Dubuque Park & Recreation Commission support Chaplain Schmitt Island development plan

The Dubuque Parks & Recreation Commission lent unanimous support this week to a development plan for Chaplain Schmitt Island, reversing the board’s opposition from October. Commission Members Robin Kennicker and Lori Ollendick said their earlier reluctance to recommend the plan to the City Council was based on concerns the public had not been given enough chance to participate in the plan, which aims to help guide the future of the 236-acre publicly owned island. In November, the city and DRA jointly held an information session for the public and extended a comment period, which Ollendick said satisfied her concerns. The development plan calls for shifting American Marine marina offices, a “river-themed destination playground,” an outdoor skating rink and splash pad, and an expansion on the ImOn Arena. The plan is expected to come before the council for approval at a future meeting.