(Atlantic) The Camblin Hills Development Ground Breaking ceremony drew a crowd of around 160 people, on Wednesday afternoon at the housing development site. Vision Atlantic is investing $4.1 million in infrastructure, $48.8 million in housing, and $10.7 million in a 300-capacity childhood development center on 49 acres on the south edge of Atlantic.
Vision Atlantic President Christina Bateman, serving as the emcee, stated that the project includes 142 mixed-use units, comprising townhomes, duplexes, single-family homes, tiny homes, and lots for sale, as well as a park and biking and walking trails. The Charles E. Lakin Foundation is providing a substantial $23 million in housing capital, and the development will offer a total financial impact of $48 million on the Atlantic area.
Bateman opened the ceremony by honoring two influential community leaders, the late Don Sonntag and the late Bob Camblin. She highlighted their lasting impact on local economic development, noting that their efforts laid the foundation for many of the community’s current successes.
Bateman said Bob Camblin was a lifelong champion of economic growth in Atlantic, whose leadership, vision, and commitment helped turn bold ideas into reality.
John Hoich, Vice President of the Charles E. Lakin Foundation, appearing at the ceremony, stated that they are a great team to collaborate with and partner with all the donors. It is an excellent day in Atlantic.
Hoich says the most important thing they are trying to stop is the growth of unincorporated cities.
Donna Dostal from the Community Foundation for Western Iowa spoke, along with Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development.
Bateman expressed gratitude to the Comes Family for their willingness to sell the land, which made the development possible, and to the City of Atlantic for donating the land to Vision Atlantic. She also recognized Snyder and Associates for their vision and expertise in planning the neighborhood. Bateman thanked the 70 volunteers who contributed to the project, as well as the many donors who recognized the impact and potential it holds for the community. She extended special thanks to lead donor First Whitney Bank for its $2.5 million contribution, describing it as a decisive vote of confidence in the community and the people who call it home.
Click the soundbar below to listen to the entire ceremony
