Rain or shine, mud or snow, dignitaries will gather at Iowa’s largest lake this morning (Thursday) to plunge shovels into the ground and turn over symbolic dirt on a new project. Steve Edwards is executive director of the Marion County Conservation Board. They’re breaking ground on a 285-foot long pedestrian trail bridge that’ll be built over an inlet on the north shore of Lake Red Rock, part of a five-mile trail expansion which will eventually connect to the metro Des Moines trail. Edwards says bridge and trail are part of the 28-million dollar Cordova Center on the Rock project, which is multi-faceted. Other components include: a 30-thousand square foot learning center, a performing arts amphitheater, more modern rental cabins, outdoor environmental displays and improved picnic and day use areas. Edwards says the project will add to the park’s already-large economic impact on the region. He says they’re working to transform Cordova Park into a “destination” park and a gateway to the Lake Red Rock area. Today’s groundbreaking is slated for 10 A.M. at the Cordova Park boat ramp.
