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Our program this past Tuesday was another in a series of outstanding presentations. Thank you David Beery.
Our Johnston Mayor, Paula Dierenfeld's presentation reminded us why Johnston is such a special place to live and work. The following is an outline of the Mayor's remarks. If you would like more details, Paula provided me a copy of her presentation notes. Call or text me for details.
Population growth is one measure of the attractiveness of our city. Since 2000, population expanded from 8,500 to nearly 22,000 or about 160%.
The city has expanded and maintains our recreational trail system to over 36 miles. The park system now boasts of converting the former city sewage lagoon to a 50 acre Terra Park which includes a stocked eight and a half acre lake with a beautiful handicap accessible fishing pier, an Amphitheater, a fine picnic pavilion and a one of a kind children's' play area. Terra Park is uniquely surrounded by another 150 acres of natural park land known as Beaver Creek Natural Resource Area.
Paula introduced a plan to develop a new 6 mile recreational water trail that uses a stretch of Beaver Creek that runs through Johnston. This idea may become the most "paddler friendly waterway" in central Iowa. The city is negotiating for land to create a kayak/canoe launch with parking facilities at both ends of the water trail.
Too extensive to cover here were many infrastructure projects that are currently underway or are on the planning table. One of the many projects discussed now in concept design stage includes a new city hall, indoor and outdoor community and social gathering spaces, restaurants and rooftop bars, commercial and office space and community gardens. The idea fits well into a "walkable community with connecting trails and outside seating and facilities".
It was evident that the vision Paula has for Johnston is much broader than recreation and community development. In the eleven years plus that Paula has served as our mayor there are three key priorities that have been on her plate. Paula summarized her priorities as achieving "a city where families want to live and are safe, where businesses want to locate and can thrive, and where the quality of life is unsurpassed.
Jim H. Miles
515-975-4262