Business hub planned at Riccelli's restaurant site in Des Moines

Potentially dozens of businesses and as many as 15 apartments could take over the former site of Riccelli's Italian Restaurant.

Why it matters: The project hopes to cultivate small businesses while extending area retail and service options, Jason Cousineau, one of the project's developers told Des Moines plan and zoning commissioners earlier this month.

Zoom in: Cousineau and local developer Junior Ibarra propose demolishing the former restaurant to build two buildings on the site and an adjacent undeveloped parcel.

• The nearly 1.3-acre project would be constructed in two phases and resemble " The Suites ," Cousineau's Davenport development that provides space to cosmetologists.

Friction point: Neighbors voiced concern to the commissioners about possible traffic implications.

Yes, but: DSM's zoning staff noted that the property is along a major corridor and argued the project's business/housing concept compliments the area.

• The commission, in turn, unanimously recommended rezoning the property — which now goes to the City Council.

What's next: The sale of the property will likely be finalized if rezoning is completed in the coming weeks, Ibarra tells Axios.

• Construction could begin as early as next spring, he said.