CABOOSE IN MARION TO BE MOVED ON THURSDAY FOR RESTORATION WORK

CABOOSE IN MARION TO BE MOVED ON THURSDAY FOR RESTORATION WORK

On Thursday morning, June 8, crews will begin the process of removing the caboose from City Square Park so that it can be refurbished and later reintroduced to the City’s park system.

Plans call for it to be the focal point of a new pocket park located near 31st Street and the Grant Wood Trail that celebrates Marion’s railroad history. The trail follows the former railroad right-of-way and connects several Marion parks, including Waldo’s Rock Park, City Square Park and Thomas Park.

About the Caboose
Since 1992 the caboose has been situated in the southeast corner of City Square Park in Marion. It is a former CRANDIC Northeastern caboose painted in the Milwaukee Railroad colors. The CRANDIC line never connected to or used the Milwaukee rail lines through Marion. While the caboose is not local to Marion, it does represent Marion’s historic ties to the railroad and the importance that it played in the early growth and development of the community.

Plans for City Square Park
Last fall, the City received a $3 million Destination Iowa grant from the State – from the American Rescue Plan Act – to support the Central Plaza project. The concept activates the park year-round by providing flexible space for daily outdoor use and special events throughout the year. The eastern section of the park and vacated S. 11th Street will be transformed to include Iowa’s first ice-skating loop, enclosure of the Depot Pavilion, public restrooms, live performance space, engaging water features, an interactive play sculpture, public art and seating, decorative lighting, fire tables and more.

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About the City of Marion
Marion is one of the Midwest’s fastest-growing cities. Located just minutes north of Cedar Rapids, Marion prides itself on being the best place in Iowa to raise a family and grow a business. Reach higher and achieve more in Marion. Visit www.cityofmarion.org to learn more.

Amber Bisinger
Communications Manager
1225 6th Avenue | Marion, Iowa 52302
p 319-743-6345 | c 319-640-1608
[email protected]