Jasper County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Jeff Davidson says the 28E Newton Rail Park Agreement just approved by the County and the City of Newton is designed to speed up development projects in the 367-acre industrial park. Davidson says that’s vital when competing for projects in central Iowa.

“One of the things we have been trying to do, and the rail park is part of that effort, is to increase our competitive position inside the Central Iowa Metro. Increase our speed to market when we are dealing with someone.”

Davidson says the 28E includes information on how the county and the city are going to handle development proposals, the design, financing, and construction of infrastructure improvements, annexations, and other issues related to potential development projects. He adds the ultimate goal of the Newton Rail Park is to create jobs and increase the county’s property tax base. 

The Newton Rail Park is a $10 million public-private partnership between Jasper County and the Iowa Interstate Railroad, and includes the railroad’s full service rail terminal and land within unincorporated Jasper County and Newton’s City Limits.