t rans portation as pec t of this plan was convey ed.5/29/2025 10:36 AM
72 Bringing people c loser together and enabling ease of movement.5/27/2025 8:54 AM
73 Ov erall, a great lis t and impres siv e 5/24/2025 5:50 PM
74 Stop giving tax money to dev elopers, let them ris k their own money. Wauk ee does not need
any more parks or ent ertainment venues The full s ize outdoor bas ketball c ourt is one of the
dumbest ideas ever. Waukee government should concentrate on the s ervices that government
is suppos ed to prov ide - polic e, fire, ambulanc e, water, and keeping up with road improv ement
and const rution.
5/23/2025 11:23 AM
75 put a halt on more development more isn't better I liv e in south FL in the winter and we're
mak ing the s ame mis takes
5/22/2025 9:15 PM
76 A better inves tment in older res idential areas , sidewalk s afety, and traffic law enforcement for
speeding.
5/22/2025 6:05 PM
77 Stop building so many res idential homes (i.e. apartments , townhomes, etc .). Ev entually,
Waukee is going to be way too ov erc rowded and traffic will worsen.
5/22/2025 4:59 PM
78 Mak e the Triangle a c ute, more upscale place t o v isit.5/15/2025 4:23 PM
79 Lower property tax es, spend money more efficiently, hav e t hings that appeal to ev eryone not
jus t a c ertain age demographic
5/15/2025 7:01 AM
80 Don't need a bunch of fancy art, water parks or ot her crap built on the public dime. Any
rec reational or non-abs olute necessity should be prov ided by the priv ate mark et. If no priv ate
market s olution ex ists, it should be incentiv ize by the government to draw that busines s in, but
under no circ ums tanc es be f unded by government.
5/14/2025 11:16 PM
81 Focus on police enf orc ement inc reas e. . safe from c rime and property c 5/14/2025 10:20 PM
82 Too many bank s and c ar was hes focus on more attractions to the community 5/14/2025 9:13 PM
83 Really inv est in the downtown. Get the c o-op out of there. Mak e it a plac e people want to
go...not just a couple of sketchy bars /harware shop and ic e c ream.
5/14/2025 4:08 PM
84 Remove Divers ity 5/14/2025 3:34 PM
85 again LESS APARTMENTS 5/14/2025 3:28 PM
86 access ible sidewalks. My kids cannot, for example, ride their bik es to triumph park becaus e
10th s treet has paths to ride bik es s afely up there from the southern half of town. The park is 5
mins away but we can't get t here unless we drive.
5/14/2025 2:19 PM
87 Bik e/walk lane needed on Ut e av e/ 6t h s t 5/14/2025 1:23 PM
88 New s c hools that hav e been built in rec ent years or are c urrently being built are not on the map 5/14/2025 10:52 AM
89 So many c omments on lack of respec tful youth in the c ommunity. I don’t know how y ou
change this, but was n’t the case 5 years ago.
5/14/2025 10:37 AM
90 "A Comprehensiv e and Multi-Modal Trans portation Sy stem" is sill when most people hav e their
own trans portat ion. "A United and Ac c es sible Community" s ounds lik e rubbish. What does it
even mean? It honestly sounds like you are say ing 'We will all agree on ev ery thing and be
happy.' That 's dangerous!
5/14/2025 10:35 AM
91 A lot of focus points on things that really don't mat ter. The princ iples are simply: The people
and money. Please do not t ry t o c hange Waukee to Ank eny or West Des Moines.
5/14/2025 9:43 AM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
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Q6 If you have more to say about the Imagine Waukee 2040 Update,
please tell us here.
Answered: 99 Sk ipped: 221
#RESPONSES DATE
1 Dev elopers of homes should leave more topsoil.6/28/2025 4:38 PM
2 Taxes are too high currently. This needs to be cons idered for the f uture.6/28/2025 7:24 AM
3 It’s a shame that as waukee grows they shift their priorities to c reating a certain image of
thems elves rather than c onc erning thems elves about their long term c itizens . Families t hat
have lived in wauk ee before its s udden growth s tarting in the y ear 2018 seem to be forgott en
about. They hav e c alled waukee their home but It s eems that as more people moves in, the
city is foc used on mak ing the ric h new c itizens lives eas ier by shifting the cities
Infrastruc ture/finances to support them rather than the long term citiz ens.
6/27/2025 9:38 PM
4 We need more s mall coffee s hops, tall trees, and unique shopping areas !6/27/2025 2:34 PM
5 Please s upport dev elopment of small, loc ally owned businesses. Hic k man Road is s tart ing to
feel lik e one big strip mall. There’s nothing unique about it and there aren’t many other retail
areas for c ommunity bus iness. I’d also like to see more acces s ibility at all parks, lik e
wheelchair swings, s wings and c limbing s truct ures for bigger k ids, AAC c ommunication boards
so that non-s peaking k ids can communicate, and changing tables that c an support people of
any siz e.
6/27/2025 9:41 AM
6 I want Waukee to grow and dev elop but also I don’t want our taxes to increase s inc e they are
already so high.
6/26/2025 10:52 PM
7 Waukee's identit y is that of a suburb that has made dec ades of decisions to be lik e any other
suburb.
6/26/2025 12:38 PM
8 As far as expanding/improv ing outdoor recreat ion, more shade is needed. Wither by planting
more mature trees t han just s aplings or by ins talling permanent shade st ruc tures. Many parks
and trails currently hav e insufficient shade.
6/25/2025 2:19 PM
9 Please mov e the gun range.6/25/2025 12:52 PM
10 Stop mak ing all thes e gas stations ,was h c ar stores ,t ire s tores etc . bring someting new to our
neighbour
6/25/2025 7:27 AM
11 Thank s f or all you do and for allowing c itizens t he opportunity to v oic e t heir opinions.6/25/2025 7:25 AM
12 The small town charm is gone.6/25/2025 5:03 AM
13 Please k eep the small town feel! I t's wonderful to hav e t he c onvenience of big-box s tores, but
I'm not s ure we need many more t o s upport the needs of our population. I would rather foc us
on developing more green spaces and maintaining a safe c ommunity.
6/25/2025 4:08 AM
14 I want to be sure we still have plenty of parks and green s pac e. Keep the area c lean and plant
native plants the help the ec o s y s tem.
6/25/2025 1:40 AM
15 I think we should add more community events , brining in businesses to be apart of it as well.6/24/2025 9:47 PM
16 Any thing we c an do to help communities c onnect. I t hink with hav ing so many element ary
schools all f unneling into the s ame activ ities it is hard to create a clos e sens e of communit y.
So being able to help individual neighborhoods or school boundary areas creat e that s ense of
support and connec tion.
6/24/2025 5:31 PM
17 The rec ent water issue and restric tions is completely unacceptable and reflects lack of
adequate planning and growt h by all participating c ommunities. Immediate inv es tment is
required
6/24/2025 4:39 PM
18 NO MORE CAR WASHES, BANKS, NAIL SALONS, CHIROPRACTORS or STORAGE 6/24/2025 4:07 PM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
27 / 37
UNITS. The area by the building formally k nown as Kinship needs s hops not whatev er was te
of spac e buildings keep going up. Hickman needs to be 3 lanes . The trees around Triumph
park need better attended to if you want them to grow up look ing nic e. I don't plan on liv ing
here in another 2-5 y ears , but I would like to c ome back one day and feel proud of the area.
19 Yes, in Waukee we need more swimming pools and water Parks. We need more trees along
side walks and benches to help during hot s eason
6/24/2025 3:42 PM
20 I jus t rec ently mov ed here & I apprec iate how well kept Wauk ee is. This community c learly
values maintaining what it already has . I think t hat is important to remember as the city
cont inues to grow.
6/24/2025 3:30 PM
21 There are so many weird aspec ts to t he trails around Grand Prairie that I hav e to wonder if
anyone who rides a bik e at any frequenc y was c onsulted. 90* turns, blind exits from
underpasses . It just s eems like you need to involv e more people who ac tually us e t he trails on
a frequent basis in these conversations . For thos e of us who use the trails , many des ign
decis ions make no s ense on a practic al level.
6/24/2025 3:18 PM
22 Primary reas ons for liv ing in wauk ee are advanc ed educ ation and safety, low quality housing
reduces both of thos e, als o traffic f low and stoplight need help (ex: stoplight c hanges to red for
the ONLY car in sight; lights not timed to encourage s luid traffic and forc ing st opping at every
single light on a busy road)
6/24/2025 2:51 PM
23 Waukee has been growing s o f ast and appears to be try ing to stay "hip" while neglecting the
infrastructure or essentials of everyday life. Ins tead of building the next biggest s c hool or
sporting c omplex, foc us on infrast ruc ture, s izing roads appropriately for the future, t iming
traf fic lights acc ording to traffic patterns. Stop mix ing low income housing and high inc ome
housing, it will only bring every thing down in the long term. Build a c ommunity pool, stop
pushing a new golf c ours e t hat the majority of Waukee doesn't want or won't us e, and ins tead
fos ter ec onomic growth in catering to manuf acturing, engineering, tec hnology s ec tors which
will bring more money into t he town to be able t o add ammenities in time.
6/24/2025 2:40 PM
24 I would really lik e t o s ee an emphas is on technology and innovation over the next 15 y ears .6/24/2025 1:49 PM
25 Ute is extremely bus y - needs t o be widended. Neighborhoods by t he int ers tate really need
sound barriers , more neighborhood connec tiv it ies - especially by paint ed woods.
6/24/2025 11:50 AM
26 I have been a res ident of Waukee f or 17 years, previously Cliv e. Both of my c hildren graduated
from WHS. I really would like someone to explain to me why the other towns are incorporated
into our school dis trict, exc ept Cliv e. The Waukee school dist rict is c ontinually building
schools and I pers onally think it ’s out of control. When my k ids started in the Milwaukee
school district, there were two elementary s c hools . Why not jus t mak e the West Des Moines
families go to Wes t Des Moines s c hools , the Urbandale f amilies go to Urbandale schools?
Why is the city of Wauk ee taking on this major growth burden, which is somewhat caus ed by
the neighboring suburbs ?
6/24/2025 11:25 AM
27 I fear t he growth rate and how housing env ironments are not planned out in a way that
encourages a c ohesiv e but als o diverse c ommunity. It is sad to see so much land that can be
used in a res ourc eful way be ov ertaken with let’s see how many people we c an fit in this
space. Having more c ommercial properties and bus ines s es that c an be beneficial to people
within walk ing dis tanc e from home. Way s t o lessen t he amount of traffic for the homes and
living env ironments we are building. Looking at how t o liv e wit h the resourc es around us and
sust ainably for the future. Sometimes bigger is n’t bett er or c opying f rom other suburbs when
the stats and k nowledge isn’t there to s ee if it will work for the generations to come.
6/24/2025 11:22 AM
28 Too many bank s and c arwashes 6/24/2025 11:10 AM
29 Thank you for prioritiz ing acces s ibility and div ersity.6/24/2025 10:59 AM
30 Is t here a better spot for the farmers market ? Tak e a look at dyersville farmers mark et-lov e
their s et up. Awareness of more electric vehic les-can our power grid support this. Data centers
tak e up likes of ground spac e, als o us e a lot of water and power-are t hese affecting waukee?
More funding for ymca to ex pand pool swim hours. (Healthy liv ing wauk ee)
6/24/2025 10:03 AM
31 Would like to see investment in public trans portat ion and making Wauk ee a more walkable
city. There are s ome areas without sidewalk s, which can mak e travel more diffic ult (for
example, if s omeone is in a wheel c hair).
6/24/2025 9:52 AM
32 Please pleas e please expand t he roads and improve infrast ruc ture. Too many parts of Wauk ee 6/24/2025 9:49 AM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
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are des igned for a 2,000 person town. Ut e Ave tak es thous ands of Waukee res idents to the
interstate and its 2 lanes with no st reet lights
33 Mak ing sure we keep our natural resourc es s afe.6/24/2025 9:40 AM
34 Waukee needs a gathering plac e t hat dev elops a sense of community. Als o, real estate prices
don’t encourage loc al businesses and lends to c hains . All this res ult s in a bunch of chains and
no s ense of community.
6/24/2025 9:13 AM
35 Hav e not read it yet ...but please pleas e please do not focus community design on vehicle
traf fic. If we want t o just be a ot her suburb then y es k eep adding strip malls and 4 lane roads.
6/22/2025 9:14 PM
36 with all the apart ment opt ions coming up i'm worried about infrast ruc ture to support it 6/22/2025 10:11 AM
37 I underst and a c ommunity plan, I've done that in another community. After that, before sending
to t he public for v ote, a discus s ion about fis cal and environmental impacts . The vot e for a new
swimming pool is a great example. Our lawn watering has been limited for multiple years.
Nitrates are not going away until fertilizer is banned. And I hav e conc erns over c ommunity debt
on property tax es . Why disc us s buy ing property for a school?
6/18/2025 4:52 PM
38 I lov e the rain gardens - keep it up! I apprec iat e being asked t o s hare my opinion. The bike
paths are great (they are busy). I apprec iate that we c hanged providers for our a commodity
(water?/gas?) I even read the material all I remember is that the c ity is being smarter about the
source of something and how it's funded. Focus on qualit y des ign and dis tinct places. I'd love
to see more artistic spac es , or ev en touches t o what 's already there -painted electric al boxes ,
sculptures (but we don't have the look for that right now). It's s trip mall after st rip mall. My
bigges t conc ern is what happens in 40 y ears when we are the new v alley west mall area (or
even Jordan Creek res taurant area and it's dying. We will hav e all this commercial spac e t hat
will look junk y and t he population will continue to s prawl and we will be left with t ons of half
filled apartment s and no infrastruc ture to support it . Regarding the water ban - I'd be interes ted
in how we are holding farmers ac c ount able f or t heir c ontribution to the nitrate lev els. Or is there
something we can plant along the highways to abs orb the extra junk that 's produced from
farming.
6/17/2025 10:21 AM
39 n/a 6/17/2025 7:31 AM
40 The guiding principals are reas onable but at this point, more slow and thoughtful dev elopment
would be nice. Once the green spac es and open areas are gone they are gone forever.
6/14/2025 6:43 AM
41 I appreciate t he enthus iasm and s upport future plans . Please do not ov erlook thos e of us who
have lived in the c ommunity 30+ years when making plans for new amenities.
6/13/2025 10:12 AM
42 Young people love our pets . Please prioritize more dog parks, pools, and a pet hospital on our
side of town would be GREAT. I t's hard when the nearest emergency clinic is almost 30 mins
away.
6/12/2025 7:39 PM
43 Love the thoughts of a new library, of a golf cours e. I think it will be important for people to s ee
progres s soon or they will c hoose other suburbs for their families .
6/12/2025 10:19 AM
44 Please mak e it more ac c es sible v ia modes other than v ehicles.6/12/2025 9:17 AM
45 Less retail. The brick and mortar retail will die out 6/11/2025 9:50 PM
46 I would request that y ou not push Univers it y Avenue t hrough Sout h of Warrior Av e. That bike
path is us ed daily by multiple people and losing it or ruining the area wit h traffic and noise
would not be preferable. There are already many ways to get around that part of the city and
keeping all t hose trees and green area would be so muc h bett er f or t he c ity and env ironment.
6/11/2025 12:37 PM
47 really c ould benefit from a private 18 hole golf course 6/11/2025 12:13 PM
48 Keep t he c it y hall local, keep the loud cars at a minimum or more nois e barriers 6/11/2025 11:42 AM
49 Somet hing t hat would be a top priority in several of the listed guiding principles is maintaining
family friendly bus inesses onc e es tablished (the loss of a plac e like Kinship is s omething we
dis c us s in my hous e frequently)
6/11/2025 11:03 AM
50 Waukee is growing - but we need to keep the taxes in chec k for our homes.6/11/2025 10:36 AM
51 More retail, less growth in population!6/11/2025 10:32 AM
52 Can we stop letting DR Horton have a monopoly on the land plats available?6/11/2025 10:22 AM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
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53 Focus on way s to k eep people in the community rather than leav ing t o other metro c ities for
shopping, dining, and entertainment. We have limited dining options, and almost no sit-down
nic er (non-pub) res taurants. Limited entertainment besides bars and movie t heater. Target is a
nic e addition, but need more shopping options .
6/10/2025 11:03 PM
54 Why put the ponds under the c are of neighborhoods? Under people who do not k now anything
about how to care for them??? And why nex t to neighborhood parks? Suc h ris k s for
drownings!!!!
6/10/2025 10:18 PM
55 Waukee is one of the fas tes t growing suburbs in the Midwes t. The next 20 years will be the
time dec isions are made that will make or break the c ommunity t o become a shining ex ample
of what to do, or something other c ommunities look at what they do not want t o bec ome. Let's
mak e a plan that s ets us up for succes s to be the shining example!
6/10/2025 2:47 PM
56 Love that your as k ing f or feedback .6/9/2025 2:20 PM
57 While it is a balance, the sharp decline of fields and farmland is hard to swallow as s omeone
who has known the area s ince the early 2000s. The rate of housing and apartments being put
up is necess ary to support a growing community, but Wauk ee is no longer a s mall town, we
are rapidly developing into a large suburb. The s ense of small-town c ommunity feels like it’s
dwindling.
6/8/2025 7:54 PM
58 Would like to see gated communit y housing 6/6/2025 7:09 PM
59 No more crappy fas t food!!6/6/2025 8:45 AM
60 I am happy to see that Stewards hip of the Nat ural Environment is on the lis t of princ iples .
Please mak e these ef fort s robus t, There will c ertainly be widespread community c ollaboration.
6/5/2025 10:18 PM
61 If Waukee and the suburbs continue to grow, Hickman, University, and Douglas will need
something rev isioning or widening of roads . The amount of traffic on these roads is staggering.
6/5/2025 3:52 PM
62 No 6/5/2025 12:34 PM
63 I have never understood the lac k of attendees at public events . I hav e only been to f armers
market a c ouple of times but it was v ery sad. Max well is a v ery small town and has an
amazing mark et and turn out. Art Festival also seems lik e hardly any one goes. Not sure if it is
advertising or what but for the s ize of Wauk ee it seems like things lik e that s hould hav e a huge
turn out.
6/5/2025 12:13 PM
64 Waukee needs to plan NOW for the aging populat ion and what servic es they might need.
There's not ev en a city bus line.
6/4/2025 5:58 PM
65 Waukee is a fabulous place to live with a lot more potential. It would be great if we c ould
attract some nic e s it down restaurants and offices to bring in more shoppers and eaters .
May be a nature pres erve to walk around in. Flower garden.
6/3/2025 11:16 AM
66 MORE COLOR 6/2/2025 1:40 PM
67 No 5/29/2025 7:35 PM
68 Inc reas ed polic e and fire dept s taf f as needed t o s upport growing c ommunity. Recruit more
physic ians .
5/29/2025 4:41 PM
69 Adding a new library off Ute s eems lik e an unnec es s ary ex pense when it would be much more
cost effective to ex pand c urrent library. Also don’t feel expanded city of fices are nec es sary.
Als o would be better use of tax dollars to put near Hic kman or the data cent er where land
prices are c heaper, more acces s ible to traffic, and les s people will want to have houses . Use
the land near golf course for res idential and would benefit from more property tax dollars as a
res ult as well. Also don’t think the natatorim was a good us e a tax dollars with c os t to build
and operating c ost abs when it’s not open to the public so only a f ew people benefit from it.
Waukee tax revenue has benefited from huge growth and increases in property values the pas t
few y ears , but y et tax rate has ris en, should be lowering the tax rate during growth t imes.
When the growth levels out it won’t be as easy to budget.
5/29/2025 3:10 PM
70 I do not s ee how the multi-modal t rans portation as pec t of this plan was convey ed. I see
principles of a multi-modal plan were included but there s eems to be a disconnec t between the
principles and the ac tions. I would lik e to s ee the use of traffic -calming street designs , but
5/29/2025 10:36 AM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
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don't s ee where this would be implemented in the plan. I would like to s ee more about t his
portion of the plan if possible.
71 Just to reiterate this point, I feel s trongly that the New Pioneer Gun Range needs to relocate to
a more remote location in Wauk ee. Not only will this improve the quality of life, but will more
than lik ely, increas e the tax able value of the s urrounding properties .
5/28/2025 12:07 PM
72 I recently saw t he amount of debt the c ity of Waukee is carry ing. Coupling this with t he
suburban nature of the city, Wauk ee will have to eventually opt to become more dense and
walkable to increase property tax revenue for c ity amenities, c ontinue s prawling out endlessly,
or revert to it's roots as a rural communit y lacking many of the amenities we have now. Which
of t hese three is chos en is up to the residents , but s prawling out endlessly can only c ontinue
as long as there is spac e to. For the wellbeing of the community in t he long-term, it should not
be the preferred choic e.
5/27/2025 8:54 AM
73 We would love to know future plans for north and wes t of As hley Ac res. We see Parks ide
development is started but appears to be at a standstill, and we c an't find any st reet map pas t
2020 to help us env ision what will happen north of Ashley Acres and west of Fox Valley.
Thank -you!
5/24/2025 5:50 PM
74 I hope somet hing is done about the terrible drink ing water long bef ore 2040. It tas tes like it
came from a swimming pool. .Also, c oncentrate on true public servic es - polic e, roads, etc. No
more tax payer funded parks or entertainment. No t axpayer funded water park.
5/23/2025 11:23 AM
75 getting too big more isn't better 5/22/2025 9:15 PM
76 Trail and parks are as s ets .5/22/2025 6:05 PM
77 I like some of the improv ements to the Triangle. I would like to s ee more. I f poss ible, could the
Co-Op be reloc ated? Also, the area East of the Co-Op c ould be better utilized, as it’s a bit of
an eyesore
5/19/2025 10:09 AM
78 Ques tioning if people will be interested and s upportiv e in the suc c es s of Imagine Waukee 2040
sinc e the aquat ic center didn’t even pass approval
5/16/2025 12:44 AM
79 Ens ure Waukee is walkable. (Walk -ee. A health c entered place to live)5/15/2025 4:23 PM
80 keep up the good work with parks, wat erways/ponds, green spac es, nic e inf ras tructure- thes e
things make the community look and f eel nic e it’s one of the bigges t reas on I lov e it here. My
kids hav e ac c es s to park s- and it’s not a c oncrete jungle. Only c oncern is the amount of
apartment building we build- I get housing is ex pensiv e but I think we need to be mindful how
many we really need and ensure we are k eeping our c ommunity feel and not just trying to get
more people in
5/15/2025 8:07 AM
81 NO TAX INCREASES. No unfunded "mandates" or new projec ts like the new c ity hall and
library. Every thing we have should be us ed and made to last 100+ y ears , no excuse.
5/14/2025 11:16 PM
82 No 5/14/2025 11:07 PM
83 Please mak e s ure fire and s afety are inc luded in the plan. The more populated the t own of
Waukee, the more risk of c rime.
5/14/2025 10:20 PM
84 Plant way more trees. Nobody ever s ays a town has t oo few. Enough with the fast f ood; nail
salons and c ar was hers. Be selec tive with the bus iness es you try and attract. I'd lov e a Home
Depot or Lowes.
5/14/2025 4:08 PM
85 I don’t like that we keep getting so many of the same ty pe of plac es . For example, c ar was hes
are coming up on what seems like ev ery corner. Fas t food Burger/shake joints all ov er. How
many of the same ty pe of thing does 1 c ommunity need. Hawaiian Bros was a great addition.
Nothing really like it in the area.
5/14/2025 3:08 PM
86 I lov e the amount of bike trails and how interconnected they are. I don't like road c onstruction
(c learly ) but I apprec iat e that we have high quality roads to drive on.
5/14/2025 3:04 PM
87 need big box retail; Home Depot or Lowes, Wal Mart. if not for Aldi groc eries would be totally
unaf fordable
5/14/2025 2:27 PM
88 We really should have an indoor pool or other indoor rec reation options, espec ially for kids to
play recreational s ports that don't c ost an arm and a leg.
5/14/2025 2:19 PM
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89 More bik e/walk lanes in and around s ugar creek elementary 5/14/2025 1:23 PM
90 I wish Waukee was more intentional about keeping mature trees and natural landscapes as
part of the plans when they dev elop areas. For example, the pond on the NW c orner of
Douglas and Warrior had several mature trees on the NW c orner of the pond and s ome smaller
ones along the wes t bank of the pond that were s till there after they redid the pond and then a
year later they c ame in and took them all out. Als o, would lov e to see that pond stoc ked with
fish as Wauk ee has been great about s tock ing other ponds .
5/14/2025 11:51 AM
91 I am c oncerned that NW 10th St between NW Douglas Pk wy and NW Sunrise Dr is ext remely
nois y ev en through evening times . It's dis turbing to the c ommunity to the West of NW 10th St.
I think a lot of the noise is coming from cars having to s top and go at the intersections .
Perhaps we can change the traf fic lights to blink ing red/y ellow during non-peak hours? That
way, c ars won't hav e to s top and go and would jus t be able to flow through.
5/14/2025 11:12 AM
92 Plans for future s c hools should be added. I'm mos t excited about the new Trails , Parks, and
Rec reational Opportunities
5/14/2025 10:52 AM
93 What does a Community of Diversity mean for Wauk ee?5/14/2025 10:42 AM
94 Why s o many car washes, nail s alons , banks, and Starbuc k s . Seems like more variety is
needed.
5/14/2025 10:37 AM
95 The cost of living is Wauk ee is HIGH, and furt her gov ernment involvement tends to lead to
even higher tax es and bloated budgets. We don't need more taxes and more policies put in
plac e when we are already ov erwhelmed with the cost of liv ing as it is.
5/14/2025 10:35 AM
96 There needs to be some planning for fas ter North/South t rav el. There are multiple ways to go
Eas t/Wes t on a higher speed road. But the trav el opt ions going the other direc tions is very
limited.
5/14/2025 10:26 AM
97 If at any point you want data from our Community Health As s essment t o s upport projec ts (we
did a foc us group in Wauk ee and hav e c ounty wide surv ey res ults ), reac h out to t he health
department! We always lov e helping with c omprehens ive planning bec ause it is s o much
easier to integrate healthy projec ts from the st art.
5/14/2025 10:00 AM
98 Are we building roads big enough and timing road lights accordingly?5/14/2025 9:46 AM
99 Money. Please do not ov erextend.5/14/2025 9:43 AM
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1.47%4
0.73%2
23.44%64
37.36%102
17.22%47
9.89%27
8.42%23
1.47%4
Q7 My age range is:
Answered: 273 Sk ipped: 47
TOTAL 273
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
17 years or
yo unger
18-24
25 -34
35 -44
45 -54
5 5 -64
65 -74
75 or older
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
17 y ears or y ounger
18-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
65-74
75 or older
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
33 / 37
61.17%167
38.83%106
Q8 Are there any children under 18 living in your household?
Answered: 273 Sk ipped: 47
TOTAL 273
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Yes
No
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes
No
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
34 / 37
30.51%83
68.01%185
1.47%4
Q9 What is your gender?
Answered: 272 Sk ipped: 48
TOTAL 272
#PREFER TO SELF-DESCRIBE:DATE
1 J 6/24/2025 12:40 PM
2 N/a 6/8/2025 9:04 PM
3 Trans-woman 5/14/2025 11:16 PM
4 I 5/14/2025 3:04 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
M ale
F emal e
Pr efer to
sel f-descr ibe:
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Male
Female
Prefer to self-des c ribe:
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
35 / 37
84.62%231
49.08%134
4.40%12
2.20%6
41.39%113
28.57%78
6.23%17
Q10 What is your connection to Waukee? (Select all that apply)
Answered: 273 Sk ipped: 47
Total Respondents : 273
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 We grew up in Wauk ee and rais ed our children in Waukee 6/25/2025 5:55 PM
2 I work in t he district 6/24/2025 6:18 PM
3 I live between Dallas Center and Waukee not far from Apple. I do a lot of s hopping etc in
Waukee now that it has grown and have options. Have lived here for 45 years and my hus band
his whole life
6/24/2025 12:13 PM
4 I work for the s c hool dis tric t 6/24/2025 11:24 AM
5 Need malls and man made lak e 6/24/2025 10:52 AM
6 We liv e within the WCSD boundaries (att end s chool elsewhere though) and I am a Waukee HS 6/24/2025 10:23 AM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
I have a
Waukee address.
I o wn pr oper ty
w it hin Waukee
city l imits.
I ow n a
business that
is l ocated i...
I live outside
Waukee city
l imit s but w...
I have
chil dr en or go
to school in...
I come to
Waukee for a
l ot of thing...
Other (pl ease
s pecify)
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
I have a Waukee address.
I own property wit hin Waukee city limits.
I own a business that is loc ated in or serv es Waukee.
I live outs ide Waukee city limit s but work in Waukee.
I have children or go to sc hool in t he Wauk ee Community School Dis trict.
I come to Waukee for a lot of things like shopping, eating out, s port, ev ents , park s , vis iting f riends or family.
Other (please s pecify)
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
36 / 37
alum.
7 I have nieces and a nephew als o in the Waukee school s ystem.6/17/2025 10:21 AM
8 Liv e in Clive but must go through Wauk ee to get any where from my res idenc e.6/12/2025 3:32 PM
9 I work in Waukee.6/12/2025 9:18 AM
10 I work from my home in Waukee (remote work er).6/11/2025 8:47 PM
11 Used t o liv e in Wauk ee, currently liv e in Clive but two blocks from what is technically Waukee 6/5/2025 3:53 PM
12 Work here 6/5/2025 10:53 AM
13 I am a Wauk ee resident since 1960 6/4/2025 5:59 PM
14 We'd lov e to s ee more res taurant options with healthy food choic es and s pecials.5/24/2025 5:52 PM
15 Liv e in Clive, but use Wauk ee s erv ices as it is all around me 5/15/2025 4:24 PM
16 Employ ee of WCSD 5/14/2025 5:11 PM
17 I live in West Des Moines, immediately adjacent to Waukee 5/14/2025 3:04 PM
Imagine Waukee 2040 Plan Update - Community Survey
37 / 37
42.63%107
27.09%68
12.75%32
17.53%44
Q11 If you living within Waukee city limits, how long have you lived in
Waukee?
Answered: 251 Sk ipped: 69
TOTAL 251
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
0-5 years
6-1 0 year s
11 -15 years
16+ year s
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
0-5 years
6-10 years
11-15 y ears
16+ years
Imagine Waukee 2040 Update
Map Title: Existing Conditions Map
Tool Type: Social Map
Report Date Range: 14 May 2025 - 28 Jun 2025
Date Exported:2 Jul 2025 12:23 pm
Comment
Number Comments Address
1 This is a nice community pond 1025 Southeast Tallgrass Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
2
This is a well used trail and beautiful to walk along. Please avoid destroying the trail and
surrounding trees and plants when extending the road.1130 South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
3
Such a lovely trail to walk along - please keep as many trees as possible with the new road
development along here.1130 South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
4
Can’t wait to see University extended and 3rd St connected to it. Again, too few ways in and out of
residential areas and housing developments.1150 3rd Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
5 The addition of the 4-way stop sign here was great.1170 Southeast Olson Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
6 Love this park 2445 Southeast Willow Brook Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
7
These ponds and the surrounding trails are key features of this neighborhood. With the
community expanding in this area, I am afraid these ponds will be the only areas left that resemble
nature nearby. Please consider keeping some surrounding open land and trees in this area and
along the remaining part of the trail and ponds on the other side of Grand Prairie Parkway.2727 Southeast Grand Prairie Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
8
Would love a public pool. Only other suggestion would be to make it indoor/outdoor so it can be
used all year round.30161 Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
9 The bike trail / wide sidewalk here is great! Now it just needs connecting to the wider city system.31168 Ashworth Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
10
We should expand or add another! Wonderful place. If the sound bothers you, perhaps something
you should've considered when purchasing your home.31454 312th Pl, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
11 Love this idea. It would be nice to have a biking trail away from the highway.345 Dunham Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
12
I really appreciate the change to blinking yellow left turns here. It has improved my commute
drastically.450 Hickman Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
13
I LOVE this building and being able to rent it. Given how far out is rented, I think Waukee could use
many more similar to this at various parks throughout city.480 Northeast Fox Run Trail, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
14 Love this park and the trails around it. A great benefit for the neighborhood for kids and adults!485 Northeast Fox Run Trail, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
15
This is a fantastic community park, catering to many different people and uses. My only complaint
is that there are no amenities to walk to from here.50 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
16 Norms Pub!530 6th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
17
I love the improvements in businesses on the triangle. Would love if this was developed even
further and at a faster pace.550 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
18
Thanks for the pedestrian and bike underpass here. These need to be more common on busy
roads. Crossing at traffic signals is only moderately safe due to turning vehicles paying no
attention, and underpasses also keep everyone moving more efficiently.660 Southeast Alice's Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
19 Love this park! and the walking path around the pond. Amazing addition to Waukee 700 NW Douglas Pkwy, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
20
This park and many of the others have been a wonderful addition to the community. I love that
every park is a little different and I really appreciate the accessible features here.700 NW Douglas Pkwy, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
21
This pond is an awesome addition here. Get to see some wildlife raise their young and it's just nice
to look at. Thank you!895 Southeast Olson Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
22
As I have begun to commute to work by bike, I've discovered this little area. It's quite nice and a
little highlight of my commute to West Des Moines in the mornings. I hope that one day we have
more little spaces like this.925 Southeast Olson Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
23
Such a good resource for Waukee. Please don’t remove it when you build the new library, would
be beneficial to have 2 libraries.950 South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
24
While there are a ton of intersections that scare me to cross on my bike, this is not one of them. I
find that being able to stop in the refuge in the center makes it a lot easier to get across, and
traffic is moving slower due to the roundabout.South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
25
I like the thought of an 18 hole course. Waukee is a huge town and to say oh well drive to Norwalk
is silly. This will be a great addition and I really appreciate Waukee giving residents ONE 18 hole
golf course.Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
26
The loudspeaker at the new NW high school, during sporting events, can be heard CLEARLY south
of the Triangle area. The current City of Waukee laws permit this "noise" and law needs to be
changed. There needs to be decibel limits that are clearly noted and abided by.605 North 10th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
27
The sitting traffic, during school pick up times, on Ashworth Drive is dangerous. Changes were
made but it didn't fix the larger traffic problem. If you're heading east or west on Ashworth Dr,
there are cars sitting in the lanes and you have to maneuver around them. "Sitting" traffic should
not be allowed on residential streets. This is a daily occurrence during school days.395 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
28
Restaurants and bars placed within range of homes should not be allowed to exceed sound limits
more than 1-2 times a year, even with permits. Sound blocking material should be required on the
sides of the establishments that are facing the homes. The homes in this area have been here for
50+ years and it's not fair to have new locations pop up so that we cannot enjoy our own
backyards and our homes anymore. We all have .50+ acre lots and homes are further back and
noise is heard INSIDE our own homes for hours and in our backyards. This severely limits home
and property enjoyment.788 Hickman Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
29
Ashworth Dr is way busier than it should be as it's being used for test drives from the Deery
Dealership, also as a shortcut to Ute to get to the interstate and shortcut to University. Although
it's a neighborhood, daily we have MANY speeders going 50+ mph and we have large trucks using
it all the time.905 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
30
An expanded golf course only benefits a subset of the community. The existing course has several
no trespassing signs making it clear it's not a community resource. Love the idea of an expansive
green space and potential for water access similar to Raccoon River Park. Would love to see
amenities with walking trails and access to nature. Please allow a vote on the golf course similar
to what was offered for the aquatic center.30503 310th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
I Like This
I Dislike This
Imagine Waukee 2040 Update
Map Title: Existing Conditions Map
Tool Type: Social Map
Report Date Range: 14 May 2025 - 28 Jun 2025
Date Exported:2 Jul 2025 12:23 pm
Comment
Number Comments Address
31
I thought for sure "Kee Town Loop" was a temporary/joke name for this area when that sign first
went up. Please take that name down and don't use "Kee Town" for anything related to Waukee.2980 Southeast Grand Prairie Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
32
There is a blind 90* turn coming out from under a tunnel on the bike trail here. It's a recipe for a
crash.Southeast Westown Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
33 There is traffic backed up east-west most of the day trying to get across Warrior.85 North Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
34
I know that this is already done, but this was just the worst decision. Closing off an entrance to
Northview makes everyone needing to get in and out of this neighborhood go through Bellaire Dr
and it is a nightmare.90 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
35
Gun fire creates disturbance for hundreds of family. Sound pollution is a problem. No longer fits
with the community 31454 312th Pl, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
36
This is an amazing property to sit unoccupied. Would love if we could get an established brewery
in here. Would be a great attraction with the bike path!255 Northwest Sunrise Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
37
The parking on this road is atrocious. People are parking things for months on end and this road
clogs up because of it. Please remove the parking from this street.Northeast Archer Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
38
Want to add a +1 to the comment below. We have so many wide, high-speed roads that divide our
community. Would love to walk/bike to more places but it just doesn't feel safe.822 Southeast Alice's Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
39
This intersection is too busy. People travel at high-rates of speed in the directions without stop
signs. It is very dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike and should be a 4-way stop.Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50323, United States
40
This intersection is becoming increasingly dangerous. There have been several accidents here and
countless near-misses. It’s 200 yards from an elementary school and the road is heavily traveled.
This needs to be a 4-way stop.747 Northeast Westgate Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
41 Gun shots disturb residence. No longer fits in community.31454 312th Pl, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
42
This is a big eyesore and shots can be heard throughout the day even miles away. This is out of
place for the community that has grown around it and should be moved to a more rural location.31454 312th Pl, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
43 Please don't expand University Ave to the south of Warrior Lane.1200 South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
44 Cars continue to blow through the intersection with blinking lights when school kids are crossing Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50323, United States
45
Traffic volume has drastically increased here. Back-ups at the intersection, especially around
commute times, are sometimes 20 cars long. There have been several accidents and countless
near-misses.Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50323, United States
46 Traffic concerns Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50323, United States
47
Left arrow to turn onto Alice's from Hickman is way too short for AM commute. I sit through 3
light rotations most mornings. Because I can no longer turn onto Alice's Road from Douglas (due
to construction), this is my route, but that portion of the route takes forever due to the
misalignment of the traffic light settings to the needs of the traffic at that time of day.1085 Hickman Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
48
The gun shots can be heard for miles. This is not a peaceful environment for being outside with
kids. This gun range has so many houses, businesses and schools surrounding it and no longer fits
with the growing supposed family friendly community.31452 312th Pl, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
49
Every time I pass by straight from NE horizon Dr at the stop sign on the NE Westgate pkwy. Due to
the new plants planted in the middle of the road on Westgate pkwy. There is less visibility to pass
through straight from the NE Venture Dr. As the plants grow bigger in summer, I fear there will be
even less visibility.11 Northeast Westgate Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
50 Speeding and unsafe driving causes major concerns for residents 1055 Southeast Waco Place, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
51
I know the DOT handles light timing on Hickman but the whole string of lights makes for an awful
drive till Clive or you're headed to Adel. These new lights aren't worth the wealth of oil change
places and car washes they keep foisting upon us.110 Northwest 2nd Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
52
Congestion on Ute neat Indian Ridge & Prairie Bluff. The new commercial construction only
increases the risk of accidents. Consider a traffic light, extending the Northbound turn out lane
into PW II.32603 Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
53
Heavy traffic on Douglas - need stop light here - traffice from NE Westgate Drive pulls out in front
of other traffic on a daily basis. With all the new homes in the area - now heavy traffic area 732 Northeast Westgate Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
54 S Warrior Lane needs HUGE improvements!South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
55
We don't need a 18 hole golf course. Why not turn it into an outdoor space majority of the
community can use!
I feel like development here does not think about what people would actually use; but instead
considers how much money it can make the city. Disappointing to say the least.
Put it to a vote so residents can decide.U Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
56
This is city land that was dedicated park land that nothing was ever done with. There was
supposed to be a sidewalk to the school which would be extremely nice. There is also an area
behind the school that is just wasted space if you are not going to do anything with it. Either give
the land to the school, the houses around it, or do something with it. What is the point of
dedicated park land in neighborhoods if we are not going to do anything with it. Ideas for what to
do with it include community garden, additional walking trails, or at least complete the sidewalk to
the school that was in the plans. If the city is not going to do anything with it, they could at least
plant some trees to work as a wind break 665 Gray Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
57 Consider a stoplight at this intersection.Indian Ridge Drive, Adel, Iowa 50263, United States
58
This whole area is a eyesore. Abandoned construction/homes, over grown grass, trash blown over
and stuck in the fields. It's terrible for anyone who lives by this and has to see it everyday. Can
barely use the sidewalks because the grass and weeds have grown over.665 Southeast Tallgrass Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
59
As mentioned before, cars drive way too fast on Tallgrass Ln, especially heading west. When
drivers come up over the hill, just before the Westown Meadows Park, there are pedestrians
crossing and drivers can't see them until it's too late. We need signs in the area about children at
play, more speed limit signs and a 4 way stop sign at Willowbrook and Tallgrass. Crosswalks with
flashing lights would be even better.580 Southeast Tallgrass Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
Imagine Waukee 2040 Update
Map Title: Existing Conditions Map
Tool Type: Social Map
Report Date Range: 14 May 2025 - 28 Jun 2025
Date Exported:2 Jul 2025 12:23 pm
Comment
Number Comments Address
60
Hickman, University, Alice's, and to a lesser extent Meredith, Douglas, Ashworth, and Warrior
Lane, are all enigmatic of how much we prioritize driving everywhere in our city. Each of these
roads both serve as the only realistic way to navigate our city while also dividing each section of
our city by which of these roads encapsulate it. I hope that at some point we prioritize not only our
suffering in traffic, but also connecting the communities that are split off by these roads that serve
as barriers as much as they do a foundational piece of our transit system..822 Southeast Alice's Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
61
In general, I am disappointed in how this space is going to be used. Based on what I've seen from
the Civic Campus plans, this feels like little more than some excuse to justify turning Sugar Creek
into an 18 hole golf course. There are already a stunning number of these around the DSM metro,
so what justification do we have for spending our tax money on yet another one. Only a small
fraction of our citizens are going to be able to use this. Why choose this over building a better park
for everyone? Or even better, why not focus on developing a community space with not just green
space, but a place to park and walk around. Des Moines has great examples of this working in
downtown, West Glen in West Des Moines, and Prairie Trail in Ankeny.U Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
62
There is a high volume of speeding vehicles on SE Pleasant View Drive that pose a safety risk. To
help improve safety and reduce speeding, I recommend that the city consider installing either a
stop sign at the Prairie Creek intersection or a speed bump similar to the one recently added at the
Waukee Innovation and Learning Center. These measures would result in drivers needing to slow
down.1805 Prairie Creek Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
63
Buses leaving Timberline struggle to exit the campus because of traffic. Other buses traveling N
and S on Grant Pkwy break traffic laws to help their coworkers out. Private vehicles get in a hurry
and almost hit students crossing the streets. This needs attention asap. Maybe pave an exiting
backroad between timberline and Westown?2605 Southeast La Grant Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
64 Community Pool was voted down. Waste of tax payers dollars. Want a pool? Put one in your yard.30161 Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
65
There’s no sidewalk on the west side of this section of LA Grand. Many people, including school
kids, walk or bike here and can’t continue safely. The east side is narrow and bumpy, so a sidewalk
on the west would really help.1456 Southeast La Grant Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
66
We do not need an 18 golf course and sprawling city office building. 6th/Ute is a major road
handling a lot of traffic. You need to be looking into expanding it where it sits, and doing that all
the way to the interstate. Not diverting it around a giant waste of taxpayer money.U Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
67 Could you please stop building single ways in and out of housing developments?520 Spyglass Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
68
This road is well past needing repaved. Widen it, replace it, whatever you’re planning, please get it
done.South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
69
The lights on Ashworth/La Grant northbound and southbound take a very long time to change
from red to green. I’ve sat for so long waiting while there was no traffic on University.1000 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
70
Left turn green lights going from Grand Prairie north bound to University west bound are way too
short. Not even enough time for 3 cars to make it through before they change. Need to extend the
amount of time they stay green.Southeast Grand Prairie Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
71
The big billboard sign in the corner of Vibrant is being overshadowed by the building being built.
Now the sign seems out of place and you can’t see what it shows coming from the north side.3251 Ashworth Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
72 People driving way too fast through here, safety concerns with children residing on this street 755 Southeast Waco Place, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
73
I am concerned that NW 10th St between NW Douglas Pkwy and NW Sunrise Dr is extremely noisy
even through evening times. It's disturbing to the community to the West of NW 10th St. I think a
lot of the noise is coming from cars having to stop and go at the intersections. Perhaps we can
change the traffic lights to blinking red/yellow during non-peak hours? That way, cars won't have
to stop and go and would just be able to flow through.600 North 10th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
74
Guns are loud all over the community depending where the wind is blowing. We are becoming too
big and residential to be hearing gunshots all day long disturbing the peace. This belongs out in the
country. It also looks like a dump and isn't appealing for residents to be a member of.31452 312th Pl, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
75
This is currently the only way in/out of this development (without cutting through a parking lot).
School traffic often gets backed up making it difficult to leave.2355 Southeast La Grant Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
76
This is a MAJOR eyesore for the neighborhood and "entertainment district". It is currently
becoming overgrown again and hard to see cars coming up on Esker Ridge, the houses are
boarded and look bad, the fence is janky looking. It is frustrating that it has gotten to this point.700 Southeast Esker Ridge Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
77
Many speed on tallgrass ln, right next to this park. This intersection is only a 2-way stop and should
be a 4, and many children are often running around this area. Accident waiting to happen.2510 Southeast Willow Brook Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
78 Hard to see oncoming traffic, many speeders. Entire road ideally needs widened 900 North Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
79 This intersection is often very crowded, especially headed northbound 905 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
80
Since you've put the roundabout in this road is a MUCH heavier traveled road. You need to remove
street parking here so both sides of traffic can flow freely. OR you need to widen the street so that
two lanes of travel and parking can work. Often times trying to leave this neighborhood I can get
stuck waiting for a long time for all the cars to come through in the 'free' lane of travel. It's also
dangerous because some people don't understand they have to wait behind parked vehicles and
almost cause accidents.50 Bellaire Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
81 Stop light way to short for cars going south on Warrior.45 North Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
82 Dislike single lane here. Hoping it’s improved with the construction.2651 Alice's Road, Clive, Iowa 50325, United States
83
This side of the intersection gets backed up a lot any given time and day. With all the new housing
going up so fast this intersection is way past its capacity limits. Just the South of Hickman part 905 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
Idea/Suggestion
Imagine Waukee 2040 Update
Map Title: Existing Conditions Map
Tool Type: Social Map
Report Date Range: 14 May 2025 - 28 Jun 2025
Date Exported:2 Jul 2025 12:23 pm
Comment
Number Comments Address
84
Remove some of the structure and distractions (i.e. plants) in this area so that drivers can better
see pedestrians. It's dangerous as a pedestrian and as a driver. Driven thru plenty of roundabouts
in other locations and never seen one "built up" like this.Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
85
This 4 way stop is dangerous. Lived here for many years and more and more drivers don't stop
BEHIND the stop sign or proceed to go thru without stopping. Wed. Farmer's Market days are
even more dangerous, especially if you're walker crossing at any of the intersections in this area.
Perhaps lights on the stop signs would help and police sitting there more often would remind
everyone to drive safely.360 6th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
86 Add Splash pad 452 10th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
87
Triumph Park has great slides, but it is a very uncomfortable park as a parent looking for places to
sit down in the shade AND keep an eye my children while they are playing. The cooling area is too
far from the slides, and the concrete bench in the wall north of the big slides is always too hot in
summer. Could you add more shade and benches, please?700 NW Douglas Pkwy, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
88
At this park, and several parks in Waukee, there is insufficient shade. Additionally, more parks
need play areas for young kids (babies and toddlers)522 Northeast Westgate Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
89 More parking is needed.295 Ashworth Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
90
There is currently nowhere in the city of Waukee to redeem used beverage containers. This would
be an easy access location for the community to take advantage of a mobile redemption depot.50 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
91
This community needs to be maintained at a better standard. Its completely overgrown, weeds,
trash blowing through it. It blocks cars from seeing other cars coming on the roads.700 Southeast Esker Ridge Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
92
The speeding on Esker Ridge is out of control. People fly down this road and the kids going and
leaving the school race up this street. This intersection could use a 4-way stop instead of 2-way to
slow the traffic down.465 Southeast Esker Ridge Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
93
Consider adding additional activities/amenities (e.g. swings) to give kids more to do at Spaghetti
Land 715 Northeast Dellwood Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
94
For the traffic traveling south on Grand Prairie, there needs to be a turning lane added for those
turning right to travel west on Esker Ridge. There is far too much traffic using this turn and is not
safe how it is currently set up 2820 Southeast Grand Prairie Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
95
Add trails
Add smaller parks as the city expands.11605 Meredith Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
96
It is so difficult to access Warrior Lane from Laurel no matter which direction you are trying to do.
When school is let out you might as well pack a lunch while waiting to get through that
intersection. With the light at Hickman another one there may not be feasible but something
MUST be done to alleviate this traffic snarl. There are too many businesses along SE Laurel that
have vehicles using Laurel.10 South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
97
Add speed reminders or monitor speeders. The limit is 35 MPH and speeders make it unsafe to
walk or bike across the street. This area is heavily populated with children, bikes, walkers,
toddlers and strollers. Traffic has increased significantly.360 6th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
98
The gravel parking lot near the new playground should be paved and parking stripes added. During
busy times, it is chaotic to park here. Also, the floor of the covered bridge adjacent to the gravel
lot needs to be replaced before it becomes a safety hazard.350 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
99
Would love to see a 24 hour emergency pet hospital. It's a 30 min drive to the closest emergency
clinic.Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
100
As this area develops, I'd love to see a public park (with a dog park section) to maintain some of
the greenery of this area.11th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
101
Don't know if there's anything the city can do about this, but the trees going all the way to the
corner here make this crossing a visibility nightmare for anyone cycling from the east side of the
intersection. Scares me every time.590 Southeast Brick Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
102
Continue the Sugar Creek trail along the creek. More shady and scenic spots for walking and biking
would be cool.345 Dunham Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
103
A lot of trash (likely blown from garbage day) gets caught along the brush and trees surrounding
the trail. Adding a garbage can midway between this path might increase the likelihood of people
picking up trash on their walk by.805 Southeast Tallgrass Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
104
Traffic volume has drastically increased here. Back-ups at the intersection, especially around
commute times, are sometimes 20 cars long. There have been several accidents and countless
near-misses. Making this intersection a 4-way stop would improve safety for drivers and
pedestrians in this area.Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50323, United States
105
Please add a bike path/sidewalk on Ashworth or UTE. There is no way for anyone south of UTE to
get anywhere safely without using a vehicle. I have seen kids trying to bike on Ashworth and it is
dangerous!32056 Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
106 Create or connect existing trails from southern Waukee to RRT and/or other area trails 32603 Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
107
This corner NE Venture Dr and NE Dartmoor Dr. has become very hazardous with several close
calls everyday. Traffic DARTS across NE Dartmoor Drive being impatient for clear crossing. Need
either 4 way stop or camera to monitor 95 Northeast Dartmoor Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
108 Please add a 4 way stop sign. How fast people drive through this intersection is so dangerous.512 Northeast Westgate Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
109
Safer way for children & parents to cross University between the townhomes & Glynn Village.
There are so many children who cross this road alone, cars dont see them come up in the ditch;
cars are speeding & on their phones. There have been a few close calls!
Flashing light crosswalk would be ideal!50 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
110
Flashing crosswalk could be used here. So many cyclists/pedestrians cross here and cars do not
stop for them.590 Southeast Brick Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
111
The dog park is a great feature but could do with some improvements. The drinking fountains
need upgrading (water pressure is terrible & the drinking bowl is often blocked). Much more shade
is needed. The walking path around is nice! We could have a community day where dog park users
could help the city clean up the park and getting it looking fresh and clean again.1145 Southeast Olson Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
Imagine Waukee 2040 Update
Map Title: Existing Conditions Map
Tool Type: Social Map
Report Date Range: 14 May 2025 - 28 Jun 2025
Date Exported:2 Jul 2025 12:23 pm
Comment
Number Comments Address
112
Would love to see a walking path around this park. Parking needs huge improvement with better
restroom facilities.1050 4th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
113
Would love to see more activities put on at the park. I feel like with the new playground more
people use the park so more community activities would be nice.50 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
114
The stream that runs through Centennial Park needs to be cleaned up and maintained better.
Because of the grates covering the holes, trash piles up on them which in turns doesn’t allow
adequate water flow so water becomes stagnant and smells so bad!1000 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
115
Flashing light crosswalk for children coming and going from the park. The amount of children that
cross this road and cars speed along here is scary!Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
116 A bathroom facility at this park would be nice.715 Northeast Dellwood Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
117
Stop signs are needed on Gray Ave. Traffic is getting much heavier due to people cutting through
to 6th from 10th and cars often go 40mph+ on this street. Multiple neighbors have been passed
trying to back out of their driveways by other cars. Stop signs at 8th and 9th would help. A sign
noting “Watch for children at play” would also be helpful since there are so many kids on this
street.800 Gray Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
118
This intersection is terrible with backed up traffic east/west most of the day, a stop sign or
roundabout is needed 48 Laurel Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
119
Waukee taxpayers pay for the golf course, however, unlike other cities, get no additional benefits
from the course. Waukee taxpayers should get discounted greens fees, memberships, and priority
on leagues.1505 6th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
120
This is city parkland that sits between and behind houses on Gray Ave & 8th St. It is currently very
poorly maintained and overgrown. Would like to see some development of this land with a
walking path like was on the original plat map for this neighborhood. If no development is ever
planned would like to see this land given to property owners to improve and plant trees as a
landscape buffer between properties and the school.665 Gray Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
121
This needs to be a four way stop. People come up over the hill from Little Walnut Creek into the
neighborhood speeding. It is dangerous with the number of littles that live out here and dangerous
for those backing out of their driveways, too.880 Northwest Prairie Rose Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
122
The fencing at this park is in really rough shape (at least in some spots), and it would be nice to
have these fields reconfigured a bit. Also, it would be nice to have an actual restroom building
here somewhere, instead of a porta-potty.1050 4th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
123 This intersection needs a left turn lane and/or signal North Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
124
This could be a roundabout. This would allow for more efficient traffic as parents drop off their
children at school. I think there should be three roundabouts to access the Waukee High School on
University Ave.550 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
125
All of the SW neighborhoods (DayBreak, Willowpines, Painted Woods, etc.) are not accessible to
the rest of the city except by vehicle. Ute continues to see increased traffic counts and the current
road surface is deteriorating more and more each year. It would be great to see Ute re-surfaced
and widened to include turn lanes into neighborhoods and bike trails connecting the various
neighborhoods to the city along Ute and/or Ashworth Road.32059 Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
126 Expand farmers market/industrial food court with outdoor space to sit and activities 250 10th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
127
Having seen multiple car accidents at this intersection, I can't understand how this intersection
exists as anything other than a roundabout.661 Northeast Venture Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
128
Multiple times in the last year I have been passed by another motorist while driving down this
street doing the speed limit. This is obviously a dangerous behavior on any residential street that is
not equipped for it; however, this street is also in front of a school. I, and I'm sure parents and
children, would appreciate if there were traffic calming measures put in place to encourage drivers
to drive safely in front of this school.850 6th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
129
In my opinion, this is the best we get in Waukee to building community outside of the Triangle.
However, a lot of this is due to the work West Des Moines has done in this same area. I wish that
there were both some community space in this area as well as easier and safer ways across
Ashworth to access the wonderful businesses along Alice's 1280 Bishop Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
130
This is a scary bike path crossing as a cyclist because traffic does not slow often when there are
cyclists waiting to cross, and as a driver, it's scary as a bike can seemingly come out of nowhere
and be at this crossing. Something to calm traffic, both bikes and cars, would be appreciated here.90 10th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
131
While agree with my fellow citizens who have noted that this intersection causes backups on 10th
street and potentially blocking Hickman, I am also aware that a lot of this traffic is heading to I-80
via 6th/Ute that will be alleviated as the Civic Campus project progresses and 10th street becomes
the main method for traveling to the interstate. Still, I would appreciate if the city did more to
encourage drivers to go down to 6th street instead of using Ashworth here.90 10th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
132
This is applicable at each of these intersections along Hickman, but almost none of these have
painted crosswalks. Just painting these would help make us feel safer when we go to cross this
*very* wide road by showing drivers where pedestrians cross and where they should stop their
cars.650 Hickman Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
133
The underground tunnel play feature has not held up well. It would be nice to have artificial turf
on top of it to avoid the dirt/mud and run-down look of what is still a new park.505 Northeast Bowman Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
134
Please continue the bike path along sugar creek down to the interstate. Use imminent domain if
necessary.275 Southeast Westown Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
135
Please add a sidewalk, boardwalk, or even just widen the gravel edge along all of Ute to connect
the various Painted Woods, Daybreak, and other developments.3241 Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
136
As growth continues west, consider space for community parks. Our parks in existing developed
areas meet the needs of most neighborhoods, and NRPA guidelines should be considered going
forward.28325 300th St, Waukee, Iowa 50003, United States
137 So many missing sidewalks even on established townhomes and businesses Alice's Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
Imagine Waukee 2040 Update
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Comment
Number Comments Address
138
Make the Triangle area a focal place to go. Encourage store fronts to have upgraded, signage,
encourage independent restaurant owners to open facilities here. Move the Waukee Art Fest to
this region. Add better parking. Encourage the silos to relocate. Waukee is not a small farm town
and grow with the population. Provide incentives for businesses to set up that fit the niche of this
becoming a more upscale section of the city. It has true potential.645 Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
139
Make a bike/walking overpass here. This is an official bike path and very heavy traffic. Walkers and
bikers need to be encouraged and make travel safer with overpass/underpass on busy
intersections.150 Southeast Alice's Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
140
Need sidewalk/bike path access on Alice’s Road. This is needed from Hickman past Radiant
Elementary. There are so many walkers )and bikers) and it is dangerous. You added zillions of
apartments and no sidewalks on this major road to services.Alice's Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
141
Make this park more of a showcase for Waukee. Add more interest areas - better landscaping,
upscale seating, art installations and a more permanent outdoor music stage that looks appealing.
Could add food truck stops with music venues on a more routine basis. Good lighting too.350 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
142
I recommend changing the signal to a flashing yellow arrow after the green arrow phase. This
would allow drivers to make left turns when it is safe to do so, rather than waiting through an
unnecessarily long red light.Southeast Westown Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
143
With the pending construction and addition of University expanding to Ute, a nice brick fence to
make the cemetery more private and a quiet place would be nice.1005 6th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
144 Over grown and an eye sore for most of the year. Dead trees that need to be replaced.1000 6th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
145
Don’t build anymore schools on main roads in and out of town. Traffic jams when school is starting
and letting out get annoying. At least put the parking entrances and exits on side streets.850 6th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
146
there should be sidewalks at least on one side of tenth to allow kids to easily bike up to triumph
park. Right now it is not safe for my kid to get there, even though we live close by. We shouldn't
have to drive cars to parks that are less than half a mile from home.250 10th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
147
Connecting the streets here would help the flow of traffic between the shopping area and
adjacent neighborhood Southeast Archer Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
148
Walking trail around pond should connect to trail running along north side of Douglas Pkwy and
not just go under Douglas Pkwy. This would allow people to walk a loop all the way around the
pond.Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50323, United States
149 Playground could use some remodeling and expansion. Lots of houses in this area.1660 Southeast Greenbriar Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
150 Fantastic new playground!!!! Great work!!50 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
151
Add hourly rental rates to make this a more accessible option for small community groups.
Waukee has no affordable meeting options for groups like Girl Scouts.522 Northeast Westgate Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
152
The pricing to use the lodge at this park is too expensive for most small community troops. Local
Girl Scout troops have almost no options for meeting spaces in Waukee because they're priced out
of the community buildings.50 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
153
I know this a tiny park and probably low on the priority list but there are lots of kids in this
community who would love to use this park! Small upgrades would be an amazing amenity for the
community.775 Southbranch Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
154 A crosswalk marker would be nice to have here, as it directly leads to the park from the trail 2450 Southeast Willow Brook Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
155
The new signs help with this cross walk, but it can still feel intimidating with the hill and cars
coming quickly from Westown. Can lights be added to the signs?2255 South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
156 I wonder if a turn lane here could be beneficial to improve traffic flow 275 Southeast Westown Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
157
Amenities (lodging, food, etc.) for visitors with good walkability to access various event spaces in
the area. Maybe a park to entertain families in between athletic events.Southeast Grand Prairie Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
158
The left turn light here can take FOREVER when no one is even coming from the other way. It
would be nice to have yellow flashing arrows so we could turn when needed. Much like Hickman
was recently changed to.1145 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
159
This needs a light on the right side, lower than the normal ones. When driving into the sun it isn't
always the easiest to see the lights hanging over and having one lower off to the side would help.
Most of the other lights around already have this.Southeast Archer Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
160
Locust, Cedar, Spruce, Northview all have kids biking/walking to/from Waukee Elementary. 10th St
is getting very busy, these crossings could benefit from some type of crossing signal for the kids.
For example South Middle School and LA Grant has one.955 Spruce Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
161 Community Swimming Pool - Similar to the Clive aquatic center.30161 Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
162
This intersection gets clogged often, rush hour, school drop off, pickup, after football games, etc. It
could certainly benefit from a round a bout.10 South Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
163
Please add a stop sign to this intersection. Increased traffic and the bend in the road make
crossing Westgate on Bowman difficult (particularly if trying to turn left and needing to cross
Westgate). The sightlines around the curved road are difficult to see around. This would also make
pedestrian crossing easier.555 Northeast Bowman Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
164
Please keep this trail clean. There is constant garbage and grass/tree overgrowth along this
stretch.Ashworth Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
165
Desperately need a paved trail for bikes along N Warrior between Meredith and Douglas. Traffic is
very unsafe for my kids trying to get to any parks from Ashley Acres.600 Little Walnut Creek Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
166
Would love a bike path to go under this road. Crossing Alice on Douglas road on foot or on bike is
daunting. Also need a sidewalk all the way through on Douglas 870 Alice's Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
167
The sidewalks need to be completed in this area. There is a break not connecting it to the
restaurants and gas station so people walking and biking with then walk on the road. There is far
too much traffic and with the curves it is hard to see where the people are.700 Southeast Esker Ridge Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
Mobility improvement
Imagine Waukee 2040 Update
Map Title: Existing Conditions Map
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Report Date Range: 14 May 2025 - 28 Jun 2025
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Comment
Number Comments Address
168
Traffic volume, back-ups, and high rates of speed are all issues at this intersection. Its proximity to
an elementary school makes these things especially concerning. This should be a 4-way stop.747 Northeast Westgate Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
169 Too much speeding down residential streets; traffic needs to be directed to Hickman or University 1585 Southeast Hawthorne Ridge Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
170 Make this a four-way stop to improve traffic safety for drivers and pedestrians.742 Northeast Westgate Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
171
There should have been an easement considered when the development was approved for a
sidewalk to gain access to schools, ball fields, and play areas since North Warrior has high traffic
and no shoulder or sidewalks in place to navigate to these areas.1325 Northwest Brooks Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
172 Sidewalks on Alice and through Douglas here would be a huge improvement for bikers and runners 3203 Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
173
Really need to add sidewalks here. Please stop adding roads without at least one side having a
sidewalk. It really just demonstrates that we think about cars first and people second.870 Alice's Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
174
We need to think about getting around by ways other than cars. I've gone by bike here, but I don't
dare cross anywhere nearby. Have to go to Waco then cut back to have any semblance of a safe
crossing of University. Then once here, you're greeted by a sea of pavement and just praying that
someone doesn't back out in front of you. Sidewalks and paths to the businesses that help people
get here, not cars, would be helpful! I often find I'm the only one biking here, and I completely
understand why.1222 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
175
It doesn't have to be right here, but a pedestrian and bicycle underpass somewhere on University
between Brick and Boone would be great. The only crosswalk is at Waco Pl. and vehicles turning
right pay no attention to pedestrians. Crossing anywhere else is like playing a game of Frogger.1500 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
176
Blinking lights do not stop cars from speeding through intersection, especially when elementary
school kids are crossing (NW highschool school dismissal)Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50323, United States
177 Not safe Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50323, United States
178
Finding a way to make Ute/6th street a 4 lane road. As homes are popping up in this area of town
left and right traffic gets quite heavy at peak hours.1436 6th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
179
Improved buffering for the trail along Hickman would make the trail feel safer, and encourage
more users to take advantage of it being here. Even something small, like native plantings or
bushes, would be helpful.605 Hickman Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
180
I've noticed that some intersections have started having flashing yellows for right turns to protect
pedestrians. We need larger intersections, like this one, to follow suit and have those as well.1085 Hickman Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
181
I believe it is this intersection on the path (but could be the next intersection). The stop sign facing
bikers traveling West is extremely faded (fully grey and barely readable). A replacement would be
great!265 5th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
182 Would love to see a sidewalk to be able to get to downtown Waukee safely!30901 Ute Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
183
PLEASE connect the sidewalk path all the way around the back greenspace of Westown meadows
park. The sidewalk only connects from the north side of the park leaving an odd dead end, instead
of continuing the sidewalk to connect to the sidewalk along Tallgrass. So many people have to take
the long way around if they are on the Tallgrass sidewalk and want to cut over to the path leading
to Maxwell Dr.620 Southeast Maxwell Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
184
Terrible traffic congestion with pedestrians trying to cross Douglas @ NE Westgate. Need
crosswalk lights, traffic signal or roundabout.Douglas Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50323, United States
185
My wife and I have enjoyed walking to the triangle from our house south of the Deery dealership
since moving to the area. This intersection makes us nervous though as people quickly turn left
and then right onto Maple Street without looking for pedestrians using the intersection.310 7th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
186
It seems irresponsible to me that when constructing/opening a brand new high school and
community park, you would not make sure this area had the proper micromobility infrastructure
connecting the area to residences in close proximity at the time of opening. There are a lot of
people living south of Hickman who have tried to walk to this park and have to walk on the side of
the road or make the decision that it is too dangerous and turn around. Since high school kids and
their parents are making the same choice with this new high school, it seems odd that this stretch
of road wasn't improved even with a temporary measure at the same time.North 10th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
187
It is quite challenging to move north/south in Waukee by bike in my experience without going to a
street. This could be a good spot to connect from Hickman down to University with a bike path
along a nice little area that isn't used by much right now.455 Southeast Crabapple Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
188
Is there a reason that this should be a through street for cars? I don't think this is a road we should
be encouraging people to drive through. Instead, this could be a good opportunity to cut off this
road to cars and to turn this into a bike and car path that can host vendors for events.1212 Park Road, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
189
I don't understand why this doesn't connect down to University with a bike path. Doing so would
provide a nice connection to cyclists going to/from the Triangle from/to the Kettlestone area
further down University.665 Southeast University Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
190
This is a very busy street ( and is all gravel) lots of residents drive on to get north of Kee Town.
Would like to see this paved and a bike trail added to connect to the Grand Prarie Parkway trail.10865 Brookdale Drive, West Des Moines, Iowa 50266, United States
191
Pave Wendover Road and add bike path to connect neighborhood to current trails (Waukee School
District)10805 Westport Drive, West Des Moines, Iowa 50263, United States
192
I know this land isn’t developed yet so no sidewalks but would be so great to cross the road safely
here with a pedestrian signal and some sidewalks. Lots of families live in this area and our
community could be so much more walkable!Southeast Archer Avenue, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
Imagine Waukee 2040 Update
Map Title: Existing Conditions Map
Tool Type: Social Map
Report Date Range: 14 May 2025 - 28 Jun 2025
Date Exported:2 Jul 2025 12:23 pm
Comment
Number Comments Address
193
Widen the road and add turning lanes for traffic going to and from the of high school. Have tunnel
or bridge under/over Hickman as well as under/over 10th for safer bike and foot traffic using the
trails 90 10th Street, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
194
Sidewalk switches sides of the street but there is no crossing. In the mornings I see students trying
to cross amid traffic. Either continuing the sidewalk on the northside up to the stoplight or adding
a lighted crosswalk could help 105 Southeast Westown Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
195
Side walk just stops. Would be nice it if could continue and a trail be placed along Ute to connect
residential areas to the new civic campus & schools.275 Southeast Westown Parkway, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
199 Intersection is chaotic and not safe.North Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263, United States
Other