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America's R IDNR Boating FndsMEMORANDUM September 26, 2001 TO: FROM: SUBJECT: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager Grant Application for Federal Boating Infrastructure Funds Assistant City Manager Cindy Steinhauser is recommending approval of the submission of the Boating Infrastructure grant application to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources in the amount of $1,641,021 for funding the dredging and construction of transient boat docks in the Ice Harbor and construction of a riverfront boat pier as part of the America's River project. I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council approval. Michael C. Van Milligen MCVM/jh Attachment cc: Barry Lindahl, Corporation Counsel Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA MEMORANDUM September 26, 2.001 TO: FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager Cynthia Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager SUBJECT: Grant Application for Federal Boating Infrastructure Funds INTRODUCTION This memo transmits for City Council approval the submission of a grant application to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) for Federal Boating Infrastructure Funds for dredging and construction of transient boat docks in the Ice Harbor and construction of a riverfront boat pier as part of the America's River project. An application, budget, map and resolution are attached for City Council consideration. DISCUSSION City staff has drafted a Boating Infrastructure grant application from IDNR. This is a new program that we learned of in mid-September. The submittal deadline for this grant was September 25, 2001. Staff has submitted an application, pending City Council authorization. If the City Council does not authorize submittal of the application, staff will withdraw the request. The grant monies will be used for dredging and construction of transient boat docks in the Ice Harbor, and for construction of a boat pier along the Mississippi River. The harborside boat docks will be located at the west end of the Ice Harbor, between the U.S. Coast station and the future Discovery Wetland to be built by the Historical Society. The riverside boat pier will parallel the Riverwalk for 300 feet along the Mississippi adjacent to the future Education and Conference Center. Both the harborside boat docks and the riverside boat pier will serve transient boats of 26 feet or more in length that are considered as "nontrailerable". Boating Infrastructure Grant Application Page 2 BUDGET IMPACT Staff have reviewed the grant application with Administrative Services Manager Pauline Joyce and Historical Society Executive Director Jerry Enzler. The Boating Infrastructure grant application will be most competitive with at least a 50% match of non-federal funds. The City's capital budget for the $188 million America's River project will be used as the source of local matching funds. The total project cost for this grant application is $10,121,124. The grant amount requested is $1,641,021. The enclosed budget lists the project components. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the City Council approve the attached resolution authorizing submission of the Boating Infrastructure grant application to the IDNR in the amount of $1,641,021 for funding the dredging and construction of transient boat docks in the Ice Harbor and construction of a riverfront boat pier as part of the America's River project. CS/lc Attachments CC: Pauline Joyce, Administrative Services Manager, w/attachments Jerry Enzler, Historical Society Executive Director, w/attachments Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager, w/attachments Prepared by: Laura Carstens, City Planner Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St Telephone: 589-4210 RESOLUTION NO.430-01 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FOR FEDERAL BOATING INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDS FOR THE AMERICA'S RIVER PROJECT Whereas, the Iowa Department of Natural Resoumes (IDNR) has Federal Boating Infrastructure funds available to develop transient boat docks for nontrailerable vessels; and Whereas, the City of Dubuque has adopted a Comprehensive Plan and a Riverfront Plan that include goals for development of transient boat docks; and Whereas, the City of Dubuque has approved the America's River project that includes the development of transient boat docks in the Ice Harbor and on the Mississippi River. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA: Section 1. That the Assistant City Manager is hereby authorized to submit an application for Federal Boating Infrastructure funds to the IDNR for development of transient boat docks in the Ice Harbor and on the Mississippi River. Section 2. That the City of Dubuque agrees to maintain the transient boat docks used in accordance with the Federal Boating Infrastructure Grant Program. Passed, approved and adopted this 1st day of October ,2001. Attest: Jeanne F. Schneider, City Clerk Terrance M. Duggan, Mayor APPLICATION FOR TIER 2 OF BOATING INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT PROGRAM CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA 50 WEST 13TM STREET DUBUQUE, IOWA 52001 563-589-4110 563-589-4149 FAX Email: citym.qr~cityofdu buque.orq And MISSISSIPPI RIVER MUSEUM DUBUQUE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY 3rd STREET - ICE HARBOR DUBUQUE, IOWA 52001 563-557-9545 563-583-1241 FAX Email: rivermuse~,mwci.net This Tier 2 BIGP Grant funding request is for the implementation of portions of the America's River Port of Dubuque project located on the Mississippi River at Dubuque, Iowa. AMERICA'S RIVER PROJECT AT THE PORT OF DUBUQUE Introduction. Powerful and beautiful, the Mississippi River is the third largest river in the world. It has played and will continue to play an essential role in our nation's past, present, and future. Like the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone, the Mississippi is a national treasure. Dubuque lies on the Mississippi River at the juncture of three states: Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois. As a regional center of commerce, employment, tourism, health care and education, Dubuque is important to the economy and quality of life in this tri-state area. To celebrate this remarkable resource we plan a comprehensive, multi-faceted project on the banks of the Mississippi River in Dubuque, Iowa: the America's River project. For those arriving by boat, the America's River project at the Port of Dubuque will offer both a Riverside Boat Pier and Harborside Boat Docks for nontrailerable vessels exceeding 26 feet in length. America's River The America's River project is a cooperative effort of the City of Dubuque, the Dubuque County Historical Society's Mississippi River Museum, the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commeme, Dubuque County and Platinum Hospitality Group. This $188 million public- pdvate partnership will create a national campus of educational, environmental, recreational and historical activities that focuses on the Mississippi River. This initial partnership has expanded to include federal, regional, state and local partners - both public and private, from the tri-state area, from the five states that touch the Mississippi River, and indeed from around the country (see Attachment A - America's River brochure). The America's River project encompasses the Fourth Street Peninsula, a 90-acre tract of the city's riverfrent that adjoins downtown Dubuque. In addition to the Mississippi River on the east, the Fourth Street Peninsula is bordered by Dove Harbor on the north and by the Ice Harbor on the south. Dove Harbor is a working harbor, replete with barges, cranes and conveyors for loading and unloading barges of grain, coal, fertilizer, salt and asphalt. The Ice Harbor is the focus of recreation, education and visitor access to the dver. The America's River project builds on the existing commercial and recreational investment along the Ice Harbor, which is central to much of Dubuque's long history. Beginning as a network of sloughs, the Ice Harbor's deeper, more open water became the boat landing with the main connection to the growing town. As the wetlands and sloughs were filled during the late 19th century and inland waters in the early 20th century, the Ice Harbor was created as a protective harbor for riverboats during the winter. The site became America's largest boat-building center, and today serves as a protected harbor for a vadety of uses: excursion cruises, riverboat gambling, barge repair, museum craft and U.S. Coast Guard. The Mississippi River Discovery Center and Aquarium, the Mississippi River National Education and Conference Center, the Riverfront Hotel and Indoor Waterpark, and the Mississippi Riverwalk and Amenities will anchor the 90-acre America's River campus as the place to learn about and experience the Mississippi River. This campus will be one of the only locations on the entire 2,400-mile stretch of the dver that captures the historical, environmental, educational and recreational majesty of the Mississippi River. Building on local and state investments in a riverboat museum, excursion cruises and the country's first riverboat gambling, the America's River project will strengthen the community's linkages to the Mississippi River by enhancing access to historical, environmental, educational, cultural, recreational, and scenic resources for all. River Discovery Center The Mississippi River Discovery Center and Aquadum will be a national museum of the Mississippi River tucked on the banks of the Ice Harbor. Through a 20-year partnership agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, it will be the Interpretive Center for the Upper Mississippi River National Fish and Wildlife Refuge. This state-of-the-art facility will feature the National Rivers Hall of Fame, as well as 30-foot wide aquariums with paddlefish, snapping turtles, otters, alligators and other wildlife of the Mississippi River's distinct habitats. The museum site will allow the visitor to become a participant in both the natural environment and the cultural landscape. To achieve this, the Museum will restore some of the wetlands and backwater sloughs that were once at the Ice Harbor. An outdoor Discovery Wetland will be carved out of the west end of the Ice Harbor, providing a venue for living history interpretations of Native Americans, eady explorers and wetland habitat. The Discovery Wetland will be encircled on the east by a floating promenade along the historic steamboat William M. Black, a heritage dock for historic boats, and finger piers for visiting boaters. Education and Conference Center The Mississippi River National Education and Conference Center will be a 114,500 square foot educational facility on the banks of the Mississippi. With classrooms, assembly spaces, exhibit facilities and distance learning capabilities, it will provide a technologically advanced forum for environmental education, corporate training, association conferences, and national and regional events. This facility will offer fiber optics and satellite links that will connect the center to the other America's River projects as well as corporate and public sites across the country. Hotel and Waterpark America's Riverwill include a 200-room Mississippi Riverfront Hotel and Indoor Waterpark, under construction by Platinum Hospitality Group. This destination hotel will have dramatic views of the river as well as a full-service restaurant and spacious meeting facilities connected with the Education and Conference Center. The hotel features Iowa's first major indoor waterpark, a 24,000 square foot all season destination with four-story tall water slides, body slides, flume rides and other dver-themed water attractions. Riverwalk and Amenities The Mississippi Riverwalk and its related amenities will give America's River a unique sense of place - the Port of Dubuque. The Riverwalk, a 16-foot wide promenade of decorative paving, will provide shaded overlooks, public art, historic lighting, landscaping, interpretive signs, and benches for the bicyclist and pedestrian to enjoy. The Riverwalk will include the following additional amenities: a 1,000-seat public amphitheater at the historic Star Brewery; a 5,000 square foot River's Edge Plaza, a riverfront gateway and landing berth for large excursion boats like the Delta Queen; and connections to the 40 mile Heritage Trail. The Riverwalk will connect the major destinations of America's River- the River Discovery Center, the Education and Conference Center, and the Riverfront Hotel and Indoor Waterpark - with each other and with tie-up facilities for transient boaters. Visiting boat docks for nontrailerable vessels exceeding 26 feet in length will be available at two Riverwalk locations on the America's River campus: The Riverside Boat Pier will parallel the Riverwalk for 300 feet along the Mississippi River adjacent to the Education and Conference Center. Visiting boaters will access the Riverwalk via a set of large cascading stairs at the pier's northern terminus and three smaller riverfront landings along the pier to the south. · The Harborside Boat Docks will follow the western shoreline of the Ice Harbor near the River Discovery Center's Discovery Wetland and heritage boat dock. Port of Dubuque - Infrastructure Needs Dubuque is a major point of Mississippi River access for the visitor markets of Chicago and Milwaukee. Already a popular tourist destination, Iowa's oldest settlement serves over a million visitors annually. The America's River project will enable the tri-state area at the Port of Dubuque to capitalize on the Mississippi River as a national tourist destination. Dubuque's location on the Mississippi River, and the America's River project, are a tremendous asset for providing recreational, scenic, cultural and historical experiences for transient boaters. A large volume of pleasure craft ply the river channel just outside the gate of Dubuque's historic Ice Harbor. Some of the current river traffic consists of local boaters and fisherman; however, many boats are from throughout the region and as far away as the Twin Cities and the Gulf Coast. These boaters have no options when seeking a dock site to access the Ice Harbor's current attractions: the Diamond Jo Casino, Spirit of Dubuque paddlewheel excursions, F.W. Woodward Riverboat Museum, and the National Historic Landmark Wm. M. Black historic steamboat. There is a lack of transient boating facilities in Dubuque's market area. For example, the Iowa Welcome Center, located near the Port of Dubuque, receives between 20 and 30 requests each month in the summer for transient boat docks. Many callers are surprised that there are not more visiting boat docks available in Dubuque. This demand will only grow with completion of the America's River project's amenities and attractions. A share of these new visitors will be transient boaters, coming to see future attractions at the Port of Dubuque: the Mississippi Riverwalk, the Mississippi River National Education and Conference Center, the Mississippi Riverfront Hotel and Indoor Waterpark, and the Mississippi River Discovery Center. America's Riverwill provide new access from the boat docks to downtown attractions and amenities via the City of Dubuque's public transit system incorporating vintage trolleys. Total visitation for America's River is expected to exceed an additional 500,000 visitors annually. An estimated 300,000 of these will come from over 50 miles away, from every state in the Union as well as over 50 foreign countries each year. This project is based on a careful study and analysis of the project by three different economic analyses: · The Mississippi River Discovery Center and Aquarium analysis conducted by the Office of Thomas Martin, Cambridge, Massachusetts · The Mississippi River National Education Conference Center analysis conducted by CSL consultants from Minneapolis, Minnesota · The Riverfront Hotel and Waterpark analysis conducted by Patek Hospitality Consultants, Inc. Lack of transient facilities Within 10 miles of the Port of Dubuque north and south on the river, there are only 64 slips that can handle nontrailerable transient boats of 26 feet or more in length. In the city of Dubuque, there are only 27 slips large enough for nontrailerable vessels of 26 feet or more in length. Across the channel in East Dubuque, Illinois, there are only 29 that can accommodate boats of 26 feet or longer. In Dubuque County, there are only 8 transient slips available for all visiting boats, including nontrailerable vessels. The combined total of these slips are far fewer than what is needed to meet current and future demand. As shown in the chart below, there are no slips available in Wisconsin within 10 miles of the Port of Dubuque. State Marina Miles on No. of Gas Rest Pumpout Accessible River Slips Dock Rooms Station To Disabled Iowa Dubuque Yacht Basin 1.6 miles 22 Yes Yes Yes Yes Dubuque Marina 2.7 miles 5 Yes Yes Yes Yes Massey Marina 5.8 miles 0 Yes No No No Arrowhead Marina 10.4 miles 8 Yes Yes Yes Yes Illinois Mid-Town Marina 1.1 miles 15 Yes Yes Yes Yes Bent Prop Marina 2.3 miles 2 No Yes No No Frentress Lake 3.8 miles 12 Yes Yes Yes Yes Closest Available Facilities - Dubuque/Dubuque County, Iowa Dubuque Yacht Basin, 1.6 miles up river, has 130 seasonally leased slips, and 22 transient slips that can accommodate boats of 26 feet or larger. Marina facilities include a gas dock, showers, rest rooms, a pump out station, boat sales/service, a convenience store, a badrestaurant and a laundry. These facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities, subject to river stage. Dubuque Marina, 2.7 miles upstream, offers 230 slips for seasonal lease, but only 5 transient slips for nontrailerable vessels. This marina also has a bar/restaurant, a gas dock, showers, a pump out station, a laundry and rest rooms. These facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities, subject to dver stage. In Dubuque County, 8 transient slips for nontrailerable vessels are available 10.4 miles north at Arrowhead Marina. This madna also has 130 slips for seasonal lease, a gas dock, rest rooms, boat sales/service and a pump out station. These facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities, subject to river stage. Downstream 5.8 miles at Massey Marina, there are no slips available for visiting boaters - regardless of the vessel size. The marina provides permanent docks for 125 boats. A gas dock and a bar/restaurant are provided at this marina; however, rest room facilities are primitive. These facilities are not accessible to persons with disabilities. Closest Available Facilities - East Dubuque, Illinois There are 15 transient slips at Mid-Town Marina, which is 1.1 miles across the dyer in East Dubuque, Illinois that can handle nontrailerable boats. In addition to 240 seasonally leased slips, Mid-Town Marina offers a gas dock, rest rooms, a pump out station and a badrestaurant. These facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities, subject to dver stage. Two slips for vessels of 26 feet or more are available to visiting boaters at Bent Prop Marina, 2.3 miles from the Port of Dubuque in East Dubuque. Bent Prop Marina has 60 seasonally leased slips as well as rest rooms. These facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities, subject to river stage. At Frentress Lake Marina, 3.8 miles east in East Dubuque, boaters can lease 300 seasonal slips and 12 slips for transient boats of 26 feet or longer. This marina also offers boat sales/service, bait, a gas dock, a pump out station, rest rooms, and a bar/restaurant. These facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities, subject to river stage. Boater Demand While the area market has 1,215 permanent slips for seasonal lease for 10 miles above and below Dubuque, the supply of only 64 slips for nontrailerable vessels is inadequate. Interviews with marina owners in the tri-state area have pointed out the need for a significant increase in the number of transient slips to serve boats of 26 feet or more in length. All the area marinas fill up quickly in the summertime, leaving visiting boaters with few, if any options. The America's River project will only serve to increase the current demand, putting additional pressure on these existing marinas. This demand has been confirmed by Marina operators in the tri-State area who concur with the tremendous need for transient boat docks for nontrailerable vessels. Providing transient boat docks at two locations - along the Mississippi River at the Education and Conference Center, and in the Ice Harbor near the River Discovery Center - will help meet this increased demand at what will become a national and international destination with completion of the America's River project. County Population Total Marina Potential Boats Boats Demand Dubuque, lA 89,143 6240 250 25 Clinton, lA 48,897 3,423 137 14 Jackson, lA 20,078 1,405 56 6 Jones, lA 20,075 1,405 56 6 Linn, lA 184,891 12,942 518 52 ScoE, IA 159,458 11,162 446 45 Henry, IL 51,159 3,581 143 14 Whiteside, IL 60,186 4,213 169 17 Rock Island, IL 148,723 10,4tl 416 42 Winnebago, IL 252,913 17,704 708 71 Jo Daviess, IL 22,289 1,560 62 6 Carroll, IL 16,674 1,167 47 5 Stephenson, IL 48,979 3,429 137 14 Grant, WI 49,497 3,465 139 14 Lafayette, WI 16,137 1,130 45 5 LaCrosse, WI 107,120 7,498 300 30 Vernon, WI 28,056 1,964 79 8 Crawford, WI 17,243 1,207 48 5 Total 1,341,518 93,906 3,756 376 * Per capita registration is estimated to be an average of 7% of county population. ** Marina boats are estimated to be 4% of total boat registration. *** Potential demand is based on an estimated 10% of the number of marina boats. Project Scope In contrast to the seasonal boater who leases a slip for the six-month boating season, the transient boater has distinct needs. The typical visiting boaters tour the Mississippi for days or weeks at a time, or on weekend~, stopping in ports to enjoy the unique communities and attractions along the river. Transient boaters are looking for tie-up facilities within easy proximity to recreational, historic, cultural, natural and scenic amenities as they travel the Mississippi. The America's River project at the Port of Dubuque will be the largest attraction along the entire Mississippi River, and the boat docks will offer transient boaters access to a variety of services and attractions. Harborside Boat Docks The Harborside Boat Docks will follow the western shoreline of the Ice Harbor near the River Discovery Center's Discovery Wetland and heritage boat dock (Attachment B). Transient boat docks in the Ice Harbor will provide a floating promenade between the U.S. Coast Guard station and the Mississippi River Discovery Center, an interactive and educational museum. Transient boaters will be able to join other visitors on a tour, if they choose. This museum complex will include: · outdoor wetland · restored railroad depot · wet lab and distance learning facilities · river aquariums and stream tables · living history exhibits · theater and National Rivers Hall of Fame · restored National Landmark steamboat · historic boats and boat building shop · harborand rivertours Transient boaters docking harborside will be able to access the America's River campus along a bike/pedestrian pathway at the west end of the Ice Harbor. This pathway will link with the riverfront trail system and the Mississippi Riverwalk, providing access to the America's River campus and downtown Dubuque. As a part of this trail system, visitor amenities will include lighting, benches, and trash receptacles, as well as directional and interpretive signage. Riverside Boat Pier The Riverside Boat Pier will parallel the Riverwalk for 300 feet along the Mississippi River adjacent to the Education and Conference Center. Visiting boaters will access the Riverwalk via a set of large cascading stairs at the pier's northern terminus, and three smaller riverfront landings along the pier to the south. The large cascading seating steps and smaller riverfront landings will offer sites for fishing and sightseeing, as well as boat landings (Attachment C). The Riverside Boat Pier will allow transient boaters to stroll along the banks of the mighty Mississippi. Visiting boaters will be able to take in the majestic scenery of the wooded limestone bluffs of Wisconsin, Illinois and Dubuque. The historic Victorian architecture of Dubuque, Iowa's oldest city, will be visible from the Riverwalk. Boat traffic, from historic steamboats to hard-working towboats pushing barges, will be enjoyed as well. Interpretive signs explaining the historic, cultural, economic and environmental resources, benches, shade structures and riverfront landings will line the Riverwalk. Transient boaters also can enjoy the other attractions at the Port of Dubuque. Visitors can take excursion cruises on the paddlewheel steamboat, Spirit of Dubuque. The Diamond Jo Casino offers riverboat gambling, a lounge, a restaurant, meeting rooms, rest rooms, pay telephones, and shopping. Dredging One-time hydraulic dredging of the inner harbor is necessary to meet needs for current harbor industry as well as for future transient boat dock users. Recent soundings from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and a local engineering firm indicate the need to dredge and haul from the site approximately 30,000 cubic yards of material from the harbor. When complete, this dredging will provide an elevation of 583 feet and a 9 foot depth during Iow water elevations (Attachment D). These depths are sufficient to provide a navigable harbor for the existing Diamond Jo Casino, Spirit of Dubuque excursion vessel and for future madne vessels exceeding 26 feet in length. Attachment E is a letter form Captain Kevin Stier of the Diamond Jo Casino indicating the need for one-time dredging. Downtown Linkages Visitors arriving by boat at the Harborside Boat Docks or Riverside Boat Pier do not need to confine their visiting experience to the America's River campus. Downtown Dubuque, with its unique distinctive blend of histodc storefronts and Victorian homes, is within walking and biking distance. The 3rd Street overpass provides a vehicular and pedestrian connection into Historic Old Main. One of downtown Dubuque's three districts listed on the National Register of Histodc Places, Old Main, is the site of the Iowa Welcome Center at 3rd and Main Streets. From this state Welcome Center, visiting boaters can make connections to other historic, natural and cultural attractions. In addition, Diamond Jo Casino's portside facility serves as a pick-up/drop-off point for hotel shuttles, trolley and tours, public transit, and horse-drawn carriage rides through Downtown Dubuque and to outlying historic sites. With this unique blend of recreational, cultural and historical experiences, transient boat docks at the Port of Dubuque will draw from a larger population than the current transient boat market. Efficiency of Investment The America's River project is a $188 million endeavor that builds on existing facilities and leveraged resources. America's Riverwill create an attractive venue for transient boat docks, making this location a highly cost efficient investment of Tier 2 boating infrastructure funds. Already plans are underway to increase the cultural, recreation, entertainment and educational experience for boaters. They include the Mississippi River Discovery Center Museum and Aquarium, the Diamond Jo Casino, Spirit of Dubuque dinner excursions, Ice Harbor Park, Riverwalk and River's Edge Plaza, Hotel and Indoor waterpark, restaurants, bars, Star Brewery amphitheater ail resting at the intersection of Heritage Trail, a 40-mile hike and bike system that winds through the City of Dubuque and Dubuque County. Additional facilities desired by transient boaters that currently exist at the Port of Dubuque, in addition to the above, include: rest rooms, pay telephones, and public spaces. With the completion of America's River, these visitor amenities will be dispersed throughout the campus and will be connected to the entire peninsula and downtown through the public transportation system. Lastly, the location of additional transient boat docks adjacent to the main channel and in the inner harbor is strategically located near existing facilities desired by transient boaters that are within 2 miles of the Port of Dubuque including: Dubuque Yacht Basin (1.6 miles upstream) · pumpout station · gas dock · laundry · boat sales/service Mid-Town Marina (1.1 miles across the river in East Dubuque) · pump out station · gas dock The need forthese facilities to be located adjacent to the America's River project has been confirmed by Marina operators in the tri-State area who concur with the need for transient boat docks for non-trailerable vessels. Economic Impact The America's River project will provide a huge benefit for the Iowa and Dubuque economies. This impact is quantified in the Economic and Fiscal Impact Study of the America's River Project, prepared by Quentin Davis, of QED Consulting, Lakeside Park, Kentucky. The study used the State of Iowa RIMS II Input-Output coefficients in making the projections of impact dudng the construction and operational pedods, including the estimate of tax impacts from all components. The study provides both direct and indirect impacts. In accordance with proposal guidelines, emphasis will be on the direct impacts without the use of multipliers. This study is included in the appendix and is summarized below. The America's Riverfiscal and economic impact study examines the impacts of the Education and Conference Center, Discovery Center, Riverwalk and Amenities, and Heritage Trail and the HotelNVaterpark. The summary of economic impacts shows that local spending during the construction phase will be $87.9 million. This will result in 804 construction jobs during the construction period. Counting the leveraged activity as well, there will be the creation of 995 direct jobs during the construction pedod. Additionally there will be 3,557 indirect jobs impacted. During this construction period there will be direct employee state income tax of $1.4 million plus another $428,000 in the direct impact of the leveraged portion of the project. State sales tax will be a total of $3.2 million, local option sales tax generated will be $374,000. During the operational phase, America's River will provide for 273 on site jobs and leveraged activity will provide another 129 on site jobs for a total of 402 on-site jobs. This will inject over $35 million into the local economy over a 5-year period. In addition there will be 624 indirect jobs created by America's River. Dudng the operational phase, America's River will generate $884,000 in direct state employee income tax annually, $508,000 in annual corporate income tax, $223,000 in annual state sales tax, $615,000 in hotel motel taxes each year, mad $521,000 in increased property tax annually. These are the direct impacts of the Vision Iowa and leveraged projects. These estimates are another way of stating the impact in Iowa and Dubuque: almost 1,000 direct construction jobs, 3,557 indirect job impacts, with Iowa taxes during construction estimated at $5 million and local taxes estimated at $524,000. These will be quality jobs that help boost the income and economy of Iowans. Project applicants have committed that the average annual salary for full time people will be well above the Dubuque County Average of $12.19. The current number of jobs in the tourism industry in Dubuque is 2,600 jobs, according to the Ranking of Travel Expenditures by County in Iowa. The Domestic Travel Impact ranking by counties shows Dubuque as one of the top 10 leading counties in Iowa with expenditures of $156 million annually. This includes a payroll of $34.50 million each year for 2,600 employees. State tax receipts total $9.97 million and local tax receipts total $2.42 million annually. Partners and Endorsements The America's River Project is a state, regional and national effort that has involved many partners and received numerous endorsements. As mentioned, the project involves five pdmary partners who represent the largest financial investors for capital and operation expenses related to this project. In addition, the project has approximately 19 national and multi-state partners, 3 special boating partners and 19 local partners to date. These partners include: · U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service · U.S. Army Corps of Engineers · Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota Departments of Natural Resources · National Maritime Alliance · Missouri Department of Conservation · Audubon Ark · Mimi on the Mississippi · Dubuque Yacht Club · Dubuque Community School District · Sac and Fox Tdbal Council A complete list of the America's River Project partners and their role is detailed on Attachment F. In addition the America's River Project has engage a national cabinet which has played a significant role in securing funds and in advising the project including: · Honorable Govemor Tom Vilsack (Iowa) · Honorable Governor Jesse Ventura (Minnesota) · Honorable Govenor Tommy Thompson (VVisconsin) · Honorable Governor George Ryan (Illinois); and · The late Govemor Mel Carnahan (Missouri). A complete list of the national cabinet, including a letter from the above mentioned Governors is detailed on Attachment F. BUDGET. Project 300' Pier wall - main channel City of Dubuque transient boat docks Harborwalk road and pier wall Riverfront landings MRDC transient boat docks Ice Harbor dredging MRDC wetland wall for boat docks Ice Harbor wall for boat docks Riverwalk Land acquisition Construction Sub-total NE fees Contingency Total Total Cost $ 534,375.00 $ 252,395.00 $ 277,ooo.oo $ 58,000.00 $ 176,676.00 $ 342,575.oo $ 1,790,000.00 $ 900,000.00 $ 887,400.00 $ 4,438,529.00 $ 9,656,950.00 $ 218,954.00 $ 245,220.00 $ 10,121,124.00 Federal Request $ 1,641,021.00 *C.M. = Construction Method (C=Bid Contract, DM = Donated Material) America's River Related Projects Conference and Education Center Mississippi River Discovery Center Mississippi River Hotel and Indoor Waterpark $ 40,807,150.00 $ 56,909,000.00 $ 43,000,000.00 Total $ t40,716,'150.00 0g/25/200[ 04:37 FAX H.U=ION ATTACHMENT D Attachment F PRIMARY PARTNERS These boat docks are an integral part of the America's River project, a $188 million riverfront redevelopment effort that has a broad partnership base locally, regionally, and nationally. The City of Dubuque is the applicant for this project, dedicating its resources for planning, engineering, facilitating, and funding of the project. Primary partners include The Mississippi River Museum is a primary partner in this project and is raising and investing $57 million in the Mississippi River Discovery Center, a national museum and aquarium which will be adjacent to the boat docks. The Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and its Dubuque Convention and Visitors Bureau is a primary partner, dedicating their resources for fund raising, public awareness and promotion. Dubuque County is a pdmary partner, committing over $1 million to the America's River project. Platinum Hospitality Group is a primary partner, investing $23 million in the Waterpark Hotel which will be immediately adjacent to these boat docks. NATIONAL AND MULTI-STATE PARTNERS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - The Mississippi River Museum has signed a 20-year partnership agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to interpret the Upper Mississippi River National Fish and Wildlife Refuge. Dubuque is centrally located in the refuge, which is the nation's longest and most visited refuge, with 3 million visitors a year. The 261-mile long refuge contains 194,000 acres in four states - Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois. The River Discovery Center will be the refuge's first major interpretive center. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - The Museum has a five-year partnership agreement with the Mississippi Valley Division of the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and all six districts on the Mississippi River (St. Paul, Rock Island, St. Louis, Memphis, Vicksburg, and New Orleans), to interpret the Corps' role in managing the Mississippi River. Museum staff has visited several times with all six districts of the Corps, working with historians and planners. Museum staff also has met four times with commissioners of the congressionally appointed Mississippi River Commission. U.S. Coast Guard - The Museum has a 3-year partnership agreement with the U. S. Coast Guard. This agreement, signed with Admiral Paul Pluta in New Odeans in 2000, provides assistance to the museum's efforts to tell the story of aids to navigation, safety Attachment F efforts on the river, and the considerable number of boats built at the museum site for the Coast Guard. U. S. Geological Survey - The Museum is working with scientists at the U.S. Geological survey to create flood plain models and other exhibits. Over the past 14 years, the Geological Survey's Mississippi River environmental monitoring program at Onalaska, Wisconsin, has conducted over $100 million of research. Their partnership with the Amedca's River project allows the Geological Survey to find a public outlet for this information, and allows the museum to have at its disposal the top scientific research of the river. U,S, Department of Agriculture - The museum has consulted several times with officials for the USDA's Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) EPA - Project officials have met with regional offices of EPA in Kansas City and have secured funding for equipment from EPA. Tulane University, New Orleans - America's River is finalizing its partnership with the president of Tulane University to share research and planning between America's River and Tulane's preposed River Studies Center. Great River Road - America's River is the lead organization for the Great River Road's Mississippi River Interpretive Center Network, a collaboration of 50 museums and interpretive centers in ten states along the Mississippi River that interpret the Mississippi River. America's River has contacted all 50 sites and secured their agreement to be part of the network and to cross-market adjacent sites. The national Great River Road map now feature these fifty interpretive centers, and the Mississippi River Parkway Commission promotes these centers to its domestic and international market. National Scenic Byway - This site will be a national interpretive center for the Mississippi River National Scenic Byway, a federal designation granted to the four states of Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. The other six states along the Great River Road are making application as well towards a goal of having all ten states along the Great River Road designated as a National Scenic Byway. American Heritage Rivers Project -America's River is one of the key projects in the American Heritage Rivers Program, a federal initiative that now includes 56 communities along the Upper Mississippi River for development, preservation and interpretation. This is one of the major projects for the National American Heritage Rivers Program. James Lee Witt, director of the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) was sent to Dubuque by President Clinton when the American Heritage program was announced in 1998. Grand Excursion of 2004 - America's River is a partner in the Upper Mississippi Grand Excursion of 2004, a recreation of the grand excursion of 1854 involving 4 states. The 2004 tour will include the Delta Queen steamboat and up to 11 additional riverboats on Attachment F a historic reenactment of the 1854 excursion from Rock Island, Illinois to St. Paul, Minnesota. Millennium Mississippi River Bicycle Trail - America's River is a partner in the millennium Mississippi River Bicycle Trail that will extend the entire length of the Mississippi River. An organizational meeting for the five-state upper region of this trail was held at the museum in 1999. National Maritime Alliance - The Mississippi River Museum is one of the founding organizers of the National Madtime Alliance, a group of maritime museums from across the country that meet to advance their field and share insights. Iowa Department of Natural Resources - Tom Boland, fisheries biologist for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources at the Bellevue Station, has been a key player in the development of the River Discovery Center since its inception. Mr. Boland has met with exhibit scholars, designers and curators continuously over the past four years, providing review of exhibit plans. In addition, project officials have consulted with current or former Iowa Department of Natural Resource personnel Paul Johnson, Larry Wilson, Mike Carrier, Kevin Skrodonski, John Pitlow and others for advice on the center. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources - John Wetzel has worked with the River Discovery Center for three years with the development of the exhibits and programs. This has included the active involvement of Mr. Wetzel in numerous meetings in Dubuque. Illinois Department of Natural Resources - Doug Dufford has worked with the River Discovery Center for three years with the development of the exhibits and programs. This has included the active involvement of Mr. Dufford in at numerous meetings in Dubuque. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Mike Davis of the Minnesota DNR has been an advisor to the project since its inception. He has reviewed exhibit concepts and provided guidance on the development of the exhibits. Missouri Department of Conservation - Officials from the Missouri Department of Conservation and its Division of Parks have advised on the development of the exhibits and have been available to consult on the project development. Silos and Smokestacks ~ The Mississippi River Museum is a part of Silos and Smokestacks Natural Heritage Area in Northeast Iowa and has worked with Silos and Smokestacks in organizational planning and development meetings since its inception. Attachment F SPECIAL BOATING PARTNERS University of Dubuque - The University has a 40 foot houseboat which will use these docks on an occasional basis. The University's river environment field studies program on board this houseboat will use these docks to pick up and drop off students. This floating science classroom provides field research opportunities and internships for its students. Audubon Ark - The National Audubon Society has developed a national effort for the Upper Mississippi River, similar to its recently completed national effort for the Florida Everglades. This includes the Audubon Ark, a sternwheel boat which will tour the length of the Upper Mississippi providing educational programs about conservation. The Audubon Ark will use the docks for transient docking and will make the Mississippi River Museum at Dubuque as its home base. Mimi on the Mississippi - America's River officials are working with the producers of the Voyage of the Mimi to plan for a Mimi on the Mississippi touring educational program. The Voyage of the Mimi was an educational enrichment program aired by National Public Educational Television and starring Ben Afleck. It was so popular that a sequel was created which also aired on Public Television. Now the producers are exploring Mimi on the Mississippi which will be a riverboat which tours the Mississippi to explore history, science and other subjects. The Mimi would make transient stops at these boat docks, and would be housed at the adjacent Mississippi River Museum. All three of these educational programs would utilize the boat docks for occasional use, bringing tremendous exposure to pleasure boating on the Mississippi. They would not take mooring spots away from other users. LOCAL PARTNERS Dubuque Yacht Club - the Dubuque Yacht club has made a donation of $20,000 and their members have made significant contributions specifically towards these boat docks. Friends of the Upper Mississippi River Refuge - America's River established a local chapter of the Friends of the Upper Mississippi River Refuge to work with other Friends chapters in Winona, Minnesota; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Savanna, Illinois. This is a grass roots effort to involve people along the length of the river in preservation of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service's longest refuge in the lower 48 states. The Greater Dubuque Development Corporation has provided exemplary leadership in the strategic planning and development of America's River. The Board has served on leadership committees for the project since its inception, guiding the development of the project and providing a crucial liaison with local and national business partners as well as statewide and national leaders. Attachment F The Dubuque Area Labor Management Council has been involved in the project in an advisory capacity, providing an important link between project officials and organized labor and management. The Dubuque Community School District has designated America's River as an extended satellite classroom in recognition of the educational impact of the development and the continued partnership. The school distdct has provided extensive consultation on the planning for the River Discovery Center and the Education and Conference Center, including work with curriculum coordinators, planners, audio visual and computer technicians, and instructors in history, science, and language arts. This year the school district has dedicated one of its new employees as a half- time coordinator for the project to foster continued effort between America's River and the school district. The Dubuque Metropolitan Schools have provided valuable guidance in the development of the River Discovery Center and the Education and Conference Center. Just as with the Dubuque Community School District, students from the parochial schools will be major beneficiaries of the educational offerings of America's River, and teachers are collaborating with project educators to create effective learning experiences. Sac and Fox Tribal Council, Tama, Iowa - The Council has committed to work with America's River to develop exhibits which tell the story of the Meskwaki people and their settlement at Dubuque. Tribal Historian Jonathon Buffalo has stated that it is crucial that this project remember the Meskwaki people and their village at the mouth of Catfish Creek that led to the state's oldest city, Dubuque. The Meskwaki are advising on the Storyteller Wikiup to be located as a living history outpost on the Wetland and providing artifacts for the indoor museum exhibits. Clarke College, Dubuque - Scholars from the biology department are assisting with exhibit content. The academic dean, the education department, and a task force of faculty representing the entire college are planning for an America's River museum internship program. Faculty have assisted in planning for the Education and Conference Center as well. The honors colloquium class dedicated its entire two semester curriculum to America's River, and the English Department has committed to a Mississippi River reading discussion program in 2002- 2003. Loras College, Dubuque - Scholars from the biology department have been providing research since the project's very inception and have assisted with aquarium design and on-river filming. A formal museum internship program has begun with three interns each year. Discussions are underway for joint professorships with the college and the Museum. Education faculty and administrators assisted with the development of the Education and Conference Center. A communication class dedicated an entire semester to design a major media campaign for America's River, complete with press kits and virtual tours on CD-ROM. Attachment F Northeast Iowa Community College - NICC hosted a planning session for the educational content for the Education and Conference Center. Administrators and America's River officials are investigating the creation of a museum restoration program for histodc preservation of boats and buildings at the Port of Dubuque and throughout the community. Mentors in the skilled trades will work with students, and in some cases, disadvantaged youth to provide "hands on" experience and build self-esteem. University of Iowa, Hydrology department - America's River has consulted with personnel from the University of Iowa's Hydrology Department in an on-site visit and will continue to work with the department as the stream table exhibit design is finalized. Discussion continues about the possibility of adding Dubuque as a satellite station for University of Iowa studies. Graceland College, Lamoni - The Mississippi River Museum has established a formal museum studies internship program with Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa, where students receive college credit and a stipend for their site work at the museum. The Dubuque Area Jaycees - The Jaycees have committed to a major five-year campaign to support America's River. This includes dedication of funds raised through the Jaycees summer "All That Jazz" concert series and festival events throughout the year. The Dubuque Jaycees' Millennium Ball has now evolved into an annual New Year's Eve Celebration with proceeds to America's River. The Jaycees total gift is $125,000. Rotary - The Key City Rotary Club of Dubuque has committed to a five-year effort to increase awareness and to raise $50,000 for America's River through a series of public events each year. These include an annual summer Swing Fest and an annual '~/Vine For Our River" auction. River Discovery Consortium - This a new organization of environmental groups formed by America's Riverto actively engage local citizens in the environmental mission ofthe Discovery Center. This unprecedented consortium breught together over 40 organizations and another 30 individuals to help plan the project and to engage in environmental education action in the watershed. The Consortium has advanced the Mississippi River Discovery Center with significant input on the design of the outdoor wetland, stream tables, flood tables, wetlab, and aquarium exhibits. Catfish Creek Coalition - The Coalition was organized through the River Discovery Consortium's efforts to raise public awareness of the watershed and its importance to the main stem of the river. Its mission is to engage in effective action for the preservation, restoration and protection of the Catfish Creek watershed of the Mississippi River, and to inspire people to act responsibly as stewards of our natural resources. This has included steps to identify, preserve and restore Catfish Creek habitat and portions of this stream; public education regarding urban and residential Attachment F land use; and advocating best management practices in commercial and industrial land development and on agricultural land. Storm Drain Stenciling Initiative - Working with the Catfish Creek Coalition, the River Discovery Consortium coordinated a storm drain stenciling initiative. This was a major volunteer effort in the community to actively involve its citizens in raising awareness about dyer conservation. Over 200 volunteers, many of them high school and grade school students, were recruited to apply a stencil to 1,400 drains that are part of the city's storm water removal system. These drains were stenciled with the message "Dump no waste, drains to river." Outreach included public access television programming, classroom visits by the consortium coordinator, and brochures explaining the effort distributed door to door in neighborhoods where the stenciling was done. Riprow Valley Citizens Group - This group was established by members of the River Discovery Consortium and others. This group was successful in preventing a junk and salvage yard from locating on the banks of the Mississippi River and Catfish Creek. It subsequently secured public and private funds to purchase 19 acres of land and preserve it as a native prairie and green space. Senior High School Key Club - Twenty-eight students from this service club held a dance to raise money for America's River, securing $500 towards the project. The Key Club met with America's River partnership officials at Senior High School to present their gift to the community. Attachment F NATIONAL CABINET A National Cabinet of leaders in the river shipping industry, river entrepreneurs, and conservationists have played an active role in securing funds and in advising the project: Terry Becker, President, Riverway Barge Company, Minneapolis. Mr. Becker has hosted project leaders at his office in Minneapolis and has consulted with leaders in St. Louis and New Orleans. Mr. Becker has been instrumental in opening doors in the Twin Cities. Vernon Behrhorst, former director of Gulf Intracoastal Waterways Association. Mr. Behrhorst has served as special advisor to the National Rivers Hall of Fame for the past three years, working with the Dubuque office on a daily basis to identify and approach donors. Captain Bill Bowell, owner of the Padelford Packet Company Excursion Boats in St. Paul, Minnesota. Captain Bowell is a national advisor and a national advocate in the excursion industry. He is founder of the National Association of Passenger Vessel Operators, and will use his connections to help us make contact with major excursion operatom in the country. Chris Brescia, President of Midwest Area River Coalition 2000 (MARC 2000), St. Louis. Mr. Brescia, who works with the major barge interests on the Mississippi River, has advised on the campaign for the past three years. Harry Cook, President of the National Waterways Conference, has served as national advisor for over ten years and has identified key prospects and contacts for the fund raising effort. Michael Hagan, President and CEO of American Commercial Lines, the world's largest barge line. Mr. Hagan has dedicated a significant amount of his time to identify prospects and approach potential donors. John Hartford, a three time Grammy award winning river musician of Nashville, Tennessee (deceased, 2001). Mr. Hartford is on the Museum's National Advisory Board. He is a river pilot and river musician, and is best known as the composer of "Gentle on My Mind." He arranged for a live presentation of a Hall of Fame National Achievement Award on the "Nashville Now" program, which brought responses from across the country. Berdon Lawrence, President and CEO of Kirby Corporation. Kirby recently merged with Hollywood Marine, Houston, Texas (a company which includes George Bush, Sr. on the board of directors). Mr. Lawrence has meet with America's River officials several times at his office in Houston and at national conferences. He has also promoted a pending partnership with the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Attachment F Fred Luckey, Vice President, Bunge Corporation, St. Louis. Bunge is the largest shipper of soybeans in the western hemisphere and has significant investment along the Mississippi and Missouri River, including the recent development at Council Bluffs. He has met with project officials on numerous occasions. J. Merrick Jones, President, (deceased 9/0'1) Canal Barge Lines, New Orleans. Mr. Jones has met with project leaders several times in New Orleans and has visited the project site in Dubuque. He is promoting a partnership with the Children's Museum of New Orleans, Louisiana. Honorable Governor Tom Viisack worked with the newly elected governors of the Upper Mississippi River states to secure a second letter to Congress in support of Federal funds. This letter included the signatures of Governor Tom Vilsack (Iowa), Governor Jesse Ventura (Minnesota), Governor Tommy Thompson (Wisconsin), Governor George Ryan (Illinois), and the late Governor Mel Carnahan (Missouri). Former Iowa Governor Terry Branstad. Governor Branstad traveled to New Odeans on behalf of the project, hosting a reception for the inland waterways shipping industry and agribusiness in New Orleans. Govemor Branstad worked with the governors of the other four states bordering the Upper Mississippi River (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and Missouri) for support of our successful requests for appropriations from Congress. Attachment F Endorsements "Going far beyond the scope of most county historical societies, your organization has become a vehicle fortelling the big story of the Mississippi Riverto local, regional, and national audiences." William R. Ferris, Chairman, National Endowment for the Humanities, February 15, 2000 "As governors of the five states that share the Upper Mississippi River, we strongly support the development of the first-of-its-kind Upper Mississippi River Interpretive Center to share its bounty with all citizens... The people of our five states are committing $13 million toward this $26 million Center." Governor Tom Vilsack, Iowa; Governor George Ryan, Illinois; Governor Tommy Thompson, Wisconsin; Governor Jesse Ventura, Minnesota; and the late Governor Mel Carnahan, Missouri, April 28, 1999 'The Upper Mississippi Fish and Wildlife Refuge, the nation's longest and busiest refuge, has 3 million visitors a year, as many as Yellowstone National Park. Yet the Upper Mississippi River Refuge, 261 miles long and bordering four states, has no interpretive center." Testimony of Jerry Enzler, Museum Director, Mississippi River Museum, to U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior and Related Agencies; March 3, 1998 "...The Mississippi River Discovery Center and the Riverwalk and the Mississippi River Education and Conference Center will help promote and preserve one of our nation's and community's great resources - the Mississippi River. Those components, in addition to the hotel and recreational facilities, will make Dubuque's riverfront an entertaining and educational destination for its citizens, as well as visitors from outside the city." John K. Schmidt, President and CEO, Dubuque Bank and Trust, Dubuque; December 12, 2000 "...we would like to share our support for a project we think would be a great asset to the Upper Mississippi River Basin and the entire nation." Upper Mississippi River Congressional Task Force; April 5, 1999 "... the [Mississippi River Discovery] Center project is an outstanding partnership which will enrich the understanding and appreciation of all who visit this remarkable historic region and it's spectacular environment." Former Senator John C. Culver; March 10, 1999 "The impact on kids will astonish people when it's completed. There are 40,000 K-12 students in the tri-state area that could have the Discovery Center as part of their curriculum and site for field studies. In addition, using the Iowa Communications Network and the Intemet, there is tremendous potential to expand the museum's outreach to students in Iowa and across the nation." Scott Gill, Outward Bound Expeditionary Learning Attachment F "Our organization has significant monetary and emotional commitment to this fascinating project. America's River will not only be an ongoing Iowa attraction, but a national one as well. To fully realize the entire dream, significant support from Vision Iowa is vital." Nicholas J. Schrup III, President and CEO, American Trust and Savings Bank, Dubuque; November 21, 2000 "This plan of making the Mississippi River in Dubuque a place of conservation and education will benefit generations to come." Sister Joy Peterson, PBVM, President, Sisters of the Presentation, Dubuque; November 28, 2000 "One of the reasons we are so excited about the project is that we envision increased shortages of key personnel and technical staff in the future and we believe America's River is the type of community involvement that will significantly enhance our ability to recruit and retain the kind of people we will need." Russell M, Knight, President and CEO, Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque; November 20, 2000 "In today's tight job market companies are in competition for quality employees from across the nation. A project like America's River can help attract new employees and their families to our community by offering quality jobs. In addition to attracting a new work force, America's River will bring economic benefit, environmental awareness, and cultural enrichment to the state of Iowa." Bruce Wentworth, General Manager, Dubuque Racing Association; December 4, 2000 ''The America's River project will make Iowa and Dubuque County a majortourist destination. And this project is ready to proceed, with a potential to begin construction in March of 2001. I hope that you will fund this magnificent project, and in doing so, enhance the potential for Iowa and Dubuque County to be an important destination for tourists, scholars and environmentalists from the world," Jim Waller, Dubuque County Supervisor, November 22, 2000 '1lYe look forward to the opportunity for local union contractors and suppliers to contribute to this project and secure employment with living wages and benefits for area workers." David Ross, Management chair, and Mel Duehr, Labor chair, Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council; December 14, 2000 ''The economic and educational opportunities and quality of life issues embodied in America's River represent the vision of an entire community- a vision to see Dubuque flourish and grow for generations, a vision whose time has come." Jan Feltes, Jan's Grate Shop, Cable Car Square, Dubuque; December, 2000 FROMm: MRM,~DCHS FAX NO. : OFFICE OF THE (~OVERNOR ATTACHMENT F SALLY J, P£~E~N The Honorabl,~ Ralph P,,c,~I~ Ch~rma~ HOuse ApproFrlations S~beorar~tlee o~ ~ B.30~ ~yb~ House ~:e B~lding Wa~p~on, D.C 20515 ~ ClaLrm~ Regula: The Mississippi R.iv~r is one of the workPs greatest natural treasures ant] provides America with ~6c~p.~ eccmomi~, ~e.~on~t ~l envlronmer~l b~ts, As thc goveroors of the tlve states that share the Upper Mississippi ]~ve~, 'w~ stro~gty support ~ development of the first-of-its-kind Upper Mississippi River l~terpretive Center to share its hoary with all The Upper M~si~igpi W~tl~r, ~xl F~ ~ge is ~1 ~ 1o~ is ~ bom of4~A 0f · e ~fion's ~at~ w~,L ~ut~ ~0~ tO ~e ~ ~no~, ~ ~ ~ r~tio~l ~di~ ofSl.2 b~on ~r ~. A p~p ofpHvale ~ rote ~ 1o~ g~t, ~o~o~, b~ ~t f~ h~ a~ a ¢~ for ~ first ~ive ~r C~, to ~ ]~t~ ~ ~b~ ~w~. ~c~ ag~c~s ~d ~v~e A Parmerr, hip Agreemer~ is ~ow Lq pla~e between the Mississippi River Museum and U.$. Fish & Wildlife Service to interpret the Upper Mississippi River Wildlife and lr~d~ Refuge...A pannership is being llnalized with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi V~lley Division, to interpret the Upper Mississippi The Mississippi River Museum ~ the Chy of Dubuclue are requesting $2 million for planning, site devetoprnent~ a~:l co~r~01io~ ~ Ix!rt of thc U.S. Fish & ltrddlife Servioe budget for FY 2000, to be f',flly matched I~ ron-fedr, raI Iources. The people ofour five states sre committirig $13 miltic~ towzrcl ~s S:26 ~_~on Center. A~di~iona~y, vwr $8 million h private funds have been raisai thus far. We offer our strong and actud~I zugpon to the creation of this major new Interpretive Cmuer. We ask you for your fiacli~ support to m~lee the Upper Mississippi River Interpretive FRO~ : t~R~/DCHS FAX NO, : E~5831241 Sep. 25 20~1 ~0:43AH PS pe~c 2 cuh~lr'~] ~ifi to America ~'~d thcwofld. State Of~'isconsm ~te of M~n~eso~ Governor Me! Cam~an State of M~s~ouri Mid-Town Marina 285 5thSt PO Box 145 East Dubuque, IL 61025-0145 815-747-3310 Septcmaber 25, 2001 Cindy Steinhauser Assistant City Manager CityofDubuque 50W. 13m St. Dubuque, IA 52001 Dear Ms. Steinhauser: This letter is in support of the City of Dubuque's application for transient boat docks through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Boating Infi~astructure Grant program. As the co-owner/operator of Mid-Town Marina in East Dubuque, Illinois, I strongly urge your approval. The Dubuque area has a growing need for docking facilities for large boats. With the addition of the America's River project, this need will be greatly increased. The new Mississippi River Discovery Center, the Riverfront Hotel and Waterpark, the Education and Conference Center and the Riverwalk and amenities will increase the number of boaters to this area dramatically, and these docks are essential to meet the increased demand. This project will be a benefit to people and businesses in Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin. As a marina owner in Illinois, I am pleased to serve on the Tri-state Boat Docks Advisory Task Force which is working on meeting the boating needs for the entire tri-state area. We ~ncourage your support of this project. Sincerely, Sandy McDowell Co-Owner SM/ms CASINO ATTACHMENT E September 24, 2001 Cindy Steinhauser Assistant City Manager City of Dubuque 50 W. 13~ Street Dubuque, IA 52001 Dear Ms. Steinhauser: It is my understanding that the City is applying for a grant through the "Boating Infrastructure Grant Program". I also understand that this grant money will be used to accon-nnodate larger transient boats of 26 feet or more in length. Having such docking facilities in the Ice Harbor would greatly benefit the Diamond Jo Casino, as well as the two restaurants located within our Portside facility. Such docking facilities would also be a great benefit to the new riverfront development businesses such as the Museum, Discovery Center, hotel, etc. In addition, docking at the Ice Harbor would also make downtown Dubuque more accessible to the passengers of the larger cruising vessels and would have a positive affect on Dubuque's downtown businesses, shops, restaurants, etc. Having been a Captain on the Mississippi River system for over 18 years, I understand and appreciate the need for such boat docks. Since Dubuque does not have adequate docking facilities for the larger boats, I strongly believe that many tourists pass by Dubuque. This is unfortunate because of the many amenities that the City has to offer. Unfortunately, I do see one major problem with access to the boat docks from the navigable channel. Even at current water levels, there is not sufficient water depth to accommodate large vessels at the proposed docking facility. Ice Harbor plans call for wetlands to be built in the northwest comer of the Ice Harbor. Encompassed within this plan is to extend the twvo City storm sewers further into the Harbor. This will cause the siltation problem that currently exists in the far west end of the Harbor to move closer to the stem of the Diamond Jo, as well as completely encompass the proposed site for the boat docks. Therefore, I would propose that dredging be done along the edges of the west end of the Ice Harbor to remove the sediment that has accumulated over the past 35 years the Ice 3rd St. Ice Harbor · P.O. Box 1750 · Dubuque, IA 52004~1750 · Phone 319-583-7005 · Fax 319-583-7516 Harbor has been in existence. This dredging, if done, should take care of the siltation problem in the Ice Harbor for many years to come. If you have any questions regarding the above, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, ~/ .~vin Stier, . Director of Marine Operations KS/kb .IOA!~I $,I30!JOUJV 8 J.N =11~ HOYJ..I.¥ America's River at the Port of Dubu Thc Mississippi River Discovery Center and Aquarium, and the National Rivers Hall of Fame will create a national musemn of the Mississippi River and the rivers of America. ']'his center will feature aquariums, world-class exhibits, and a national repository for river history and ecology. The Mississippi Riverwalk and Amenities. The Mississippi [{iverwalk will be pcralmd atop tile .]olm C. Cidver Flood Wall and will link the Star Brewery Amphitheater, tbe River's Edge Plaza (a landing for the Delta Queen and other large riverboats), visiting boat docks, greenways, public art, parking, and public infrastructure. River Education and ncc Center wiU provide spaces, exhibit facilities distance learning eapabiliBes for regional national education and forums. The Mississippi Riverfront Hotel Indoor Waterpark, developed by LLC, will offer approximately 200 rooms with dramatic views of thc river, a full-service restaurant and clltertaimnel/t services. Iowa's first indoor water- park will feature hundreds of aquatic activities in a four-story, 24,000-squm'e-foot play area. ATTACHMENT A AT THE PORT OF DUBUQUIg AT THE PORT OF DUBUQUE America's River is the only place on thc entire 2,400-ntile stretch of thc Mississippi River tlmt captures tbe historical, environmental, educafionaJ and recreational mojcsty of the river. As the third largest river in the world, tile Mississippi plays an essential role in our nation's past, present and ~tture. America.'s River at the Port of Dubuque offers a comprehensive, multifaceted campus that celebrates tile Mississippi River with world-class facilities. The Mississippi River Discovery Center and National Rivers llall of Fame will be a state~of~ the~art facility. Five major aquariums, each 30-foot wide, wiIl bring to life distinct river habitats including the backwater marsh, flooded bottomlnnd forest, tbe main channel, an otter pond, m~d delta bayou swamp with alligators and snapping turtles, llands-on exhibits will let visitors create a flowing river, study river hydrology and flooding, and simtflate pilotix~g a towboat. Fiber optic technology will connect the River Discovery Center with sites across tbe co,retry. Completion date: May 2003 The Mississippi Riverwalk and Affinities will include a walk alo~ig the river on top of the John G. Culver Flood Wall. The walk will be 16 feet across and feature decorative paving, benches and lighting. At one end, the River's Bdge Plaza will feature cascading stairs into thc river and will serve as a landing berth for large excursim~ vessels. At the north end of tbe walk, a 1,000-seat ~mphitheater at tho historic Star Brewery will showcase music, drama and cultural events. Completion date: July 2002. The Mississippi River National Education and Cm]ference Center will be a 114,500-square-foot conference, meeting and training faeility on the banks of thc Mississippi River. It will offer state-of- the-art technology to all of its 12,000-square-foot meeting and classroom space. The facility will feature a flexible 30,000- square~foot exhibition a~d assembly hall. A 12,000-square- foot Grand Salon Ballroom adjacent to a 9,000-square-foot outdoor river terrace ~vill create unique dining and dynmnic entertainment space. Fiber optics and satellite links will connect the center to other corporate and public sites across thc country, the Riverfront Hotel, tbe River Discovew Center and National Rivers Hall of Fame. Completion date: November 2003. The Mississippi Riverfront Hotel and h~door Water'park will feature approximately 200 roolns with drmnatio views of the river, a fifll-se~wiee restaurant, m~d spacious meeting facilities connected to the Mississippi River National Education and Conference Center. The hotel waterpark ,and conference center will be managed by Platinum Hospitality Group. The 24,000-square-foot indoor waterpark will include nearly four-story high waterslldes, body slides, and flume rides. Water cannons and water toys themed to the Mississippi River will provide fun and excitement for children of all ages. Completion date: September 2002.