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More Than Just Trails

Picture this: a sizzling summer day in Iowa, and everyone’s out enjoying themselves. You’ve got cyclists zooming down trails and paddleboarders gliding across rivers. These folks aren’t just having a blast; they’re also fueling the local economy. They swing by shops for gear, fill up their tanks, and wind down at local eateries or breweries.

A Boon for the Economy

Believe it or not, Iowa’s recreational trails are more than just a fun detour; they’re economic powerhouses. Iowa state and business leaders are betting big on these bicycle and water trails to spur growth. They’re hoping these trails will become magnets for economic development, much like skyscrapers and cranes.

ICON: The River Revolution

Enter the Iowa Confluence Water Trails (ICON), a public-private initiative launched in 2021. This ambitious project plans 80 upgrades along 150 miles of rivers and creeks. Managed by a coalition including the Great Outdoors Foundation, Central Iowa Water Trails Consortium, and others, ICON saw 250,000 users and generated a whopping $20 million in its debut year. The momentum is real.

Major Projects and Developments

Some recent gems include new riverside access points and the designation of the Beaver Creek and Des Moines River as state water trails. Not to mention, the Hubbell Trailhead near Gray’s Lake is in the works. These projects don’t just happen overnight; they’re the result of careful planning and investment. For instance, Iowa’s 2,000 miles of bicycle trails churn out an impressive $1.4 billion in gross state product annually. That’s a lot of mulah.

Attracting Talent and Tourists

Iowa isn’t just making waves in nature; it’s crafting an economic ripple. Projects like these give locals a reason to stick around and tourists a reason to check it out. With Central Iowa’s population expanding, the Des Moines area is thriving. But there’s still work to be done to boost the workforce, with Iowa needing skilled workers to fill about 54,253 job openings.

Community and Conservation

In July, they kicked off the Hubbell Trailhead at Gray’s Lake, featuring cool stuff like waveshapers and boat ramps. This is more than an aesthetic boost; it’s about catalyzing regional development. Debi Durham of the Iowa Economic Development Authority says these transformations are gold mines for tourism and local business. Expect more kayak rentals and cafes popping up, she adds.

ICON’s Community Impact

ICON isn’t just a project; it’s a movement. According to Stephanie Oppel, the exec director of ICON, these trails are a haven for the business sector focusing on attracting top talent. By reconnecting with waterways, Iowans are rediscovering local nature. And just when you think it couldn’t get better, there are fish hatches underway—never done before.

Safety First

What’s the main focus? Safety, of course. Whether it’s clearing riverways or promoting life jackets, ICON puts safety at the forefront. As Rich Leopold of Polk County Conservation puts it, they’re opening up miles of river for exploration. And hey, even the parks get a facelift with new hiking trails and riverbank improvements.

Upcoming Improvements

ICON is preparing to unveil its Harriet Street project, replete with boat access and urban wetlands. This isn’t just about recreation—it’s about creating a sense of place and belonging. People want to get back to their aquatic roots, and ICON’s making it happen.

ICON Water Trails at a Glance

• Launched: 2021 as a public-private partnership
• Scope: 80 planned improvements along 150 miles of rivers and creeks in Central Iowa
• Economic impact:
  • 250,000 users in 2022
  • $20 million in economic output in one season
  • Supports Iowa’s $8 billion outdoor recreation sector

Access Points

• 15 completed; 8 new this year; 50 more in development

Recent Milestones

• May 29: Beaver Creek and Des Moines River designated state water trails
• July 16: Hubbell Trailhead groundbreaking at Gray’s Lake
• Aug. 27: Harriet Street project ribbon cutting

Partners and Safety

• Partners: ICON, Great Outdoors Foundation, Greater Des Moines Partnership
• Safety measures: Dam modifications, cleared riverways, and life jacket promotion

So, next time you’re wandering around Iowa, remember it’s not just the open trails and glistening waterways; it’s a whole movement toward economic prowess and community bonding.