Construction officially began last week on the West Des Moines-based “eatertainment” venue Smash Park’s first franchise location in Pella. Developing the 22,345 sq ft. space is estimated to create more than 125 jobs over the course of the project to construct pickleball courts, craft food and drink dining experience, room for a variety of indoor and outdoor games, and party and event space. The building will be equipped with energy-efficient features such as LED lighting, lighting controls, and an energy-efficient variable air volume HVAC system with direct digital controls.

The Pella location is anticipated to open in the spring of 2022 and will employ approximately 85 people once operational. In addition, ownership intends to support Pella-area community and charitable organizations through special events and Serve Local fundraising, which will allow customers to select local organizations to receive a portion of the money they spend at Smash Park.

The Smash Park will be located just south of Highway 163 at exit 40 in the Prairie Ridge Development and Downing Construction Inc. of Indianola is the project’s general contractor. Shyft Collective of Des Moines is the architect.