Charles City named 'river town of the year'

Charles City was named “Iowa River Town of the Year” at a reception this morning at the Charles City Public Library on the banks of the Cedar.

The award, presented annually by Iowa Rivers Revival, a river advocacy group, recognizes the community's efforts to enhance its connections to the Cedar River through conversion of a dangerous low-head dam into the state's first whitewater kayak course.

The project also included installation of the state's largest permeable paving system and improved public access on both sides of the river.

“Charles City responded to record floods in 1999 and 2008 by embracing the Cedar River with new ideas and bold projects” that both protect and celebrate the river, said Jerry Peckumn, Iowa Rivers Revival's board chairman.

Previous “River Towns of the Year” recognized by Iowa Rivers Revival are Webster City, Elkader, Coon Rapids, and Cedar Falls.

In response to the project, local businesses have expanded inventories and services, including lodging packages, sales and rental of equipment and shuttle services, according to Charles City officials.

State funding included Department of Natural Resources grants for dam mitigation, channel improvements and the boat ramp and fishing area below the whitewater course. The Department of Cultural Affairs' “Iowa Great Places” program supported the river walk area park and bank improvements.

“The state contribution to the Charles City project -- about $1.3 million -- is an excellent example of public money spent for public projects that will be used by the public,” Peckumn said.