Work Continues Toward Creation of Downtown Newton spray Park & Gathering Space

Another design agreement has been approved for turning the vacant downton lot directly west of Bank Iowa in downtown Newton into what City officials are calling a Spray Park and Gathering Space. Newton’s Community Services Director, Brain Laube, says the tasks included in a 49-thousand dollar Preliminary Design Services Agreement with Bolton & Menk of Des Moines back in August are nearly finished. This new 36-thousand dollar contract with Bolton & Menk is for completing the final plans and bid documents. It’s hoped a construction contract can be awarded before the end of the year. The Committee working on fundraising for the park submitted a Concept Plan to City Staff. Back in April 2021, the Newton City Council agreed to reserve the City owned lot for a possible park. Then about a year ago…the Council voted to provide 225-thousand dollars to the project, and take the lead in getting the park completed. Laube explains the vision for the park at 224 West 3rd Street North.

The City will name the park and oversee its construction.