Full Breakdown
Des Moines Plans Lighting Project at Waveland Golf Course Amid Community Concerns
2/27/2026, 1:31:36 PM
Project Overview and Goals
The city of Des Moines is initiating a $1.5 million lighting project at Waveland Golf Course, located at 4908 University Ave, which is recognized as the oldest public golf course west of the Mississippi River. The project aims to extend tee time hours and enhance recreational activities, such as sledding, by illuminating nine holes along the north and west boundaries of the course. Parks Director Ben Page emphasized that this initiative could generate additional revenue for the city, particularly in light of recent property tax reforms in Iowa.
Community Concerns and Perspectives
While some community members see potential benefits, there are significant concerns regarding light pollution and its impact on local wildlife. Waveland Park Neighborhood Association President Todd Snell acknowledged the project's potential advantages but expressed the need for clarity on how far the lights would extend into residential areas and their effects on the nearby Drake Municipal Observatory.
Resident Chris Collins articulated worries about the disruption of the neighborhood's tranquility, recalling negative experiences with bright lighting from a nearby Topgolf facility. He plans to attend the city's open house to voice his concerns about light pollution and its effects on local wildlife, particularly the bird sanctuary in Cummins Woods.
Official Responses and Project Details
City officials, including Parks Director Ben Page, have stated that they are aware of the community's concerns and are committed to addressing them. Page assured residents that the lighting would be designed to minimize spillover into surrounding properties, as the golf course's bowl shape allows for downward-facing lights. The lighting systems from Musco Sports Lighting are also intended to comply with DarkSky International standards, which aim to protect sensitive ecological areas.
The project will utilize cost-effective LED technology, and while the new lights will allow for extended hours, there will be stricter regulations, including a prohibition on amplified portable speakers after a certain time. The current fee to play 18 holes is $30, and while the new fees for extended hours have not been specified, they are expected to be higher.
Upcoming Community Engagement
To facilitate dialogue between city officials and residents, a public open house is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, at the Waveland Golf Course Clubhouse. This event will provide an opportunity for neighbors to ask questions and express their views regarding the lighting project.
Conclusion
As Des Moines moves forward with the Waveland Golf Course lighting project, the city aims to balance recreational benefits with community concerns about light pollution and wildlife protection. The outcome of the upcoming public engagement will likely shape the project's implementation and address the residents' apprehensions.
