The Washington County Riverboat Foundation has awarded a $500,000 grant to the Building North Liberty’s Next Stage capital campaign, according to a news release from the City of North Liberty.
The award, through the City of North Liberty’s philanthropic partners for the campaign at the Community Foundation of Johnson County, will help the city’s decade-long plan to transform Centennial Park. Phase one of the four-phase project is on track to break ground in summer 2024.
“This shared enthusiasm and gift are important to building this community amenity and venue here in the heart of eastern Iowa,” said Mayor Chris Hoffman in the release. “We’re grateful to the foundation’s board of directors for recognizing the value of this project not just to North Liberty but to the entire region.”
The development, with an estimated $11.6 million of economic activity expected each year, includes the Centennial Center and connected amphitheater, which will connect residents to one another and the arts. The facility will welcome public events like craft fairs and author visits as well as private events such as business functions and weddings. Nonprofit organizations can benefit from a new event space with discounted or waived event fees to host community meals, annual fundraisers and volunteer appreciation events.
Outside at the amphitheater, ticketed and free programs will be showcased seasonally on the stage including performances by touring artists, comedians, symphony orchestras, local dance studios and school district choir and band ensembles.
Restrooms, an expansive plaza and necessary utilities are also included in phase one. Phase two, which includes a premier splash pad, wheelchair-accessible playground units and additional restrooms is expected by 2026. Phases three and four, which bring an open-air pavilion and honor garden to the park, will be completed as soon as funding allows.
In recognition of the Washington County Riverboat Foundation’s grant, the plaza adjacent to the center, with picnic tables, landscaping and seating, will be named the Washington County Riverboat Foundation Plaza.
The foundation’s grant joins other pledges from local organizations and individuals, which totals over $1.1 million. The total project cost is estimated at $16.4 million, with the first phase being the largest at $8.8 million. The city has committed $6.5 million toward the improvements.
To learn more about the project and make a donation, visit northlibertyiowa.org/give. Naming opportunities for areas throughout the park are also available. Questions can be directed to nextstage@northlibertyiowa.org.
