Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Lt. Governor Judge Announces CAT Grants For Missouri Valley And Appanoose County
(Des Moines) Today, Lt. Governor Patty Judge announced $415,000 in Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) grants for a miniature steam train restoration in Missouri Valley and a sports and recreation facility in Appanoose County. The state’s Vision Iowa Board approved the awards at their meeting in Des Moines.
“These awards show that communities of all sizes can accomplish anything when the residents work toward a common goal,” said Judge. "One project provides new opportunities for Iowans to live active, healthy lifestyles while another will revitalize a unique destination for our families to enjoy."
“The Missouri Valley project has wonderful local history attached to it,” said Vision Iowa Board Chairman Andy Anderson. “Many people in the community remember riding on the miniature train when they were children. Those same people are the ones leading the charge in preserving this piece of the town’s history.”
The following projects were approved for grants awarded from the CAT Fund:
Watson Steam Train Restoration and Station/Museum – Missouri Valley
Total Project Cost: $587,932
Amount Requested: $279,391
Amount Awarded: $225,000
This project includes the complete restoration of the 1948 miniature Ottaway Steam Train for the riding enjoyment of local and visiting children. In addition, a 3,400-square foot station/museum will be constructed in Missouri Valley City Park. Locally designed for historic authenticity and education, the station will store and display the steam train, two miniature pump cars, a second antique train, a functioning train village and numerous museum quality items.
The award is contingent upon the completion of fundraising in 90 days.
Lelah Bradley Active Living Campus – Appanoose County (Centerville)
Total Project Cost: $978,932
Amount Requested: $195,786
Amount Awarded: $190,000
Phase One of the overall project includes the construction of the sports and recreation campus with multiple playing fields for public and school uses, a machine shed for maintenance materials and a combination concession, restroom and office building.
The award is contingent upon the completion of fundraising in 90 days with the request for more monetary support from the city and county.
The Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) Program provides financial incentives to communities for the construction of recreational, cultural, educational or entertainment facilities that enhance the quality of life in Iowa. Currently, 285 CAT awards have been granted by the board, totaling $95,586,777. The next Vision Iowa Board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 9, in Waterloo. For more information, visit www.visioniowa.org.