Local Projects Energize the Community in Marion, Iowa

Courtesy of the City of Marion

When the city of Marion, Iowa, located just minutes from Cedar Rapids, decided to upgrade its outdated infrastructure to support the growing community, local leaders thoughtfully considered how to use the opportunity to improve quality of place while also enhancing resident quality of life. The result was the Uptown Artway and the North and Central Plazas – three public projects designed to activate the Uptown Marion District and spur private investment. 

The Uptown Artway arose out of a desire to reduce the impact local Main Street businesses would face during the reconstruction of streets and sidewalks. With several streets torn up, the city turned to the back alleys, transforming underused areas into a public art oasis of nine sculptures and murals. The family-and pedestrian-friendly space offers alternative business entrances, a cafe-style seating area and a stage for public events like summer concerts. 

Courtesy of the City of Marion

“With every community improvement project, we know we get one chance to do it right,” says Marion Mayor Nick AbouAssaly. “In Marion, we are known for engaging our partners and our residents to maximize opportunities and shape a truly standout community.” 

Adjoining the Uptown Artway and the surrounding streetscape project, the North Plaza became an intimate gathering space featuring beautiful landscaping, overhead lighting and fire tables. This concept was then extended south to create the Central Plaza at City Square Park, a community centerpiece activating the heart of the central business district year-round. 

“The new Central Plaza enhances the cool factor of Marion and makes Uptown a true destination and living room for the region,” AbouAssaly says. “It’s one more way we are delivering on our promise to create opportunity and be the best place in Iowa to raise a family and grow a business.” 

Courtesy of the City of Marion

The Central Plaza features a multipurpose space that will be used for ice skating in the winter months and community events in the summertime, along with public art, a water feature and an enclosed train depot pavilion with meeting space and public restrooms. New mixed-use buildings being constructed in the vicinity of the Central Plaza feature upper story housing options with dining and retail offerings on the main level. 

Uptown Marion is thriving with new life and activity thanks to the area’s historic charm and the city’s innovative focus on preservation and redevelopment. Today, the district is a vibrant hub for locals and visitors to gather and experience dining, arts, culture, entertainment and, most of all, community. 

To learn more or plan your trip, check out cityofmarion.org.