News : Plans for a "pocket park" in downtown Vinton

An artists rendition of the proposed Pocket Park in downtown Vinton

The Vinton City Council heard a presentation from a subcommittee of Vinton Unlimited last Thursday night. The group proposed plans to build a "pocket park" in the area where Clingman Pharmacy used to stand at 106 E 4th Street  The four women, Marcy Horst, Emily Henkle, Karilea Reis and Melody Snow, shared a recommendation from the Iowa Economical Development Authority.

The group asked for permission to use the property for the City of Lights Park. There was also discussion about how the City could support this project with providing a bathroom, and garbage collection, insurance coverage 

In the pocket park, there would be space for one food truck to park in the south end of the lot next to the alleyway giving the area food trucks to alternate and be highlighted at the park. The group hopes that this area would create a central aesthetic focal point and a good first impression of the town. The suggestions for the space is to create a low-maintenance area that could be a great lunch spot for downtown businesses. The design would also provide a venue for downtown events offering seating

Horst explained that there has been a lot of interest in donating time and labor for the project. Alan Merchant has volunteered to create the planters, and Horst has contact the Electric Utilities to consider donating lights to the park. 

The group is also considering seal coating the area to eliminate needing to mow. Ideas the group has is to sponsor benches, gardens, shelter, etc. with name plates and other fundraising ideas as well as grants and requesting donations.

The group hopes to develop the park beginning in late 2024 through the spring of 2025.

The council gave its approval for the use of the lot. The total known cost for the project is around $62,000 so fundraising would be in full swing. 

Perhaps some of my readers would like to help with the project and select something from the list below. If so, contact Melody Snow at Vinton Unlimited, Melody@VintonIA.org or call 319-472-3955