Park Shelter House Project Breaks Ground

On Thursday, March 2 the Rock Valley City Council reviewed quotes for a new Shelter House to be constructed in City Park. The City Council gave approval for the project to proceed at the City Council Meeting held on Thursday, March 16. City Staff will work as General Contractor, with J&J Construction from Hull as builder, alongside A&K Electric, Rock Valley Plumbing & Heating, Groeneweg Construction, and construction materials supplied by Farmers Lumber Company.

“The City Council formed the Beautification Committee during the Strategic Planning Initiative to address the needs of our parks, downtown and highway corridors. During the strategic plan, we hosted community input surveys and the committee worked through the data. It was determined the City Park as a priority area that needed renovations to improve our communities marketing and attraction efforts to our visitors, as well the fact it plays a very important role as an amenity for our community members.” Kevin Van Otterloo, Mayor.

The City Park master renovation plan includes the new four-season shelter house, updating existing park equipment, adding new inclusive equipment and fall-safe materials. There will also be a community event stage, one large and additional smaller family picnic shelters, and updating the current bath house, landscaping, and lighting. The master renovation plan also includes a wide walking boulevard and trails throughout the park to allow for better access for all parks visitors. The new walkability and connected paths will make events and other activities easier for all visitors to explore the entire park, as well as the ability to host more community events such as the Farmer’s Market, Religious Services, Community Events, Family Reunions, Weddings.

The new shelter house will be located on the West side of City Park, which is located along Highway 18.

A golden shovel ceremony to kick off the Shelter House project was held on April 27. Representatives from the City Council, Beautification Committee, Strategic Planning Committee, Rock Valley Economic Development Corp., Rock Valley Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club, contractors on the project, as well as members of the business community and donors were present. The shelter house construction project has already begun with completion set for the Fall of 2023. Other future renovations will begin dependent on fundraising efforts which are being launched following the approval of the shelter house.

The Rock Valley Kiwanis Club kicked off the fundraising efforts with a donation of $10,000 and pledged support in their 2023 fundraising efforts of can refunds and annual Kiwanis Duck Race. The Beautification Committee will be contacting potential donors in the coming months to partner to complete the project. Donors are directed to make payment or pledges to the Friends of Rock Valley Park Renovation Project, PO Box 92, Rock Valley, IA 51247. If you would like to have a personal visit with one of the committee members, please call 712.476.5707 to make an appointment.