In a significant development for West Des Moines, the City Council officially validated the findings of the 2025 Special Partial Census during a dedicated meeting on December 30, 2025. This acknowledgment not only confirms the city’s population growth but also secures additional state funds for crucial infrastructure projects.
The U.S. Census Bureau’s certification reported that specific census tracts and blocks comprise 18,066 residents and 9,257 housing units. This represents a rise of 5,236 residents, or a 7.6% increase, compared to the 2020 Census data for those areas. Consequently, the city’s estimated total population has reached 73,959, up from 68,723 in 2020, highlighting West Des Moines’ thriving economic landscape and attractiveness as a leading community in Iowa.
With this certification, the path is clear for updating population-based allocations, leading to an expected increment of $727,804 in Road Use Tax revenue for 2026. This is projected to accumulate to around $3,714,942 through 2030, based on per capita estimates. The city initially invested $405,345 to cover the census costs, and the U.S. Census Bureau is obligated to provide a final account within 120 days.
“This certification marks another milestone in West Des Moines’ remarkable growth story,” stated Mayor Trimble. “These funds will directly support our roads, bridges, and vital infrastructure to keep pace with our expanding community.”
The certified results have been forwarded to the Iowa Secretary of State for state endorsement and distribution to relevant entities, such as the Iowa Department of Revenue and Treasurer of State.
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