In a recent joint city-county meeting, officials discussed significant enhancements to a downtown project, particularly focusing on the area north of the courthouse. The meeting, which followed a previous discussion in March, highlighted plans to improve street lighting and overall infrastructure as part of an amendment to the design contract with Boltman Mink Services.

The project encompasses five blocks along Center Street, with construction set to include the transition of bike lanes to Second Street, allowing for angle parking on both sides of the road between Church and Main Streets. This change aims to increase parking availability and improve accessibility in the downtown area.

A key feature of the project is the development of an event plaza space in front of the courthouse, which aims to revitalize a historically significant gathering area. The design will incorporate elements from the courthouse's architecture and pay tribute to the former Marshalltown arch, fostering a blend of historical and contemporary cultural elements. The plaza is intended to accommodate various events, enhancing community engagement and vibrancy in the downtown area.

The proposed amendment to the engineering contract totals $98,000, which includes $30,000 for enhanced street lighting and $68,000 for expanded public outreach and input regarding the event space. Notably, the county has agreed to reimburse half of the public outreach costs, reflecting a collaborative effort between city and county officials.

Concerns were raised during the meeting regarding parking logistics, particularly for delivery trucks in the busy downtown area. City officials assured that designated loading zones would be established to facilitate access for larger vehicles.

As the project progresses, city leaders emphasized the importance of balancing historical preservation with modern needs, aiming to create a welcoming and functional downtown space for residents and visitors alike. The council is now considering the proposed amendments and the next steps for this transformative project.