MARION
16 • THE SOURCE 2026
MARION
HOME OF THE Sprint Car Capital of the World and America’ s Dutch Treasure, Marion County blends deep roots in manufacturing, agriculture, tourism and Dutch heritage with the kind of forward momentum that’ s easy to see— and hard not to feel. From Pella’ s global manufacturers to Knoxville’ s hometown energy, the county continues to grow while staying grounded in what makes it distinct.
In Knoxville, the long-planned redevelopment of the former VA district is no longer just a vision on paper. New home construction continues to move forward in the Veterans District, and 2026 is shaping up as another big year for housing citywide— including senior units, new apartments and townhomes, and a larger market-rate rental development. As rooftops rise, Knoxville is also seeing the kind of everyday amenities that signal a community on the upswing.
Just 15 miles northeast, Pella’ s community investment plan is entering a new phase. Construction is ramping up on the Pella Indoor Recreation and Aquatics Center, while major renovations to the historic Pella Community Center are slated to begin after Tulip Time this year. Together, those projects reflect a city planning not just for the next season, but for the next generation.
And for recreation, Marion County still punches above its weight: Lake Red Rock— Iowa’ s largest lake— anchors the outdoors with camping, hiking, boating and fishing. Each May, Tulip Time turns Pella into a postcard of Dutch tradition, and every August, Knoxville becomes a national destination as the Knoxville Nationals draw tens of thousands of race fans to the half-mile dirt track.