The Vision Iowa Board today awarded funds to help build new attractions in three Iowa cities. The largest award, $1 million, will help with several expansion projects at Des Moines’ Blank Park Zoo.

The improvements at the zoo include a filtration system for the seal and sea lion pool, a new camel exhibit near the zoo’s entrance and more space for new animals in an Africa exhibit. All of the improvements at Blank Park Zoo carry a total price tag of over $9.3 million.

The southwest Iowa town of Stanton will receive just under $514,000 in Vision Iowa funding toward the construction of a building that will serve as a public library, a community center, a wellness center and a storm shelter. “This is a fabulous project,” said Vision Iowa spokesperson Jessica O’Riley. “The residents of Stanton have really supported this. For a town of about 700, I believe they have raised 800-thousand dollars. So, there’s obviously broad community support.”

The third Vision Iowa award is directed toward a wellness facility in Indianola. The board granted just over $483,000 toward the $15 million project. The 55,000 square foot facility will include a gymnasium, a swimming pool and racquetball court.

Today’s meeting of the Vision Iowa Board took place at the Park Inn Hotel in Mason City.