Posted 22 July, 2025
The City of Des Moines and ICON Water Trails were awarded $1 million to improve the Birdland Park area’s 55 acres that contains a marina, shelter house, trail, playground and more than a mile of shoreline. The improvements will include the construction of more shelters and fishing locations, an ice-skating ribbon, inclusive playscapes and paddling and rowing launches, as well as the modern, ADA-accessible amenities to accompany everything. The total project cost is just over $15 million.
The City of Floyd was awarded $25,000 to build two new pickleball courts in their city park. The courts will have fencing and lighting that will be beneficial for local usage and league play. The total project cost is approximately $85,000.
The City of Harlan was awarded $402,667 to build the Dream Playground, which will feature accessible and inclusive equipment, shades, gathering structures and educational equipment. As the first step in a larger plan to revitalize and expand recreation opportunities in Harlan, the playground will serve as the central feature of their public park. The total project cost is nearly $1.6 million.
Hardin County was awarded $1 million to pave nine miles of the Iowa River’s Edge Trail to connect Eldora to Union. When completed, the trail will create a 32-mile corridor along the Iowa River. It will connect rural communities in two counties, supporting economic growth in smaller communities. The total project cost is nearly $6.2 million.
The CAT program provides financial assistance to communities for the construction of recreational, cultural, educational or entertainment facilities that enhance the quality of life in Iowa. Award recommendations for these funds are made by the CAT Review Committee to the IEDA Board for approval.