MARION
16 • THE SOURCE 2024
MARION
HOME OF the Sprint Car Capital of the World and America ’ s Dutch Treasure , Marion County is a community with deep roots in manufacturing , agriculture , tourism and Dutch heritage — all of which continue to thrive as the county makes big strides to invest in its future .
In 2022 , city and county officials broke ground for the Knoxville VA District Redevelopment project . From the VA district ’ s closure in 2005 to gaining local control of the property in 2020 , the project was 15 years in the making and will bring life back to the 160-acre area for the community .
Just 15 miles northeast from the county seat , the City of Pella embarked on an ambitious multi-million-dollar facilities plan to invest in recreation and fine arts in the community . The plan includes building a new indoor recreation center ; renovating the Pella Community Center ; extending University street and Baseline Drive to include a walking trail that will connect to Caldwell Park ; relocating the existing soccer complex to Pella Sports Park and ; a Pella Dog Park . The city is also embarking on building new housing in Pella as it eyes further growth in the near future .
Marion County also boasts Lake Red Rock , the largest lake in Iowa , which offers residents and visitors numerous opportunities for recreation like camping , hiking , boating and fishing . And in the first weekend of May , Pella holds its world-famous Tulip Time Festival , where guests can enjoy traditional Dutch food and folk acts , as well as costumes and parades . Meanwhile , the Knoxville Nationals in August are a must for fans of sprint car racing , or of motorsports in general , and brings in tens of thousands of spectators annually .