By Sam Parsons

The Southeast Iowa Sports Commission announced that they have been awarded a grant in the amount of $2.5 million from Iowa Economic Development’s Destination Iowa funding through the American Rescue Plan.

This large investment comes to Ottumwa for the development of the Ottumwa SportsPlex Development Project, and it covers approximately 23% of the estimated $10.7 million price tag.

The SportsPlex, in its proposed form, would include three full size basketball courts, four volleyball courts, 9v9 turf soccer field, a softball and baseball infield, two batting cages, a turf football field, concessions, offices, and the ability to host birthdays,  conferences, and events. More information on the plans can be found at https://www.ottumwasportsplex.com/plans 

Destination Iowa is a $100 million investment to bolster the quality of life in Iowa’s communities and attract visitors and new residents to the state. The new effort will provide grants to help communities move forward on transformational, shovel-ready attractions. Cities, counties, nonprofits and other organizations can apply for Destination Iowa grants from four separate funds: Economically Significant Development, Outdoor Recreation, Tourism Attraction and Creative Placemaking. More information on Destination Iowa can be found here.