A new multi-sport recreational facility has opened in Keosauqua, giving residents and visitors a new destination for outdoor recreation on the banks of the Des Moines River. The 1st Street Courts officially opened on Saturday, July 11th.
The facility currently features two pickleball courts, though only one is available for use at this time, with additional courts for tennis, basketball, and bocce ball planned as part of the full project vision.
The project was spearheaded by Dr. Matt Manning and Engage Keosauqua, a local nonprofit focused on community development in Keosauqua and Van Buren County. The total project cost is $481,761, with a significant portion of funding secured through a $144,000 Community Attraction and Tourism grant awarded by the Iowa Economic Development Authority in August 2025. The CAT program provides financial assistance to Iowa communities for the construction of recreational, cultural, educational, or entertainment facilities that enhance quality of life.
Additional funding came from multiple sources, including a grant from Aureon — a company formed by and still owned by more than 120 independent Iowa telephone companies — awarded through the Iowa Area Development Group. The Keosauqua Rotary Club also played a role in connecting the project with funding partners, and the community rallied around the effort through fundraising events including a trivia night hosted by the Van Buren County High School National Honor Society and Quiz Bowl team in April 2025, which raised money specifically for the courts project.
The 1st Street Courts are open to the public and free to use, giving Keosauqua and Van Buren County residents something of their own — a place to enjoy pickleball, tennis, basketball, and bocce ball without having to travel to larger nearby communities.
