What is the Swisher Tract?
The Swisher Tract is the largest green space within our City, consisting of 9.3 acres. You can see it outlined on the picture. It is north of Sunset and Golfview, west of the railroad tracks, and east of the woods owned by the University of Iowa, between the University Athletic Club and the Finkbine Commuter Lot.
It is home to deer, wild turkey, and other native fauna and flora.
Why does it matter?
The Swisher Tract is held in a trust. It has been protected from development by the wishes of the prior trustees, Ruth (mother) and Paul (son) Swisher.
The trustee just changed from Paul to a Bank's Trust department.
The Swisher Tract will be auctioned on June 14, 2018. This means the Swisher Tract could be eyed by developers as a potential investment.
I would like to preserve the Swisher Tract as a green space and make it a place our residents can explore and enjoy, with trails, and other outdoor amenities.
How can we keep the Swisher Tract as green space?
I propose that the City purchase the Swisher Tract using hotel revenue (we may have to bond for a small amount). We can then add outdoor amenities, such as trails and a dog park, to make it easier for residents to enjoy nature. We could also relocate the historical home in the hotel's property to the Swisher Tract.