OUR VISION
With Ottumwa's slogan "City of Bridges" and "River of Opportunity" our inspiration, we developed our vision along the Des Moines River between Turkey Island and Gray Eagle wild life reserve. We plan to bridge the river, unifying Ottumwa by creating an identifiable center supporting five basic elements; recreation, natural resources, education, retail, and arts and entertainment.

Provisions for the success of our vision will include at least one paid position to oversee all improvements, as well as local volunteers committing to adoption programs, maintaining specifically defined areas. These programs will ensure long term upkeep as well as educating future generations, establishing a core value of community pride. Financial support will stream from grant programs, civic groups, community foundations, public support and committee fund raising.

RECREATION
Currently a walk along the Des Moines River is more an effort then a joy. We visualize a new promenade from the hydro dam, running under the Jefferson Street Viaduct to the train bridge. The year 2000's dramatic lighting celebration established the viaduct as an Ottumwa icon. Redecking the Market Street Bridge with wider side walks, special lighting, and over looks will better accommodate foot traffic and bicycles. The Market Street Bridge has the strongest pedestrian connection to downtown and provides the most direct link to the beach and Bridge View Center.

Our great place will include looping trail systems. Creating a trail head with a map of recreational information and parking at the east end of the promenade. This will include decking the abandoned railroad as a pedestrian crossing and overlook. Visitors will be lead along the trail to Madison Ave following the Wabash railroad line, then connected to the levee and returned to the trail head. Collecting people and bringing them to the heart of the retail district.

NATURAL RESOURCES
An additional loop, from the trail head down river will link the Gray Eagle wild life reserve.

This unique area is in close proximity to heavy traffic and industrial development but offers a relaxing retreat from the nearby hustle of city life.

During spring and fall migrations, a high concentration of diverse water fowl, shorebird and migratory songbirds can be found there. The large deposit of sand and gravel provide a unique opportunity to observe wildlife species along the Des Moines River.

Trail development, such as board walks and viewing decks or blinds would be included to assist in public access and enhance the experience via introducing users to the wetland ecosystem.

Up river from the trail head Turkey Island represents a significant hidden gem. Presently there is little public use of the near 50 acre island. Incorporating it into our vision requires access from both sides of the island. By making the necessary improvements to the bridge on the north, and building a new river crossing to connect with the established south levee trail. In this way turkey island will offer a wide variety of habitats to be explored and enjoyed. The river system wetlands are literally teaming with life, and forested with upland tree species including lowland maple and cottonwood. Some of which serve as critical roosting sites for wintering bald eagles.

EDUCATION
From Turkey Island along the promenade to Gray Eagle reserve; visitors will be able to experience lifelong learning opportunities in history, arts, science, and nature. Historic markers will be placed throughout out great place telling the multiple stories of the Des Moines River, Railroads, and early Ottumwa. A welcome center will be conveniently located across from bridge view, a major focal point, with the surrounding area used for events, festivals, and performances.

Outdoor classrooms are planned at the Gray Eagle wildlife reserve and turkey Island. The current structure at Gray Eagle will be renovated as a picnic shelter and classroom. As Turkey Island becomes accessible a similar structure is planned there as well.

RETAIL
Ottumwa incorporates both the traditional downtown on the north bank and the Church Street business corridor on the south. We plan to link our unique districts with diversity and personality, using graphic themes, directional information, and entrance features signifying passage from one segment of downtown to another.

The Burlington Northern main line is a source of movement highly associated with the growth and development of Ottumwa. A daily arrival of Amtrak's Zephyr creates a special event in the downtown district. The dividing influence of the railroad will be minimized through the development of a landscaped greenway following the rail corridor.

We envision a river drive running parallel to the greenway from Kitterman Street on the west to the college street trail head. This well landscaped drive will have key development sites for mixed uses including housing, specialty shops, and a home for Ottumwa's Farmers Market.

The combined benefits of the Bridge View Center, The Beach Ottumwa, and recreational developments will generate an increase in the property tax revenue through investments they bring to our community like hotels and retail establishments. Open store fronts will fill as activities in our city center increase. The choice of college street for our trail head is a strategic in that it will revitalize the east entrance to our retail district.

Defining our great place compliments Ottumwa's current effort to be designated an Iowa Maine Street community. Our hope is to enjoy the full benefits of being associated with such a recognized as it fits the puzzle our vision aims to complete.

Arts & Entertainment
We have a community steeped in culture, historic preservation, recreation, and entertainment. Fulfillment of our vision will entice guests not only to visit Ottumwa but consider it an ideal home to work, live, and play.

With the completion of our Vision Iowa Project Bridge View Center, visitors and residents will enjoy the privileges of a state of the art theatre where traveling theatre groups as well as our own children's groups, community players, and many others will perform. The multi-purpose exhibition hall will feature events such as concerts, indoor soccer, craft shows, art exhibits, and numerous public and private celebrations. Continued growth of our community events like live after five, hot air balloon races, and lunch in the park, as well as oktoberfest will develop a sense of pride carried on through generations. The realization of Ottumwa's designation as an Iowa Great Place will give visitors and tourists yet another reason to arrive, and stay.

The linking of Turkey Island to Gray Eagle Reserve will provide an inviting venue for art exhibits, musicians, and education, recreation, retail and community gatherings, inspiring creative minds throughout our community. Who knows what new celebrations, festivals, or great works of art will be born in Ottumwa's Great Place.