Updates
Great Places Update
Summer 2009
Work continued on several Great Place-related projects during the summer. The loop trail (now called the Garst Farm Trail) a scenic four-mile extension connecting Coon Rapids to the northern part of Whiterock is complete. The trail runs up and down the hills and along the river on the historic Garst Farm site south of town. Obtain a current trail map from www.whiterockconservancy.org. By the way, the map shows the numerous fishing ponds that are open to the public.
Work on 5th Ave streetscaping has been underway since mid July. It is due to be completed before the end of August. The project includes landscaping on both sides of the street, extension of the loop trail north on 5th to the railroad crossing, installation of four lighted markers designed by Iowa Artist David Dhalquist, installation of curbs on both side of the road and installation of a storm water drainage system. This work is significantly improving the esthetics and appeal of our primary entrance. Landscaping pulls the entire project together and significantly increases the visual impact of the art.
The Whiterock Visitor’s Center, located about a mile east of town, is also nearing completion. This four-season facility with a great view of the Raccoon River valley will be a great Whiterock and community resource.
Our new local non-profit “Creating Great Places” (www.creatinggreatplacs.org) is continuing to focus on planning and obtaining funding for extending our trail system east to connect with the Raccoon River Valley Trail in Herndon. This multi-year project will provide trail access to Des Moines and east.
The “Hybrid Icon” sculptures located at our primary entrance reflect town’s important role in the birth and growth of the seed corn industry as well as the hybridization of international ideas about farming and world hunger resulting from Russian Premier Nikita Khrushchev’s visit to Coon Rapids in 1959.