Gov. Kim Reynolds and the Iowa Economic Development Authority have announced $40,000 in grants to support development projects in rural Iowa, including Clarion.
Clarion is one of four communities awarded $10,000 through the Rural Building Ownership and Organization by Strengthening Teams, or BOOST, program. The initiative connects local leaders with experts to develop and implement growth strategies.
In Clarion, the funding will support efforts to improve pedestrian and bicycle connections between downtown, the local high school and Lake Cornelia, a regional tourism destination. The project builds on a 2018 countywide trails plan aimed at strengthening links between communities and attractions.
Clear Lake, Redfield and Stanton also received $10,000 grants for projects focused on housing, community development and tourism.
The Empower Rural Iowa grants are funded through the Iowa Legislature and administered by the IEDA’s Center for Rural Revitalization. Communities must provide matching funds and meet criteria including economic need, partnerships and project readiness.
Applications for the next round of funding open July 1.
