The group proposing to create a World Peace Park facing the Mississippi River south of downtown has changed its name to signify that it aspires to more than just another park.
Now it’s the World Peace Village. The seven-acre park would be the centerpiece of a larger redevelopment for Muscatine’s “southend” neighborhood.
“We are passionate about earning the broadest possible participation and support,” said chairperson Tom Emerick, “and that means engaging in a very careful and very public community conversation.”
Interested residents are invited to attend a one-hour question-answer session on Thursday, Nov. 21, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., at the second-floor meeting space in the National Pearl Button Museum at the History and Industry Center.
“Starting at 5:45 we will have a short presentation including display of several exciting concept drawings by Muscatine-native landscape-architect Matt Gordy,” Emerick said.
In October the nonprofit advisory board adopted a mission statement expressing its aim “to build and support a development called World Peace Village, including The World Peace Park on ground commonly known as Carver Corner, with the intent to honor local peace builders and spur economic development through tourism.”
The group established a Peace Tourism Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine.
“We are now able to welcome donations from supporters, in all amounts from as many supporters as possible.” Emerick said.
The World Peace Village Advisory Board includes Lori Carroll, Dan Clark, Tom Emerick, Diana Gradert, Frank Kelly, Dick Maeglin, Ann Meeker, Tom Meeker, Mike Ruby.
Learn more at facebook.com/Muscatine-World-Peace-Park-392530404809360/.
— World Peace Village advisory board
