MUSCATINE, Iowa – Sixteen innovative community projects began the journey for the Iowa League of Cities People’s All‑Star Community Award. After two rounds of public voting, the field has narrowed to the Final Four, and Muscatine’s Musco Sports Center has officially advanced to the semifinals.
Muscatine joins semifinalists from Cascade, Toledo, and Bettendorf. The project in each matchup that receives the most Facebook “likes” will move on to the finals. Final Four voting ends September 11.
The People’s All‑Star Community Award highlights creative, impactful local government projects across Iowa, with the winner determined entirely by public voting on social media.
Semifinal matchups
People are also reading…
- Muscatine’s Musco Sports Center vs. Cascade’s Next Chapter (new library project)
- Bettendorf’s Landing Water Park & Ice Rink vs. Toledo’s Iowa Juvenile Home Campus Transformation (new elite learning center for South Tama County Middle School)
How to vote
Community support is crucial. Residents, partners, and supporters can help Muscatine reach the finals by liking the Musco Sports Center project photo in the semifinal album on the Iowa League of Cities Facebook page. Every “like” counts as a vote.
Voting timeline
- Final Four voting: Ends September 11
- Final voting: Begins September 14
- Winner announced: During the League’s Annual Conference & Exhibit in September
About the Musco Sports Center
The Musco Sports Center is one of Muscatine’s most significant community investments in recent decades. For years, winter weather shortened seasons, limited training opportunities, and forced families to travel long distances for indoor facilities. The Musco Sports Center was built to change that.
At 122,000 square feet, it is the largest inflatable sports facility in Iowa and provides year‑round access to high‑quality athletic and recreational space. The center features:
- A full‑size turf field for football, soccer, baseball, and softball
- Dedicated pickleball and court‑based activity areas
- Flexible open space for tournaments, expos, car shows, quilt shows, and large community events
“The Musco Sports Center is more than a building — it’s a promise to our community, our families, and our future,” said Nick Gow, Muscatine Parks & Recreation Director. “This facility gives our young athletes the opportunities they deserve, keeps activities local, and opens the door for new events and visitors. We’re proud of what it represents for Muscatine, and we hope the community rallies behind it in this competition.”
The center strengthens Muscatine’s sports infrastructure, supports economic growth, and reflects the community’s commitment to youth development and long‑term quality of life.
The City of Muscatine encourages everyone to participate by visiting the Iowa League of Cities Facebook page, locating the photo of the Musco Sports Dome interior, and clicking “like.” Each vote helps Muscatine advance toward the title of 2026 People’s All‑Star Community Award.
