Hunter
08/26/22
The city of North Liberty is making plans to infuse Centennial Park with several upgrades, including an event center.
The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that a design concept for the $17.7 million project was presented to the North Liberty City Council this week. Along with the event center, the design includes an outdoor stage, open air pavilion, splash pad and garden to honor city veterans.
City Administrator Ryan Heiar told the Council that the project will be a way to recruit and retain both employees and employers in the city.
With the initial design concept in place, the city will work on fundraising. Officials hope to tap into the state Destination Iowa program, which has set aside $100 million in available grant money to help communities like North Liberty move forward on shovel-ready attractions.
The city created a master plan for Centennial Park in 2012 after purchasing the land in 2010. The fourth phase in the plan, which included driveways, permeable paver parking, trails, and age-appropriate play features, was completed this summer.
The proposed 13,000 square-foot event center would accommodate up to 300 people and include an exterior stage facing south toward the open lawn. A proposed adjacent open air pavilion could host separate events or used in conjunction with the event center. The splash pad would be located south of the existing playgrounds.
A place for visitors to honor North Liberty residents who have died in combat or served in the military is also proposed, with an open air shelter and garden.
Officials hope to start construction on the project in December 2023.