May 5, 2023 (DES MOINES) – At yesterday’s (Thursday’s) meeting, the Enhance Iowa Board awarded $1.8 million in Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) grants to pool projects in Keota and Washington, park improvements in West Okoboji and a clubhouse in Marcus. In addition, the Board awarded two Sports Tourism grants totaling $22,570 to events in Carroll and Des Moines.

Details for the projects receiving CAT grants follow:

Project Name: Keota Pool & Aquatic Project, Keota
Total Project Cost: $1,702,044
Amount Awarded: $500,000
Project Description: This project includes the construction of a heated pool with zero-depth entry, an agricultural-themed splash pad for toddler play, a diving board, four-lane lap swim area, bath house and a meeting place for private parties. Planned amenities include a rock climbing wall, zip line, basketball hoops and a volleyball net.

Project Name: YMCA of Washington County, Washington
Total Project Cost: $8,245,466
Amount Awarded: $500,000
Project Description: This project includes the construction of an indoor aquatic center with a six-lane competition length lap pool, a recreation pool, two saunas, a whirlpool and spectator seating area.

Project Name: Terrace Park Beach & Alex Danbom Memorial Park Project, West Okoboji
Total Project Cost: $ 1,822,137
Amount Awarded: $500,000
Project Description: This project includes improvements to beach access, additional parking, signage, restroom enhancements, a new playground and a pedestrian crosswalk.

Project Name: Marcus Community Golf Clubhouse and Recreation Center
Total Project Cost: $1,200,000
Amount Awarded: $300,000
Project Description: This project includes the construction of a new clubhouse and recreation center that will serve as an event venue, restaurant, and virtual sports facility.

Details for the projects receiving Sports Tourism Marketing grants follow:

The City of Carroll was awarded $2,570 toward marketing the Kick It Up youth soccer tournament on June 10, 2023, for boys and girls U10, U12 and U14. The City plans to expand its existing marketing to Sioux City, Des Moines, Ames, Council Bluffs and Omaha.

Polk County and Downtown Events Group were awarded $20,000 to promote RAGBRAI’s overnight stop in Des Moines on July 26, 2023. Funds will be used for print materials, social media marketing and signage.

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, 127 CAT grants have been awarded by the board, totaling $42,040,023. The next Enhance Iowa Board meeting is scheduled for June 1, 2023.