West Des Moines’ Historic Valley Junction has been re-designated as an Iowa Great Place and a Cultural & Entertainment District by the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs. These special recognitions were awarded this year to just 22 Iowa communities in Iowa. The state agency described Valley Junction as an “arts & culture mecca in the Midwest.” The area, which is pedestrian-friendly, includes seven art galleries and features programming and events year-round, including Gallery Nights, Valley Junction Arts Festival, Cinco de Mayo Celebration and Music in the Junction. As of early this year, Valley Junction is home to 164 businesses (97 retail, 52 service and 15 food and beverage).