At this time, Governor Kim Reynolds and the Iowa Financial Improvement Authority (IEDA) introduced $14.1 million in grant funding for the next 4 initiatives via Vacation spot Iowa. The $100 million program, introduced in April, invests in transformational initiatives that can bolster the standard of life in Iowa communities and appeal to guests and new residents. 

The Hoover Presidential Basis has been awarded $5,000,000 towards an overhaul of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Department and the addition of two,250 sq. ft of up to date and interactive shows. The redesign and renovation will modernize the customer expertise, taking friends on a journey of studying about Iowa’s solely U.S. president and his spouse, First Girl Lou Henry Hoover. The award represents 25% of the full mission funding of $20,309,426. 

The Webster County Conservation Board and the Metropolis of Fort Dodge have been awarded $4,000,000 towards the Central River District Park and Discovery Middle. The middle will supply assembly areas, indoor and outside school rooms, a big interpretive space, and a scenic overlook with views of the Des Moines River. The award represents 17% of the full mission funding of $19,906,495, which additionally consists of a 1.3-acre stormwater therapy wetland and in-stream leisure options equivalent to a whitewater drop, fishing swimming pools and entry factors. 

The Metropolis of Mason Metropolis and Cerro Gordo County have been awarded $4,500,000 towards a number of initiatives that can improve the world as a biking/mountain biking vacation spot. These parts embody new single-track trails, a brand new bike park and pump observe, and key connectors within the North Iowa trails system. The award represents 40% of the full mission funding of $11,873,265 and also will play a key position in offering direct entry to all trails, including trailside facilities, and including enhancements to the Ingebretson Campground. 

Cinema Paradiso, LLC has been awarded $600,000 towards reworking an unoccupied Davenport construction right into a two-screen movie show referred to as The Final Image Home. With connections to Hollywood, the movie show would be the dwelling of unique occasions that includes actors alongside native filmmakers and movie screenings. The area will even embody a social lounge, cocktail bar, and a rooftop bar. The award represents 16% of the full mission funding of $3,719,075. 

IEDA started accepting functions on Might 9 and can proceed to evaluate functions as they arrive via December 31 or till funding runs out.  Functions are scored based mostly on eligibility, completeness, and the mission’s potential to satisfy this system aim of making transformational tourism sights. Cities, counties, nonprofits and different organizations can apply for Vacation spot Iowa grants via 4 separate funds: Economically Vital Improvement, Out of doors Recreation, Tourism Attraction, and Artistic Placemaking.  

Funded initiatives should be accomplished by June 30, 2026. For extra info on the Vacation spot Iowa program, go to iowaeda.com/destination-iowa/. Funding for this program is being made out there via the federal American Rescue Plan Act.