(Des Moines, IA) -- The amount of money raised for a local water recreation network has surpassed $100 (M) million. ICON [[ EYE-con ]] Water Trails says the Hubbell [[ HUB-bell ]] Realty Company is donating $780,000. The Hubbell Trailhead, at the Fleur Dam, will be the second whitewater attraction for the downtown Des Moines development. The site, along with the Principal Point location at the Scott Avenue Dam are expected to open in 2027. A third point along the Raccoon River Run is underway with a formal ribbon cutting is expected in the spring.
The Fleur Dam access point will include a whitewater feature, kayak launch and boat ramp, along with a recreation channel, among other amenities.
“We are so honored by and appreciative of Hubbell’s continued leadership and vision,” Stephanie Oppel, ICON Water Trails Executive Director, said. “Years ago, Hubbell pledged ICON’s very first milliondollar gift, and it’s emblematic of Hubbell’s generosity that as we surpass the $100 million mile-marker, it’s through the commitment of this tremendous partner.” "The Hubbell Trailhead is a pivotal connection point from urban to nature, downtown Des Moines to Gray's Lake, Water Works Park and all our fantastic natural amenities. This is the place where bike trails intersect with water trails, beaches, splash pads, future sports fields, new housing and our capitol city. Very few places in the nation can tout what we can here in Iowa. Hubbell is very honored to play a role in this monumental project," said Rick Tollakson, President & CEO of Hubbell Realty Company.
Construction at ICON’s Harriet Street site and Principal Point at the Scott Avenue Dam continue on schedule. ICON Water Trails will connect 50+ access points across 150 miles of rivers and creeks in Central Iowa. Th