When ICON Water Trails was conceived as an idea, those behind the initiative hoped it would one day enhance outdoor recreation in Central Iowa and serve as a placemaking attraction that would help draw people to the region.

With 15 regional sites along 150 miles of rivers and creeks in Central Iowa now activated [when complete, ICON will link 80 sites] and work underway on the Scott Avenue site along the downtown Des Moines riverfront, organizers of ICON said they now have data that shows those hopes are being realized.

ICON this morning announced the completion of a report that shows those 15 sites have generated $20 million to the region’s economy. The report looked at visitors to the 15 sites and their related activities in the area between the months of March and October 2022.

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