Operators of the Sleepy Hollow Sports Park in Des Moines are getting a large “Destination Iowa” grant from the state to expand to year-round operations. Iowa Economic Development Authority spokesperson Kannan Kapleman says the plan includes expanded skiing, snowboarding, and tubing opportunities.
“The project also includes an 18,000 square foot lodge with a public brew pub, equipment rentals, and gathering space along with expanded camping, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities,” she says. Kappleman says the project was awarded $4.25 million. “The park is expected to attract up to 200,000 visitors annually and generate an estimated $4.1 million in direct visitor spending in the Des Moines area,” Kappleman says. The total project cost is 17 million dollars.
The IEDA also award a Community Attractions and Tourism (CAT) grant to Jewel. “The city of Jewel was awarded $675,000 to construct a 3,000 square foot pool featuring a zero depth entry, water features, three 20-yard swimming lanes, and a one meter diving tower,” she says. The total project cost is $2.5 million.
The Lee County Conservation Board was awarded a $78,000 dollar CAT grant. “To replace the aging beach house at Paul Miller Park in West Point. Paul Miller Park attracts more than 6.000 beach visitors and 2,500 camping nights annually,” she says.
Kappleman says they have had visitors from 30 states over the past five years and their campground revenue has increased nearly 200% since 2014. The total project cost is slightly over $393,000.