Vision Atlantic Spearheads $75 Million Economic Development Project

(Atlantic) Vision Atlantic, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is driving economic development in three areas: housing, childcare, and quality-of-life enhancements.

The late Bob Camblin is a co-founder and honorary board member. Christina Bateman, president of the seven-member Vision Atlantic Board, stated, “Our mission is to empower growth, enhance lives, and create a thriving community together. We’re poised to transform Atlantic for generations to come.”

Bateman says that after thorough research with community partners over recent years, Vision Atlantic has identified three critical areas for stabilizing and enhancing Atlantic’s population: expanding housing, childcare facilities, and amenities. Collaborative efforts with community stakeholders, generous donors, and foundational support channel an estimated $75.5 million into these vital projects. This includes $48 million for new housing, $11.5 million for a state-of-the-art childcare center, and $16 million for expanding the current YMCA facility. Bateman says the project will include 144 new housing units, a child development center housing 300 children, and expansion to the existing Nishna Valley Family YMCA to enhance quality of life amenities.

Contributions towards a $30 million fundraising goal have been robust, with over $7.6 million pledged by local donors. The Charles E. Lakin Foundation has committed a remarkable $8.6 million, significantly supporting the childcare center and YMCA expansion. An additional transformative pledge of $23 million from the Foundation will be the catalyst, igniting the community’s rapid new housing development.

Steve Wild, President of the Charles E. Lakin Foundation, remarked, “Atlantic isn’t just waiting for a brighter future; they’re building it. Our investment and Vision Atlantic’s bold leadership are the catalysts propelling this community into an era of prosperity.”

Bateman expressed deep gratitude: “We are extremely grateful to the Charles E. Lakin Foundation and all our local businesses and residents who have already committed financial support to help make this once-in-a-lifetime project a reality.”

Under the leadership of President Christina Bateman, Vice-President Nick Hunt, Secretary Melissa Ihnen, Treasurer Debbie Waterbury, and directors Keith Harlan, Jessie Shiels, and Liz Hunt-Reid, Vision Atlantic has established a project committee. This team of community leaders has worked diligently over the past year to bring this project to fruition.

The committee chairs include Christina Bateman, Dan Haynes, Nick Hunt, Paul Gude, Duane Acker, Bailey Smith, Bob Sharp, Keith Harlan, Liz Hunt-Reid, Billie Hoover, Debbie Waterbury, Ted Robinson, Brad Henningsen, Jill Euken, Ardith Gillepsie, Dianna Williams, Jackie Sampson, and Nick Zimmer.

The committee is currently looking for volunteers to join this transformative project. If you are interested in contributing to Atlantic’s growth and development, please contact Christina Bateman at visionatlanticiowa@gmail.com. Your involvement can make a significant difference.

Vision Atlantic remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing a vibrant future for Atlantic, fostering a community where economic growth and quality of life go hand in hand.