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IN FOCUS: 5.8.26 A Weekly Update from City Manager Ryan Waller
For the Good of the Order
Davis Honored with “Spirit of Marion” Award
This week we celebrated Public Service Recognition Week. One of the highlights of the week includes naming the recipient of the Paul Draper "Spirit of Marion" Award. The four quarterly “Reach Higher!” Award recipients were eligible for the honor, and they included Ashley Osborn with the Marion Public Library, Brian Davis in the Police Department, Eric Freese in the Community Development Department and Justin Harris with the Public Works Department. They should all be very proud, as I know I am of their contributions to our team.
The winner was then determined by a vote of City employees and City Council members. I’m proud to announce that the 2026 Paul Draper “Spirit of Marion” Award has been awarded to Brian Davis, police officer and school resource officer for the Marion Independent School District. Brian has been a mentor and advocate for at-risk youth throughout his career. He has led multiple ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) drills, ensuring staff and students are prepared for emergency situations. Congratulations Brian! We're lucky to have you on our team!
Police Officers Ashten Hayes and Ryan Lovejoy take Oath of Office
Earlier this week, City staff, community members, family and friends turned out to celebrate the ceremonial swearing-in of two new police officers, Ashten Hayes and Ryan Lovejoy. Mayor AbouAssaly administered the oath. Congratulations, Ashten and Ryan! We’re proud to have you on the team.
Marion ‘s Central Plaza Receives Signature Project Award from Main Street Iowa
The Iowa Economic Development Authority’s (IEDA) Main Street Iowa celebrated its 40th anniversary Thursday evening during the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards in West Des Moines, recognizing outstanding efforts to revitalize downtown districts across the state. Eighteen projects received Main Street Iowa Development Awards. Marion’s Central Plaza was named the recipient of the Signature Project Award, which recognizes projects demonstrating exceptional impact beyond traditional award categories. Only eight have been awarded previously. The project transformed a key block in Uptown Marion into a year-round gathering space featuring an ice-skating loop, a live performance area, interactive water features, public art and flexible event amenities. The project was selected for its measurable impact on downtown vitality, its multigenerational and community-driven design, and as a strong example of collaborative leadership and strategic investment. Thank you to City Council for their leadership, our City team and partners with Uptown Marion and the Chamber, and all who had a hand in bringing this project to life!
Marion Parks and Recreation Department Honored with Main Street Iowa Leadership Award
During the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards, 45 recipients were recognized with leadership awards for their contributions to local Main Street programs. Marion’s Parks and Recreation Department was nominated by the Uptown Marion District for this distinguished honor for their support of Winter Lights and the Ice Loop in City Square Park. Parks and Recreation staff dedicate 800-1,100 hours – or more – each season to installation, setup, hiring and training, ice building and daily operations. From December through early February, the Ice Loop drew more than 5,000 admissions, boosting winter foot traffic and supporting Uptown Marion businesses. Way to go, Marion Parks & Rec!!
Latest Edition of the Marion Messenger Now Available
The latest edition of the Marion Messenger is making its way to a mailbox near you. It is filled with important information and reminders for residents. Find project information, upcoming event details and more in this quarterly newsletter, which is delivered to every Marion household with a 52302 ZIP code. This issue also includes the Pride & Pack insert from Marion Independent and Linn-Mar Schools.
Overnight Street Painting to Begin Sunday
Starting on Sunday, May 10, crews will be working overnight to paint crosswalks and stop bars in Marion. They will be working overnight Sunday through Thursday, for two weeks, to take advantage of lower traffic volumes and to minimize disruptions for drivers. The work zones will be clearly marked and crews will wear reflective clothing. Please be vigilant and slow down in the active work zones.
Construction Season is in Full Swing
Three high-traffic road segments in Marion are set to close this summer as part of the 2026 Pavement Patching Project. Starting Monday, May 18, 35th Street from Munier Road to 3rd Avenue will close to traffic. Then on Monday, June 8 (tentatively), 10th Street from Indian Creek Road to north of Tower Terrace Road and 29th Avenue from 10th Street to Indian Creek Road will close. This project is part of the City’s ongoing roadway maintenance program to improve pavement conditions and provide safer, smoother travel for motorists. Work will include the removal and replacement of deteriorated pavement joints and severely cracked concrete panels. Major patching is a cost-effective method to restore ride quality and extend the service life of the roadway without requiring full reconstruction. Portable message boards will be placed in advance to notify residents and motorists of upcoming road closures and traffic impacts. Motorists are encouraged to use caution in work zones and allow extra travel time during construction activities. All work is weather dependent and subject to change.
1st Avenue Reconstruction Project Starts Next Thursday
On Thursday, May 14, Rathje Construction will begin the 2026 portion of the 1st Avenue Reconstruction Project. The project includes reconstruction of 1st Avenue from 19th Street to 22nd Street, as well as reconstruction of 22nd Street from 1st Avenue to 3rd Avenue. During construction, 1st Avenue will be closed to traffic from 19th Street to 22nd Street. The intersection of 1st Avenue and 22nd Street will remain open at this time, and an update will be provided when the closure is expected. This work is expected to last five months, weather permitting.
Migratory Bird and Arbor Day Celebration Happening on Saturday
Marion’s Migratory Bird and Arbor Day Celebration is planned for this Saturday, May 9, at Thomas Park from Noon to 3 p.m. This popular event will provide resources to help keep birds, our community and the environment healthy and thriving. Activities include guided bird hikes, a tree-climbing demonstration, a goat grazing demo, a live raptor presentation, informational displays, nature-themed gifts and gear for sale and make-and-take crafts. Visit https://www.cityofmarion.org/birdfriendly for the full schedule of events.
5K4K9 Fun Run/Walk Happening on Saturday
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 9, 2026, for the return of the 5K4K9 fun run/walk hosted by the Marion Police Department (MPD). The family-friendly community event will be held at Linn-Mar High School and include bounce houses, a kids' fun run and the 5K event. Be sure to stick around to see the MPD K9s and their handlers in action. Event activities start at 9 a.m. The cost is $35 for those running/walking the 5K and $25 for those participating in the kids' fun run. Register online at www.cityofmarion.org/5K4K9.
Stormwater Open House Happening May 11
A public open house is being held on Monday, May 11, to share updates regarding Marion’s stormwater master plan project. The open house will be from 4:30-6 p.m. at the Marion Public Works Facility, 202 44th Street. Representatives from the City and its engineering consultant will be on hand to answer questions. There is no formal presentation planned, so residents can come and go as they please.
Marion Arts Festival Road Closures
The Marion Arts Festival returns to Uptown Marion next weekend. Seventh Avenue between 10th and 12th Streets will close at 6:30 a.m. on Friday, May 15, for vendor move-in and will remain closed until 9 p.m. on Saturday. Detours will be posted. In addition, rolling road closures will be in place for the Marion Arts Festival half marathon and 5K races that begin at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 16. Thank you for your patience and understanding during these closures.
Great American Kites Returns to Lowe Park Ball Diamonds
Great American Kites, sponsored by Summit Pointe Senior Living, will return to Marion on Saturday, May 16. Kites will fly over the PeeWee Diamonds at Lowe Park between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This come-and-go event features displays that provide lasting memories for attendees of all ages. Easy access to the event is available from 4401 Irish Drive and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for open lawn seating.
Apply to Join a Board or Commission
Do you want to provide input on City policies and help shape our city and its government? Apply to be one of 100+ volunteers who serve on Marion boards and commissions. There are openings on the Civil Service Commission, Civil Rights Commission, Construction Code Review Board, Park Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment. To be considered, please submit an online application.
Word on the Street
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What are the black squares at the intersection of 35th Avenue and 35th Street?The City frequently uses classifiers to measure traffic patterns including the number of vehicles at various times of day, their speed, the type of vehicle and other details for traffic studies. This data is then used to determine if there is a need for changes in speed, stop signs, yield signs, roundabouts, traffic signals and more. The black square is the remnant of the glue used with the classifier. Residents may see the classifiers, including other types of measurement devices, in other parts of the city as we work to collect data for various traffic related reasons.
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Where will the mobile traffic camera be stationed next week?Between May 4-8, the mobile speed enforcement vehicle will be located in the 2800 block of 10th Avenue. Between May 10-14, the mobile speed enforcement vehicle will be located in the 1400 block of 10th Street, southbound.
Upcoming Events
Here’s a look at what’s happening in Marion:
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Saturday, May 9 – Marion Farmers Market and City Council Office Hours – 8-11 a.m. – Willowood Park
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Saturday, May 9 – Linn County Master Gardeners Plant Sale – 8 a.m.- noon – Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
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Saturday, May 9 – 5K4K9 fun run/walk – 9-11 a.m. – Linn-Mar High School
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Saturday, May 9 – Migratory Bird & Arbor Day Celebration – Noon - 3 p.m. – Thomas Park
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Monday, May 11 – Stormwater Master Plan Open House – 4:30-6 p.m. – Marion Public Works Facility
Future Council Items
Here’s an overview of several items that will be coming before the City Council in the weeks ahead.
On the Docket
The following are a few of the major activities on my calendar for the coming week:
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Internal meetings
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Monthly check-in with Linn-Mar & Marion Independent school districts
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Drake Leading Others Alumni Panel guest speaker
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