Lake Darling State Park was officially rededicated Wednesday. The ceremony came 64 years after the formal setting of the dam gate held on September 17th, 1950 that allowed Lake Darling to begin impounding water.

The rededication was attended by a number of individuals who were instrumental in the financing and execution of the park’s renovation. It was also attended by officials on the state and local level who discussed the economic impact of the restoration project and how it sets an example for other communities who want to pursue a similar undertaking.

Between the new dam, renovated lake, campground improvements, new lodge and cabins, roughly $16 million has been spent on the park since the effort began 15 years ago. An Iowa State University Center for Ag & Rural Development study projected that visitors to the state park will spend approximately $8.5 million in the area annually.

For more photos from the event visit KCII Radio’s Facebook page.

To listen to Wednesday’s program, follow this link.