An Evansdale project to improve recreation access to the Cedar River has been awarded a state grant to help pay for the project.

Mayor Troy Beatty announced in a press release Wednesday that the city is getting a $75,000 grant from Resource Enhancement and Protection. Commonly referred to as REAP, the program invests in projects that enhance and protect Iowa's natural and cultural resources.

Evansdale city officials plan to use the grant money on the River Road Water Trail Access, a proposed project that will allow shallow boats, kayaks, and canoes access to the Cedar River. A new boat ramp, driveway, parking area, walking path, bike rack for pedal-paddle trips, pollinator plantings and a vegetated filter strip are all part of the project.

"This is a great step in providing more access to the surrounding area for recreation and emergency access as need," Beatty said in the press release. "The City of Evansdale is grateful to be selected out of a competitive list of projects."

The River Road project is expected to be completed by the Fall of 2021. Next year, the Cedar River is scheduled to become a state-designated water trail.

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Evansdale Awarded State Grant

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