December 2, 2021 (DES MOINES) – At today’s (Thursday’s) meeting, the Enhance Iowa Board awarded $5,168,458 in Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) grants to projects in Adair, Creston, Davenport, Decorah, Epworth, Fort Madison, Grimes, Grinnell, Hartley, Keokuk, Marshalltown, Nevada, Sioux Center, Spirit Lake, Waukee and Woodbine.

The details for the some of projects receiving CAT grants follows:

Project Name: Adair Community Center, Adair
Total Project Cost: $749,025
Amount Awarded: $115,000
Project Description: This project includes the construction of a 4,800 square-foot, ADA-compliant, wood-framed building with meeting and kitchen space, bathrooms and a patio. The meeting space is designed to accommodate events up to 170 people.

Project Name: McKinley Park Aquatic Center, Phase 1, Creston
Total Project Cost: $1,613,325
Amount Awarded: $200,000
Project Description: This project includes the installation of an all-inclusive play area, including spray features, a play structure and dump buckets. This project also will convert the toddler pool into a zero-depth entry pool and add a toddler slide. A climbing wall in the deep pool area will be installed along with shade structures. In addition, the project will include updated and new electrical systems, lighting, heaters, filter building and mechanical systems.

Project Name: Willow Lake Nature Center, Woodbine
Total Project Cost: $4,224,283
Amount Awarded: $400,000
Project Description: This project includes the construction of a two-story Nature Center and office space for the Harrison County Conservation Board. This new center will provide a space for guests to discover, learn and explore more about the unique Loess Hills ecosystem and important water quality issues around them through dynamic displays, new trails, up-to-date technology and flexible classroom space.

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, 99 CAT grants have been awarded by the board, totaling $31,508,183. The next Enhance Iowa Board meeting is tentatively scheduled for January 6 (if board review or action is needed.) More info. on today’s announcement is available HERE.