The City of Des Moines marked a major milestone on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025 with a groundbreaking ceremony for the long-awaited new Redondo Pier.

According to the city, the Nov. 3 event celebrated the start of construction on the rebuilt waterfront landmark, which is expected to be completed in early 2026.

As we previously reported, council gave unanimous approval in July, 2025 to accept a $3.8 million dollar bid to rebuild the pier. The old pier was built in 1980, and has been closed since 2019 due to safety concerns.

Experts say that the pilings are suspected to be even older than the pier itself. Including the construction bid and all prior costs associated with design and planning of the pier, the total replacement cost comes to $5.8 million. The underwater phase of construction is projected to be completed by mid-February 2026.

Monday’s ceremony drew local and state leaders, including State Sen. Claire Wilson, State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti, members of the Des Moines City Council, and community residents who gathered to commemorate the beginning of the project.

Additional updates on construction progress are expected as the project moves forward.