Lisbon’s comprehensive plan for the next 20 years looks to do just what Eastern Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) outlined from citizens – preserve the small town feel of the city while taking steps to make it more vibrant.
Currently, Lisbon is working on two different park complexes. The first phase of the sports complex could be used this fall to host soccer and other games. Volunteers in the community are also pursuing grants and options to develop Nature Park and its amenities.
Lisbon is also tackling an infrastructure improvement project, updating water mains in a large portion of the city and creating a new well to help the city’s growth and deliver essential services. There have been several trees removed as part of the water main project and derecho, but the city has been mindful of that and wanted to move infrastructure from under city streets to the right of way to reduce tearing up roads as water mains break.
Other goals on the comprehensive plan include supporting commercial and industrial development in the city, ensure a variety of community housing options, maintain a walkable community and support regional trail programs, and ensure the community takes advantage of the Hwy. 30 bypass.
Each of those steps in the comprehensive plan (available on the City of Lisbon website) outlines steps and action plans the council and future city councils can chip away at to seeing these plans implemented.
Much like Mount Vernon’s comprehensive plans, having long-term goals helps focus the energy of the council for the goals citizens have identified as important, and the next 20 years look like a lot to be excited about.