|
|
Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.
 Neighborhood News is a quarterly newsletter from the City of Iowa City's Neighborhood Outreach Program, highlighting the great work of neighborhood associations and the people who live there. Each issue shares stories, projects, and initiatives that encourage community engagement and bring people together through collaboration.
For more than 30 years, the Neighborhood Outreach Program has strengthened Iowa City’s neighborhoods by supporting programs, events, and projects that matter to residents and enhance the quality of life in our community.
Please share this information with your neighbors, family, and friends. If you are reading as a non-subscriber, visit our subscription page to sign up for future editions.
What's in this Quarter's Issue:
-
Neighborhood Stories: Highlights of inspiring neighborhood initiatives and projects.
-
Upcoming Events: Save the date for opportunities to connect with the community.
-
Grant Opportunities: Information about available grants.
-
Community Programs: Information about local initiatives, efforts, and programs.
-
City Resources: Important updates and services available to residents.
|
|
Wonderful Westside invests in community leadership
Each week this summer, neighbors in the Wonderful Westside Neighborhood have gathered for leadership training by turning the Pheasant Ridge Neighborhood Center into a space of learning, collaboration, and shared purpose. Around 25 residents, including parents, high schoolers, and college students, came together to exchange ideas and build the skills needed to shape the future of their community.
From the start, inclusion has been a priority in the Wonderful Westside. Arabic translation has been thoughtfully provided so that language is never a barrier, reinforcing the neighborhood’s commitment to accessibility and connection.
Together, this group is laying the foundation for a stronger, more connected neighborhood.
|
Miller Orchard launches neighborhood garden project
This summer, the Miller Orchard Neighborhood Association took the first step toward a greener, more connected community with the launch of the Miller Orchard Gardens, a project supported by Iowa City’s Parks and Recreation Department. A raised bed garden, now thriving with tomatoes, basil, and other produce, was installed at Benton Hill Park, inviting neighbors to imagine the possibilities for their own yards. As part of the next phase, residents can partner with experienced gardeners through Prairie Hill Cohousing to build and grow plants using their own planters at home.
The project blends food access and community building, offering both literal and figurative seeds of connection.
|
Northside champions trees
On Arbor Day, April 25, the Northside Neighborhood Association partnered with Heritage Trees of Johnson County and the City’s Forestry Division to plant more than 40 trees at Oakland Cemetery.
Following a proclamation and community gathering, Northsiders rolled up their sleeves to help plant Hackberries, Oaks, and other native species. With guidance from Parks and Recreation staff, the effort highlighted the neighborhood’s commitment to urban forestry and stewardship of public green spaces.
|
A sunny start to summer in Manville Heights
More than 150 neighbors gathered on June 22 to celebrate the official start of summer at the Manville Heights Neighborhood Association’s potluck party.
Neighbors enjoyed homemade dishes and summer treats while bikes, chalk art, and friendly pickleball matches added to the fun and energy of the afternoon. To encourage neighbors to mingle beyond familiar faces, each guest wore a color-coded nametag representing six zones of the neighborhood and offering a playful way to connect across streets. The Iowa City Climate Action team pitched in by handing out cooling towels, helping folks stay refreshed under the summer sun.
The event brought new faces and longtime residents together for a memorable afternoon of connection and celebration.
|
Scavenger hunt sparks adventure in Manville Heights
In July, two of Manville Heights Neighborhood Association’s younger neighbors organized a whimsical scavenger hunt featuring the neighborhood’s 13 Little Free Libraries. Participants followed a trail of clever clues tucked inside the libraries, turning a stroll through the neighborhood into a mystery-solving adventure. One parent shared, “The kids love how it feels like Harry Potter notes — it’s fun to figure out the clues!”
As an added bonus, the teenage masterminds behind the hunt also launched and continue to maintain the neighborhood association's Instagram account, bringing even more creative energy to the community.
|
Morningside-Glendale explores edible landscapes
On July 1 and 2, the Morningside-Glendale Neighborhood Association hosted yard tours focused on edible landscapes. Neighbors discovered which fruit trees and berry bushes thrive in Iowa City and sampled fresh produce along the way. The tours also sparked ideas and conversations that are helping shape plans for a new orchard in Glendale Park next spring.
The event created an inviting space for learning and collaboration, offering neighbors a place to exchange knowledge, build connections, and imagine what’s possible.
|
Honoring neighborhood heritage in Lucas Farms
From July 18–20, the Lucas Farms Neighborhood Association marked a special milestone — the 10th anniversary of its beloved History Days celebration.
Organizers invited neighbors and visitors to explore the neighborhood’s rich past through walking tours featuring stories of early residents, railroad roots, Moffitt homes, and local art history. The weekend also brought the neighborhood together with family-friendly fun: a lively block party, live music, food trucks, and even a petting zoo.
History Days continues to be a joyful way for the Lucas Farms community to honor its heritage while creating new memories together.
|
Wylde-Weeber's cookout brings community
More than 60 neighbors came together to celebrate Independence Day at the Wylde-Weeber Neighborhood Association’s annual Fourth of July Cookout.
With neighbors behind the grill and others contributing side dishes, the cookout came together as a festive, potluck-style meal. Between bites, attendees enjoyed classic yard games and joined a gift card walk, which added a fun element of friendly competition.
With warm weather and a strong turnout, the event offered an opportunity for neighbors to connect, relax, and celebrate together.
|
College Hill's two-decade tree project
The College Hill Neighborhood Association is offering free, locally grown tree seedlings to help expand the urban canopy. This year’s selection includes a variety of native oaks and hickories such as Northern Red, Scarlett, Shingle, Chinkapin, Shagbark, and Shellbark, as well as Hazelwood bushes.
For over 20 years, College Hill residents have been dedicated to nurturing native trees, restoring green spaces affected by past storms, and enriching the neighborhood with healthy, homegrown trees. This free program continues that tradition and invites neighbors to help grow a greener, more vibrant community.
Planting tips are available to help seedlings thrive. To request trees or learn more, contact Jim Walters at jcmwalt@infionline.net.
|
Northside builds connections with Neighbor-to-Neighbor Guide
Supporting neighborhood self-reliance while strengthening community ties, the Northside Neighborhood Association’s Neighbor-to-Neighbor Resource Guide makes it easier than ever for residents to share skills and lend a hand.
Featuring 20 service categories, from pet sitting and yardwork to tech support and home projects, the guide connects neighbors who need help with those nearby willing to assist, whether for free, a reasonable fee, or through bartering. Recently, one neighbor refreshed their landscaping and cleared shrubbery with the help of someone just blocks away.
Compiled through mail and online surveys in late 2024, the guide reflects a community committed to collaboration and care.
|
|
|
A century of community
Manville Heights Neighborhood Association will celebrate over 100 years of rich history during their Centennial Celebration from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025. The outdoor event will take place on the 300 and 400 blocks of Magowan Avenue between River Street and Park Road.
Enjoy live music, explore historical exhibits from the Johnson County Historical Society, and take part in family-friendly games, crafts, and a neighborhood scavenger hunt. Local food trucks will also be on site to add to the festive atmosphere.
Gather in Galway Hills
The Galway Hills Neighborhood Association will host a neighborhood gathering from 6 to 8 p.m., on Saturday, Aug. 16, at 570 Dublin Drive. The evening will feature food, entertainment, activities, and food trucks, offering a great opportunity to enjoy the summer and connect with neighbors.
Coffee, community, and connection at Longfellow’s Sunday Socials
Join the Longfellow Neighborhood Association for their monthly 3rd Sunday Socials, held from 10 a.m. to noon at the Longfellow Elementary Playground. The next gathering is Sunday, Aug. 17.
Come enjoy free coffee, pastries, and the chance to connect with neighbors. Please bring a mug, a chair, and a snack or drink to share if you’d like. All ages are welcome!
Monthly meetups spark new energy in Creekside
The newly re-energized Creekside Neighborhood Association invites you to join their new monthly tradition called Creekside Sundays. On the first Sunday of each month from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at McPherson Park, neighbors come together to socialize, play, share ideas, and strengthen community ties.
These gatherings offer a welcoming space to connect, build relationships, and support one another. The next gathering is Sunday, Sept. 7.
Sunday connections in Manville Heights
The Manville Heights Neighborhood Association hosts recurring evening meetups at the Lincoln Elementary playground. Held on the first Sunday of the month at 6:30 p.m., these regular gatherings offer a steady rhythm for connection, conversation, and community-building. The next gathering is Sunday, Sept. 7.
|
|
 Building safer neighborhoods at National Night Out
On Tuesday, Aug. 5, National Night Out invites neighbors and public safety representatives to come together for an evening of connection, fun, and community building. It’s a chance to strengthen relationships that help keep neighborhoods safe, while enjoying food, music, and activities for all ages.
This year, two celebrations will be held in Iowa City: one at Wetherby Park, hosted by the Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County from 5:30 to 8 p.m., and another at Christ the King Lutheran Church, located on the west side of Iowa City, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Families can stop by to meet local police officers and firefighters, check out squad cars and fire trucks, and enjoy a night of unity and celebration.
Arts & crafts supplies pop-up exchange
Exchange gently-used art, craft, and school supplies to keep quality materials in use and out of the landfill. Donate materials August 7 and 8, and pick up free supplies August 9 and 10 at the East Side Recycling Center’s Environmental Education Center (2401 Scott Blvd SE).
For full details on donation and pick-up times and a list of accepted items, visit the Art and Craft Supplies Pop-up Event information page.
Get ready for school with free supplies and services
Ready, Set, School helps local K–12 students start the school year confident and prepared! Families can schedule appointments to pick up free backpacks and supplies, get dental and eye exams, vaccines, and even haircuts on August 15 and 16 at the Johnson County Fairgrounds. Learn more and sign up at www.unitedwayjwc.org/backtoschool.
The event is made possible through a partnership between United Way, The Salvation Army, Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Iowa City Citywide Garage Sales
The Fall 2025 Iowa City Citywide Garage Sales are set for Sept. 5 and 6. This fun, low-cost event helps keep usable items out of landfills while bringing neighbors together.
Whether you’re ready to declutter or just love a good bargain, now’s the time to get involved. Sign-ups to host are open through Sept. 2, and the full list of sales will be posted by Sept. 5. Visit the Iowa City Citywide Garage Sales Facebook page to sign up or explore the listings.
Welcoming Week 2025
From Sept. 12 – 21, 2025, organizations across Johnson County will host events in honor of Welcoming Week — a nationwide celebration that highlights efforts to build more inclusive communities for all, including immigrants and refugees. Local events will feature immigrant-owned businesses, cultural groups, and community organizations that share how they help make Iowa City a more welcoming place. A full schedule will be available at www.welcomeicarea.org.
Spotlight: Welcome Weekend
Kicking things off, the Eastside Neighborhood Association is partnering with Iowa City Compassion and the Church of the Nazarene to host a weekend of events rooted in connection and creativity. Festivities begin on Friday, Sept. 12, with Eastside Rock the Block, a block party in the Towncrest area from 5 to 7 p.m. featuring tabling, music, and immigrant-led storytelling. Activities continue through the weekend with neighborhood yard sales on Saturday and an Intercultural Festival and Picnic at Mercer Park from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 14.
|
|
|
Support for events that celebrate culture and connection
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission offers sponsorships for local events that build understanding and bring people together, supporting efforts to reduce cultural, religious, or other intergroup tensions. Each year, $2,000 is budgeted to fund community events, with up to $250 available per event and per organizer. For more details and to apply, visit www.icgov.org/humanrights.
Insulation Grant
Income-qualified homeowners can cover the cost of increasing insulation and air-sealing in their homes through this grant. Through this program, the City pays contractors directly, eliminating the need for reimbursement. Grants cover up to $5,000 per project, with homeowners responsible for any costs beyond that. Grants are available until funds are exhausted. For more details and to apply, visit www.icgov.org/climateaction.
Root for Trees
Residents can receive help planting new trees and adding more greenery to their yards. Vouchers cover 50% of the retail cost of one tree, with up to $125 in savings available. Additional discounts may be available for income-eligible households. Learn more at icgov.org/Root4Trees.
|
|
 Want to be a better neighbor but not sure where to start?
Community development specialist David Burton has built a movement around “neighboring,” simple, everyday actions that build trust and connection right where you live. His blog, We Are Neighbors, offers inspiration, how-to tips, and real-life stories that will make you rethink what it means to know the people next door.
Explore his resources at engagedneighbor.com and read his blog at we-are-neighbors.blogspot.com.
 Sculpture blends art and function
On June 19, the community gathered to unveil “Uplift,” a 12-foot-tall orange sculpture that doubles as a unique bus stop bench along Lakeside Drive near Fairmeadows Park.
Commissioned by the Iowa City Public Art Advisory Committee in collaboration with the South District Neighborhood Association, the project paired artist mentor Raymond Michels with emerging artist Ethan Wyatt, offering hands-on experience in large-scale public art.
The ribbon cutting took place during Parks and Recreation’s Party in the Park event, adding to the celebration. Artist Ethan Wyatt shared, “So many came together to make it happen… My hope is that this piece continues to uplift the spirits of the community for years to come."
 Climate Fest
Iowa City’s 6th annual Climate Fest, taking place September 19–25, 2025, celebrates the many ways our community takes action on climate change. From film screenings and electric vehicle showcases to solar tours and pop-up parks, each day features a unique event that highlights local solutions and inspires action. Free bus routes serve all events, making it easy to join in.
View the full schedule at www.icgov.org/climatefest.
|
 Iowa City’s Farmers Market gets recognized through song
Iowa City resident Benj Upchurch turned his love for the Farmers Market into a cheerful, puppet-led sing-along, brought to life by the City’s Communications team. From produce and handmade goods to live music and community connection, the song captures everything that makes Saturday mornings at the Market special.
Watch the full sing-along on YouTube!
The Iowa City Farmers Market takes place Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to noon inside the Chauncey Swan Parking Ramp, through the last Saturday in October.
 Hot grill tips from Grillbert 9000
Meet Grillbert 9000 — the world’s most serious (and slightly dramatic) BBQ Bot. In this short video series, Grillbert delivers life-saving grilling tips with deadpan precision, helping backyard chefs stay out of trouble, and out of the emergency room. Fast, funny, and full of fire-prevention wisdom, each 1-minute episode is a must-watch before you fire up the grill.
Watch the full Grillbert 9000 grilling safety video series on YouTube!
 Register for fall recreation
The Fall Rec Guide is now available online at www.icgov.org/recreation. Check out the great recreation opportunities that our Parks and Recreation team will be offering in the upcoming months.
|
|
 Request a speed trailer
Worried about speeding in your neighborhood? You can request a mobile speed trailer from the Iowa City Police Department by submitting a request through ICGovXpress. These trailers help raise awareness and encourage safer driving. Please note that with only two available, demand is high, and response time may be delayed.
Watch for pedestrians
As University of Iowa students return, City streets will be buzzing with more drivers and pedestrians. Please stay alert at intersections, especially in and around Downtown. Drivers—watch for foot traffic. Pedestrians—look both ways and avoid assuming vehicles will stop. Let’s work together to keep everyone safe.
 Help firefighters help you
The Iowa City Fire Department has partnered with Community Connect, a free platform that lets residents and business owners share key information to help firefighters better protect people and property. By creating a profile, you can include details like emergency contacts, garage codes, pets in the home, and any special needs. This info helps firefighters respond more efficiently in emergencies. Sign up for free at www.communityconnect.io/info/ia-iowacity.
Report issues easily with ICGovXpress!
Got a question, suggestion, or complaint for the City? ICGovXpress makes it easy! Whether it’s potholes, tree limbs blocking the road, a complaint about a neighbor’s tall grass, or even seeking clarity on a City policy, just visit www.icgov.org/report to let City staff know. The app is also available for your iPhone or Android device and can be found in the app store by searching “ICgovXpress.” You can even make reports anonymously! It’s a quick and efficient way to get things resolved, and many issues are addressed within just a few days.
Get the latest news
Stay in the loop by signing up for E-subscriptions at icgov.org/subscribe. Receive the latest updates on everything from road closures and construction to news from various boards, commissions, and committees. There’s always something happening in Iowa City, so subscribing keeps you informed on important news and events!
How to file a Complaint of Discrimination
Many situations that are unpleasant or upsetting may not qualify as unlawful discrimination. The key question is, "Was this because of a protected class you belong to?" Protected classes are characteristics we cannot change or shouldn’t be asked to change. If you believe you’ve experienced discrimination based on any protected class, including age, race, gender identity, disability, and more, you can file a complaint within 300 days of the incident. Complaints can be filed for issues in employment, housing, public accommodations, education, and credit. To file, visit www.icgov.org/humanrights, email humanrights@iowa-city.org for a complaint form, or call 319-356-5015 for assistance.
|
|
 This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase recent projects, celebrate community efforts, and share inspiring stories happening across Iowa City's neighborhoods. Selected submissions will be featured in our next quarter's publication!
Submit stories about:
-
Community Collaborations: Stories of partnerships that have benefited specific neighborhoods.
-
Neighbor-Led Initiatives: Creative efforts like neighborhood art or community gardens.
-
Upcoming Events: Announcements of events, activities, or meetings to share.
-
PIN Grant Projects: Updates on funded projects and their impact.
How to submit:
-
Write-Up: A short description (100-200 words) including the who, what, when, where, and why.
-
Photos: Include photos that capture the essence of the story.
-
Submit: Send stories and photos to EngageIC@iowa-city.org.
|
|
|
|
|
