Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Governor Culver Announces Four Vision Iowa Grants
Nearly $3 million awarded to projects in Birmingham, Clinton and Postville, as well as a regional trail project connecting Ankeny, Sheldahl, Slater, Madrid and Woodward
Des Moines—Today, Governor Chet Culver announced $2,970,000 in project grants for the cities of Birmingham, Clinton, and Postville, as well as for a regional trail project that will connect the cities of Ankeny, Sheldahl, Slater, Madrid and Woodward. The state’s Vision Iowa Board approved the awards at their meeting in Johnston.
“These projects will provide citizens and visitors alike with new recreational and educational opportunities,” said Governor Chet Culver. “I applaud these communities and the Vision Iowa Board for working together to make Iowa a more attractive place to live, work, and play.”
“The Ankeny to Woodward trail is a model of regional cooperation among five cities and four counties working together to better their collective quality of life,” said Vision Iowa Board Chairman Andy Anderson. “The crown jewel of the project will be a stunning bridge that crosses the Des Moines River in Boone County. Iowa artist David Dahlquist did a phenomenal job designing the bridge so that it’s both artistic and functional.”
Four technical workshops on applying for Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT), River Enhancement Community Attraction and Tourism (RECAT) and marketing grants from the Vision Iowa Board will be held Friday, August 1, and Tuesday, August 26. Two sessions will be offered each day (10 a.m. – Noon and 1 – 3 p.m.) at the Iowa Department of Economic Development offices at 200 E Grand Avenue in Des Moines.
Vision Iowa Program Manager Alaina Santizo will lead the sessions and present tips on how to make an application more successful. She will also answer questions about the application process. Attendance is not mandatory before submitting an application. Space is limited. RSVP date and session time by Monday, July 28, to visioniowa@iowalifechanging.com or 515.242.4827.
The following projects were approved for grants awarded from the Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) Fund:
Birmingham Park Shelter Project - Birmingham
Total Project Cost: $152,350
Amount Requested: $45,000
Amount Awarded: $45,000
This project will replace the existing facility with a 2,508-square foot building. Amenities will include two handicapped-accessible restrooms, a kitchenette, dining/reception area and a freeze-proof drinking fountain outside. This award is contingent upon the completion of fundraising in 120 days.
Children’s Discovery Center - Clinton
Total Project Cost: $650,000
Amount Requested: $325,000
Amount Awarded: $325,000
Due to the expansion of Highway 30, the Felix Adler Children’s Discovery Center must move from its current location. This project will include the purchase of a 17,000-square foot building and its parking area as well as the physical adaptation of its interior. Specific renovation will include the installation and updating of signage; a humidity chamber to preserve the collections; creation of two rooms equipped with sinks, refrigerators and furniture to support rental function; bathroom renovations; gift shop updates and renovations; installation of a climbing wall; upgrading the admissions area; and a security system with a closed-circuit television. This award is contingent upon the completion of fundraising in 90 days.
N.I.C.H.E.S. - Postville
Total Project Cost: $2,165,550
Amount Requested: $875,550
Amount Awarded: $850,000
This two-story addition to the community’s existing recreation center will include an indoor swimming pool, racquetball court, community center and classroom space for preschool and child care services. This award is contingent upon the completion of fundraising in 90 days.
Ankeny to Woodward Trail
Total Project Cost: $12,490,432
Amount Requested: $2,272,927
Amount Awarded: $1,750,000
This rail to trail conversion project will start in Ankeny and run 25 miles in a north-northwestern direction to Woodward. The trail will incorporate Polk, Story, Boone and Dallas Counties and the cities of Ankeny, Madrid, Sheldahl, Slater and Woodward. The bridge over the Des Moines River will include six cantilevered overlooks and LED lights. This award is contingent upon the completion of fundraising in 120 days.
The Vision Iowa Program provides financial incentives to communities for the construction of recreational, cultural, educational or entertainment facilities that enhance the quality of life in Iowa. Currently, 296 CAT awards have been granted by the board, totaling $103,066,780. The next Vision Iowa Board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, in Storm Lake. For more information, visit www.visioniowa.org.
NOTE TO MEDIA – Vision Iowa Board Chairman Andy Anderson is available for comment regarding each individual project. To schedule a meeting time, contact Jessica O’Riley at 515.242.4754.