On April 9, the Great Outdoors Foundation announced that the City of Johnston was selected as a grantee of the MidAmerican Energy Company Regional Fund, a $125,000 endowment invested in ICON Water Trails.

Project Purpose

The project’s purpose is to create a vibrant and dynamic recreational space that will attract locals and tourists alike. The water trail access point will serve as a gateway to nature, offering opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore Beaver Creek’s natural beauty. It will also provide a unique way for people to experience the interconnectedness of the community, economy, and nature.

By providing convenient access to the water trails, the project aims to encourage more people to engage in water-based recreational activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. This access point will not only enhance the overall recreational infrastructure of the area but also contribute to the economic development of Johnston by attracting visitors who will also patronize the nearby businesses and amenities.

The project’s emphasis on incorporating public art showcases a commitment to enhancing the area’s cultural and aesthetic appeal. It will contribute to the establishment of a unique identity for the site, reflecting the community’s values and aspirations.

Project Details

The Merle Hay Access will complete the nearly five miles of creek access along Beaver Creek, providing the final put-in and take-out point for water recreation and emergency crews before the confluence with the Des Moines River. This access point is strategically important, as it will enable emergency crews to directly reach the southern end of Beaver Creek without needing to launch from the Des Moines River at the Sycamore Access and navigate downstream to Beaver Creek.

This access is critical for the completion of Johnston’s portion of the Beaver Creek Water Trail system, significantly improving accessibility for both recreational users and emergency responders. The Merle Hay Access will enhance safety and ensure efficient response times for emergencies both upstream and downstream, reinforcing its vital role in the broader water trail network.

The Merle Hay Access is a key component of the area’s ongoing transformation into a vibrant hub for recreation, community engagement, and economic growth. This project underscores Johnston’s commitment to creating interconnected spaces that support both outdoor activities and local businesses, fostering a thriving community environment.

Key Features 

• Emergency Access: The proposed access trail will be constructed to support vehicles and trailers carrying rescue boats, allowing direct water access for emergency equipment.
• Parking and Amenities: The site will include lighted parking, a bike trailhead, a safety E911 call system, trailer parking, and various park amenities.
• Public Artwork: The access point will feature public artwork, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and community connection to the area.

Nearby developments

Life Serve Blood Center: Positioned at 5625 NW Johnston Drive, the new headquarters for Life Serve Blood Center will enhance community health services. This 56,569-square-foot, two-story facility houses administrative offices, blood donation facilities, a blood processing lab, and a volunteer vehicle garage and was completed in June 2024.

Centurion Park: Adjacent to Ignit Sports & Fitness, this upcoming 5-acre green space will feature outdoor turf soccer and cricket fields, a playground, and practice fields, with construction set to begin in 2025.

Gateway Crossing Development: Situated near Ignit Sports & Fitness at 5260 Merle Hay Road, this development recently opened an 11,717-square-foot retail center, home to Caribou Coffee and other retail outlets.

Johnston’s First Dog Park: A short distance east of the Merle Hay Access along the regional trail, this upcoming park at 5401 NW Johnston Drive will span between 5 to 8 acres. It will feature separate areas for large and small dogs, water play access, and parking for up to 40 vehicles, with direct access to the regional trail system. Construction is expected to begin in 2025.

Springhill Suites: Located at 5276 Pitch Parkway, this 126-room full-service hotel is expected to be completed by 2025, further enhancing the area’s hospitality offerings.

Bombers Golf & Entertainment: Located adjacent to the Merle Hay Access at 5055 Merle Hay Road, this 35-acre site is set to become a major entertainment destination. The 80,000-square-foot facility will feature an indoor golf range, arcade, putting range, bowling alley, axe throwing, and a public art feature. Additionally, the site will include a 100-room hotel and three 1-acre plots designated for future development.

Ignit Sports & Fitness Complex: Just upstream on Beaver Creek, west of Merle Hay Road at 5384 Pitch Parkway, Ignit boasts a sprawling 208,000-square-foot indoor sports facility. This complex includes a 300-meter indoor track, volleyball and basketball courts, fitness facilities, outdoor soccer and softball/baseball turf fields, and an outdoor plaza with food truck areas. It is seamlessly connected to Johnston’s trail system.

Project Funding

The city is committed to completing the third and final phase of the development of its ICON sites along Beaver Creek. We are collaborating with the developer of the Bombers Golf & Entertainment complex to provide parking for both land and water trail users. The city has allocated $910,000 for design, permitting, and construction. The $125,000 MidAmerican grant secures the funding needed to move forward with the project.

About the Author: Janet Wilwerding serves as the Communications Director for the City of Johnston. She collaborates closely with the Parks Department, which is responsible for managing 11 parks and facilities. The department offers a wide range of recreational services throughout the year. As our community continues to evolve, we are committed to preserving our historic agricultural heritage and supporting the businesses that have their headquarters here.