LYON COUNTY, Iowa (KCAU) — A Siouxland county will be working with the University of Iowa to support a long-term vision for growth and regional collaboration.
On Monday, August 18, Lyon County announced its partnership with the University of Iowa. More than 100 University of Iowa students, staff, and faculty will work with Lyon County to develop helpful ideas and advice to benefit the county.
“We’re excited to work alongside University of Iowa students and faculty as we explore new ideas and solutions for our communities,” said Jen Smit, Lyon County Economic Development Director. “This partnership allows us to build on the momentum already happening across Lyon County with deliverables that will help guide future investments and strengthen our region.”
Lyon County was selected as an Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities (IISC) for the 2026-27 academic year, during which graduate and advanced undergraduate student teams provide more than 10,000 hours of professional service.
Projects in Lyon County will include the following:
- George Skunk Creek Flood Mitigation and Stormwater Management
- George Trail Art
- Housing Needs Assessment
- Inwood Subdivision Site Development
- Larchwood Community Center Adaptive Reuse
- Lester Senior Housing
- Regional Trail Connections
“We are grateful for this collaboration in northwest Iowa, the furthest we have traveled for an IISC partnership,” said Travis Kraus, IISC director and professor in the University of Iowa School of Planning & Public Affairs. “Working with Lyon County gives students valuable professional experience while helping local leaders advance projects that support economic development, recreation, and community vitality.”
The partnership between the University of Iowa and Lyon County will begin on Saturday, August 29, with a community visit.
You can find the full project list by clicking here. The release states that additional projects may be added throughout the academic year.