ITC Midwest Contributes $5,000 to Support Iowa River’s Edge Trail South Fork Bridge Hydrological Study

MARSHALLTOWN, IOWA (Dec. 16, 2024) - ITC Midwest has announced a $5,000 contribution to Hardin County through a Power of Connection grant administered jointly with the Iowa Rural Development Council to support a hydrological study for the Iowa River's Edge Trail, focusing on the South Fork Bridge. This study is a critical step in the development of the Iowa River's Edge Trail, which connects multiple communities and links to the existing trail system in Marshalltown.

"We're grateful to ITC Midwest for their investment in the Iowa River's Edge Trail project," said Hardin County Economic Development Director Deb Crosser. "This hydrological study will help us ensure a safe and environmentally responsible bridge design, bringing us closer to the vision of a completed trail system that will boost tourism and connect our communities."

The hydrological study will assess water flow and environmental factors impacting the South Fork Bridge area. This information is essential to ensuring the bridge and trail are designed to withstand natural conditions, while minimizing environmental impact and enhancing trail safety. The Iowa River's Edge Trail will serve as a scenic and recreational corridor, supporting both local quality of life and economic development by attracting visitors and encouraging outdoor activities.

"ITC Midwest's support of the hydrological study will spearhead development of the Iowa River's Edge Trail," said ITC Midwest President Dusky Terry. "By contributing to this study, we're helping to ensure that the trail and bridge are thoughtfully designed to bring economic and recreational benefits to the area. This project reflects our commitment to supporting communities and enhancing the quality of life throughout the ITC Midwest service territory."

When complete, the Iowa River's Edge Trail will connect to a broader trail system spanning 34 miles from Steamboat Rock to Marshalltown, benefiting area residents and visitors alike. ITC Midwest's contribution reflects its commitment to fostering economic growth and environmental stewardship in Iowa's communities.

About the Power of Connection Program
The Power of Connection community grant program is an initiative of ITC Midwest and the Iowa Rural Development Council (IRDC). This innovative economic development program is designed to pair rural communities seeking assistance with IRDC resource teams. Those teams drive both community conversations and solution development for problems or projects.

Communities eligible for the Power of Connection program must have populations of under 10,000 and be outside of a metropolitan area. Power of Connection grant dollars cannot be used for construction, real estate or equipment.

About ITC Midwest
ITC Midwest LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ITC Holdings Corp., the nation's largest independent electricity transmission company. ITC Midwest operates more than 6,600 circuit miles of transmission lines in Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois and Missouri, and holds utility status in Wisconsin. ITC Midwest is headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and maintains regional operating facilities in Dubuque, Iowa City and Perry, Iowa; and Albert Lea and Lakefield, Minnesota. For further information visit www.itcmidwest.com. ITC is a subsidiary of Fortis Inc., a leader in the North American regulated electric and gas utility industry. For further information visit www.fortisinc.com.

Media Contacts:
Bill Menner, Executive Director, Iowa Rural Development Council, [email protected] or 641-990-4757
Darcy Moulin, Senior Communications Specialist, ITC Midwest [email protected] or 319-297-6837