ICON’s Regional Network Continues to Grow

The ICON Water Trails Regional Network continues to expand, creating new opportunities for communities across central Iowa to connect with their rivers and creeks. As a key part of the ICON initiative, the regional network extends beyond downtown to bring access, recreation, and placemaking to communities throughout the region.

Following the addition of two regional sites in 2025, ICON is building on that momentum with three more sites coming online this year. Each new location strengthens the network, increases access to the water, and moves us closer to a more connected and vibrant system of recreation across central Iowa.

 

Merle Hay Access

The Merle Hay Access in the City of Johnston is an upcoming addition to the ICON Regional Network. Located near the Merle Hay Bridge and I-80/35, this will be Johnston’s third site in the network, expanding access to Beaver Creek.

This new access point will provide residents and visitors with numerous opportunities to enter or exit the water. In addition to creek access, the design includes restrooms, lighting, streambank improvements, parking, stormwater infrastructure, native plantings, trailhead signage, connections to the adjacent land-based trail, and other site amenities.

The site will serve as a convenient put-in location to venture down Beaver Creek, with two opportunities to take out at other ICON sites along the water trail.

 

Clive Greenbelt Access

Another access point soon to be activated is the City of Clive’s Greenbelt Access. The overall Clive Greenbelt Landing Project will enhance nearly 15 acres of parkland adjacent to the Clive Aquatic Center.

As part of this larger effort, ICON Water Trails is supporting the addition of an access point on Walnut Creek. The overall project includes renovations to the Community Building, establishment of wetlands and bio cells, a boardwalk through these spaces, riverbank stabilization, a kayak launch, an event lawn and stage, and a new playground.

Together, these improvements will create a dynamic destination that blends recreation, ecology, and community gathering.

 

Colby Park Access

The City of Windsor Heights broke ground on the newest project in the regional network this past month. This effort is part of a larger, multi-phase improvement plan for Colby Park, located along Walnut Creek, and focuses on a currently underutilized area of the park.

Located west of Colby Park’s amphitheater, the project will include the addition of an accessible walkway at a designated and secure access point to Walnut Creek. By formalizing this entry location, the project will discourage visitors from attempting to reach the creek at other, potentially hazardous areas, significantly enhancing overall park safety.

In addition to establishing this new access point, the ICON site will include the creation of a native riparian plant community, interpretive signage, respite areas, and limestone stairways.

 

Looking Ahead

These projects would not be possible without our partnership with MidAmerican Energy Company. The MidAmerican Energy Fund Regional Grant was created to support improvements to existing sites and the creation of new sites within ICON’s Regional Network, and it has done just that since its inception. These three projects are just a few of the many that have benefited from this investment.

Once complete, these access points will bring the ICON Regional Network to 20 sites. As the network grows, ICON remains committed to not just building new sites but also sustaining them for the long term. Through our On-Water Maintenance and Safety Program, we continue to invest in routine upkeep, debris removal, and safety improvements to ensure each site remains accessible, welcoming, and safe for recreators. ICON’s Regional Network continues to create new opportunities for those who live, work, play, and visit our region.