Rail Park Site News

After weeks of oftentimes tense negotiations between Jasper County’s negotiating team and the city of Newton, a preliminary understanding in the form of a joint agreement forming an Urban Renewal Area to allow the county to be able to finance, through Tax Increment Financing, the infrastructure for the proposed Jasper County Rail Park was passed on a 5-1 vote by Newton’s city council at their April 21 meeting. Jasper County will partner financially with Iowa Interstate Railroad and Alliant Energy to form a ready-to-go industrial park to attract businesses needing rail access and/or having high energy requirements. The county will collaborate with Newton to develop the infrastructure to the city’s standards. 

This is a generational economic development opportunity for the greater Jasper County area, creating new jobs and an increased tax base. Jeff Davidson, Jasper County’s Economic Development (JEDCO), and Frank Liebl of Newton Development Corporation worked countless hours to make this project a reality. 

Jasper County’s leadership has stood strong in recognizing the importance of this development for future generations of all county residents. The county’s strong financial position due to its conservative spending practices over the years has made this ambitious project possible. We are honored to be at the forefront of this exciting development opportunity, paving the way for a brighter future for all of Jasper County!