• Article Photo. Models of the musical figures that will be placed near the entrance to Celebration Park.
    Models of the musical figures that will be placed near the entrance to Celebration Park.
  • Article Photo. This model of the 12 by 12 foot Celebration Park sign was shown to the VPRD Board this morning.
    This model of the 12 by 12 foot Celebration Park sign was shown to the VPRD Board this morning.
  • Article Photo. An artist's depiction of the entrance to the Celebration Park.
    An artist's depiction of the entrance to the Celebration Park.
  • Article Photo. A drawing of the main sign...
    A drawing of the main sign...
  • Article Photo. A drawing of an overhead view of the new Celebration Park.
    A drawing of an overhead view of the new Celebration Park.

     Just west of Highway 150, when visitors enter Vinton from the north, soon they will see a park where once they saw houses damaged by the Flood of 2008.

    Planning for Celebration Park along the Cedar River, from First Avenue and extending west, continues. The Vinton Parks and Recreation Board saw models of the sign and metal figures that will welcome visitors to the new area. They also heard about recent commitments of funds to the park, including a pending donation from a trust fund. 

     Vinton Parks and Recreation Director Duane Randall told the board today that he hoped to have some trees planted in the area and other work under way by the fall of this year. Current plans call for a structure that will allow both musical performances and an place for observing the natural beauty of the riverfront. Trees, trails and other features are also part of the plan for the project, which will take place over the next few years. 

    The board members saw miniature versions of the "Celebration Park" welcome sign and the two musicians steel scupltures that will welcome visitors to the park, all made by Steve Henry, a local welder.