Corn Palace Plaza expansion enters design stage with plans to begin construction in 2025

Sam Fosness, The Daily Republic, Mitchell, S.D.
·2 min read

Apr. 26—MITCHELL — The Corn Palace Plaza expansion plan took a big step forward this month.

A landscape architect firm that designed the Corn Palace Plaza and other downtown features was approved to begin the design work during the April 15 Mitchell City Council meeting.

The expansion will take place where the Scoreboard Pub and Grille sits. In 2022, the city acquired the Scoreboard property next to the Corn Palace Plaza to allow for the plaza expansion project.

"We'll go through a workshop, and then do some discussions on how that space could be used," City Administrator Stephanie Ellwein said, noting the existing Scoreboard building will be demolished for the expansion to unfold.

Confluence is the landscape architectural firm designing the expansion of the Corn Palace Plaza. Confluence designed the plaza and downtown streetscape features that are being constructed at several Main Street intersections.

The building neighboring the Scoreboard, located at 514 N. Main St., is in the process of being remodeled into a rooftop bar and restaurant. Jason and Jen Bradley, who currently run the Scoreboard, will move their operations into the neighboring building when the remodel work is finished.

Council member John Doescher asked whether the Bradley's will be involved in the design of the plaza expansion. Doescher suggested that the addition to the plaza should mesh with Bradley's rooftop bar and restaurant.

"I hope they can match what they're doing so it doesn't look goofy," Doescher said.

Ellwein explained the goal of the plaza addition is to create the look and feel of "an entire entertainment space" that's consistent with the surrounding area.

When the design is completed, Ellwein said a 3D version of the expansion design will be provided to the city for further review.

According to Ellwein, the city's goal is to begin construction of the plaza expansion in 2025.

The Corn Palace Plaza has become a space for live music, farmers markets and other outdoor events. Ellwein said the expansion will enhance the entire plaza.