www.iowagreatplaces.gov

The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs issued awards to communities and individuals last week at the first annual Iowa Great Places Awards and Recognition Banquet in Des Moines on Friday, October 16, 2009.

Iowa Great Places is an initiative that combines state resources with local assets to build capacity in Iowa communities, regions, neighborhoods or districts that cultivate their unique and authentic qualities. The program calls for the state to work in partnership with each Great Place to identify existing grant programs and technical assistance that may be applicable to projects contained in their work plans.

EXCEPTIONAL PROJECTS

Categories divided into two tracts: projects for large places (population over 25,000) and small places (population below 25,000)

(Category): Exceptional Cultural Facility or Amenity: Creation or expansion of fine or performing arts venues, public art, museums, and/or welcome centers.
(Award Recipient over 25,000 pop): Dubuque, America’s River Phase II
(Award Recipient under 25,000 pop): Adams County, Corning Center for Fine Arts 

(Category): Exceptional Preservation or Adaptive Re-Use Project: Involved the rehabilitation of an historic property for a traditional or modern use.
(Award Recipient over 25,000 pop): Sioux City, ISU Design Studio West
(Award Recipient under 25,000 pop): Jackson County, Insane Asylum

(Category): Exceptional Recreation Project: Creation or expansion of recreational projects. 
(Award Recipient over 25,000 pop): Clinton, Eagle Point Park Disc Golf
(Award Recipient under 25,000 pop): Guttenberg, Guttenberg Riverfront Marina

(Category): Exceptional Streetscape or Community Enhancement: Designs that promote local sustainability, diversity, education, or community health.
(Award Recipient over 25,000 pop): Sioux City, ISU Design Studio West
(Award Recipient under 25,000 pop): Jackson County, Walkways for Life

(Category): Exceptional Marketing or Promotional Campaign: Campaigns that advance the project and plans of a place.
(Award Recipient over 25,000 pop): Sioux City
(Award Recipient under 25,000 pop): Coon Rapids—Dark Sky Protection and Appreciation