In the near future, an expansive nearly 15-acre recreational and festival enclave is set to grace Clive, situated on the eastern side of Northwest 114th Street, nestled between Walnut Creek and the Clive Aquatic Center.
On the 1st of February, the Clive City Council granted unanimous approval for the layout of Greenbelt Landing. This upcoming development encompasses enhancements to the existing special events structure, an elongated path for pedestrians and cyclists, a fresh open-air stage, a marshy promenade, a fishing dock, a play area, and a shaded zone adjacent to a potential food truck parking space.
Revitalizations for the special events edifice at 1801 NW 114th St. include the addition of an alfresco patio complete with a hearth.
City documents reveal that the $10.6 million Greenbelt Landing initiative is predominantly funded by $6.6 million from municipal coffers. The residual $4 million will be sourced from grants and contributions, notably including $800,000 from Variety – The Children’s Charity, and $500,000 each from the Iowa Finance Authority, Environmental Protection Agency water quality allocation, and Polk County funds derived from the American Rescue Plan Act.
During the City Council briefing, Richard Brown, Clive’s director of leisure services, disclosed that approximately $10 million of the project’s financial allocation had been secured.
As per city records, groundwork for construction could commence in June of the current year, with completion earmarked for July 2025. Brown mentioned the possibility of a ceremonial groundbreaking in May or June.
Expressing his aspirations, Brown outlined the intention to unveil Greenbelt Landing in time for the Clive Festival in 2025, offering a novel festival expanse capable of hosting a crowd ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 attendees. The annual Clive Festival, a local jubilation featuring live musical performances, culinary delights from mobile vendors, games, and diverse entertainment, will find a new home at this location.
The project’s architectural design also incorporates elements aimed at enhancing water quality, including wetlands, stormwater detention ponds, and reinforcement of stream banks. A universally accessible boardwalk and fishing dock will provide entry to the pond, along with new ADA-compliant access to the nearby Walnut Creek.
Richard Brown highlighted the inclusion of a stormwater treatment wetland populated with indigenous plant species, destined to elevate the water quality cascading from the site.
