MUSCATINE, Iowa – National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods across the U.S. safer and more caring places to live.
This year the Muscatine Police Department will be a part of the national celebration and will host its first ever event from 6-9 p.m. Tuesday (Aug. 1) at Taylor Park and Franklin School in Muscatine’s south end.
Please note that as part of the festivities, Taylor Street will be closed to traffic from Schiller Street to the intersection of Franklin and Evans streets from 4-10 p.m. Tuesday (Aug. 1).
“It (National Night Out) provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances,” Police Officer Ryan Buss, who has been in charge of organizing the event, said in an interview with the Muscatine Journal. “We hope to build lasting partnerships with the community we serve and allow them to see a different side of the law enforcement officials in their city.”
Taylor Park has recently been upgraded with the addition of pickleball courts, a splash pad, new playground equipment, and a new shelter. The beautiful new location is just across Taylor Street from Franklin School.
Those attending the event will have the opportunity to enjoy music, bounce houses, games, STEM tents (provided by local businesses) and food provided by Hy-Vee Market Grille. Hawaiian shaved ice will also be available for those wanting to cool down with a sweet treat.
Other events at the National Night Out include K-9 Unit demonstrations as well as the chance to see emergency vehicles up close. There will also be a bike rodeo where participants can receive a new helmet and enter a bicycle raffle.
The City of Muscatine and Keep Muscatine Beautiful are co-sponsoring this family friendly event that will be held in Taylor Park along with the parking lot and green space at Franklin School, and Taylor Street.