March 29, 2024

Project Fastpitch aligns with Newton comprehensive plan

Planning & Zoning Commission determine softball complex is consistent with city goals

Members of the Planning and Zoning Commission determined the development of Project Fastpitch — a 16-field, indoor and outdoor softball complex sequestered between Interstate 80 and Iowa Speedway — and its adjoining urban renewal area are consistent with the City of Newton’s comprehensive plan.

Also known as Newton’s Future, the city’s comprehensive plan was first adopted in 2012 and serves as a guideline for strategic approaches to “improving and leveraging Newton’s strengths” in order to develop a vision for its future.

Announced last week, Project Fastpitch is an estimated $32 million tournament-style softball facility expected to be equipped with artificial fields and state-of-the-art equipment to enhance viewing and playing experiences. Investors claim the attraction will draw approximately 250,000 visitors to Newton each year.

Included in the site plan are four indoor fields and 12 outdoor fields, all of which will meet NCAA standards. Outlots are included in the site plan, which are expected to be utilized by hotel, restaurants and retail store developers. Preliminary discussions with potential buyers are in the works, investors said.

During the commission’s meeting Tuesday evening, city planner Brian Dunkelberger suggested the development of Project Fastpitch:

• Contributes to a diversified and well-balanced local economy by creating job opportunities and strengthening the property tax base.

• Stimulates economy through public action and commitment, private investment, commercial and industrial development and encourages commercial and industrial job retention growth and expansion through the use of various federal, state and local incentives, including tax increment financing.

• Provides more marketable and attractive investment climate.

Dunkelberger identified four strategic objectives staff analyzed that relate to the development of the softball complex, one of which being the growth of Newton’s population — specifically young families.

Development of the district as a whole also provides employment opportunities, improves the city’s curb appeal and increases local shopping options.

“What city staff foresee is that potentially this could prove to be a spark to encourage (future economic developments),” Dunkelberger said.

The land in which Project Fastpitch and the surrounding developments will utilize is zoned as C-T: Tourism Oriented Commercial District. City administrator Matt Muckler told the Newton Daily News in June that particular zoning allows more than just travel- and hospitality-related businesses.

The C-T zone, he said, also accommodates the development of truck stops, restaurants, drive-thru restaurants, recreational facilities and parks, zoos, museums, conference centers, campground and large destination retail businesses, as well as, of course, sports arenas, fields and complexes.

Dana Woody, member of the Planning and Zoning Commission, said, “I work with a gal whose daughters play softball, and they heard about this — her and her husband, they’re coaches and all that — and they are absolutely thrilled over the moon with this project.”

Contact Christopher Braunschweig at 641-792-3121 ext. 6560 or cbraunschweig@newtondailynews.com