The Enhance Iowa Board today (Friday) awarded more than $3.7-million Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) grants, to projects in 12 Iowa communities. Among them, were projects in Tabor, Winterset, Red Oak and Woodbine. (See details below)

Project Name: Tabor Library Association, Tabor
Total Project Cost: $1,225,801
Amount Awarded: $186,877
Project Description: This project will include the construction of a 7,000-square-foot facility with library spaces for adults, teens and children, community room spaces for programming and relaxation, a commercial kitchen, a maker-space, an outdoor learning area and ample parking.

Project Name: Madison County Conservation Center, Winterset
Total Project Cost: $4,938,091
Amount Awarded: $450,000
Project Description: This project will include the construction of a 12,400-square-foot facility with an events and seminar room, exhibit room, STEM classroom, board room/library and administrative offices. Exterior improvements will include an outdoor courtyard with paved access drives and parking lots.

Project Name: Expand the Grand – Phase II, Red Oak
Total Project Cost: $923,842
Amount Awarded: $150,000
Project Description: This project will include the renovation of the adjacent building to accommodate an additional movie screen and seats as well as an expanded concession area.

Project Name: Woodbine Regional Wellness Center, Woodbine
Total Project Cost: $6,850,075
Amount Awarded: $450,000
Project Description: This project will include the construction of a two-level, 7,680-square-foot building to house interpretative displays, conservation and wildlife studies, wildlife exhibits and cultural history. An outdoor amphitheater will provide space for additional programming and group gatherings.

The Enhance 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. To date, 80 CAT grants have been awarded by the board, totaling $25,036,725. The next Enhance Iowa Board meeting is tentatively scheduled for October 1.