Officials with the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) today (Thursday), announced Downtown Revitalization funds totaling $3.5 million are being awarded to seven Iowa communities.  The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are to be used for the rehabilitation of a total of 144 downtown buildings in Burlington, Charles City, Conrad, Elkader, Emmetsburg, Manning and West Union.  The federally-funded grants were awarded for façade master plan projects for downtown businesses. 

In a Press Release, Governor Terry Branstad said “The Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Downtown Revitalization Program is transforming downtowns and improving the business climate and quality of life for residents across the state.  Not only are these funds leveraging private investment and improving physical conditions, but participating communities are seeing new businesses and job creation on Iowa’s Main Streets.” Branstad said the seven communities have created local public-private partnerships “That are making great things happen for their residents and all Iowans to enjoy.”

To date, the CDBG Downtown Revitalization Program has supported 19 community revitalization strategies.  When complete, these 19 projects will lead to the rehabilitation of 347 downtown properties.  The grants are awarded based on the potential impact of the project, the project being part of a comprehensive downtown revitalization strategy, commitment of local resources, and the ability to demonstrate revitalization will continue to move forward following project completion. The Community Development Block Grant program is federally-funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). IEDA is responsible for administering the CDBG funds in the non-metropolitan areas of the state. Applications are solicited annually, usually during the fall.