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Stay informed and engaged with Preservation Iowa’s latest news, events, and initiatives dedicated to preserving the state’s historic places and promoting community revitalization. From advocacy efforts that shape state and local policies to innovative programs supporting historic preservation and economic development, Preservation Iowa is committed to making Iowa’s history a vibrant part of its future.
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PRESERVATION NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STATE
![Main Street Iowa Celebrates 40 Years, Honors Communities and Leaders
Award-Winning Projects, Volunteers and Downtown Initiatives
Recognized Across the State
[photo of The Centennial Block, Jefferson]
May 7, 2026 (West Des Moines, IA) — The Iowa Economic Development Authority’s (IEDA) Main Street Iowa celebrated its 40th anniversary this evening during the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards in West Des Moines, recognizing outstanding efforts to revitalize downtown districts across the state.
Eighteen projects received Main Street Iowa Development Awards, while 45 recipients were recognized with leadership awards for their contributions to local Main Street programs. In addition, a longtime Main Street Iowa employee received the Spirit of Main Street Award.
“Over the past 40 years, Main Street Iowa has grown into one of the strongest and most respected statewide Main Street programs in the country, and that success comes directly from the people doing the work in these communities,” said Debi Durham, director of IEDA and the Iowa Finance Authority. “Local leaders, volunteers and business owners continue to invest in their downtowns and create places where people want to live, work and gather. Tonight’s award winners reflect the creativity, collaboration and commitment that continue to move Iowa communities forward.”
Marion’s Central Plaza was named the recipient of the Signature Project Award, which recognizes projects demonstrating exceptional impact beyond traditional award categories. The project transformed a key block in Uptown Marion into a year-round gathering space featuring an ice-skating loop, live performance area, interactive water features, public art and flexible event amenities.
The project was selected for its measurable impact on downtown vitality, multigenerational and community-driven design, and strong example of collaborative leadership and strategic investment.
The Spirit of Main Street Award was presented to Susan Watson, whose nearly three decades with Main Street Iowa have helped shape and strengthen downtown revitalization efforts across the state. The award is not presented annually and carries no nominations or applications. Instead, it recognizes those whose contributions embody the spirit of the Main Street movement. Throughout her career, Watson has supported communities through grants, events, reporting systems and countless downtown projects behind the scenes. Known for her kindness, calm presence and steady leadership, she has been a trusted resource for Main Street directors across Iowa.
“Celebrating Main Street Iowa’s 40th anniversary at the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards honored the legacy of those who first embraced the Main Street Approach™ while highlighting the successes of today,” said Carol Lilly, Main Street Iowa state coordinator. “The milestone provided an opportunity to reflect on the program’s strong foundation while looking ahead to the future of downtown revitalization across the state. It also underscored the continued momentum of the Main Street movement and the shared commitment to building vibrant, resilient downtowns for generations to come.”
2026 Main Street Iowa Development Award winners:
Albia — Housing (under 5,000 population): Geyer Place Apartments
Albia — Special Event (under 5,000 population): Haunted History Hike, Albia
Burlington — Business Support (over 5,000 population): Block Captain Program
Burlington — Placemaking: Small-Scale Activity (over 5,000 population): Ali in the Alley
Cedar Falls — Housing (over 5,000 population): 122–124 Main St.
Chariton — Placemaking: Small-Scale Activity (under 5,000 population): Grand Lane Pocket Park
Coon Rapids — Business Support (under 5,000 population): American Discovery Trail Town
Coon Rapids — Façade Improvement (under $50,000): Four Twelve Main
Corning — Business Recruitment (under 5,000 population): Adams Community Team Ignites Opportunities Now (ACTION)
Indianola — Special Event (over 5,000 population): Downtown Dough
Jefferson — Building Rehabilitation (under 5,000 population): The Centennial Block
Jefferson — Special Event (under 5,000 population): Barbie by the Bells
Mason City — Placemaking: Comprehensive Effort: River City Riverwalk
Newton — Building Rehabilitation (over 5,000 population): Gray Moon Public Market
Osceola — Façade Improvement (over $50,000): Kerr Dental
Ottumwa — Business Recruitment (over 5,000 population): Vacant Building Window Clings
West Des Moines — Special Event (over 5,000 population): Valley Junction Farmers Market and Music in the Junction
Five communities were also recognized for reaching private investment milestones within their commercial districts:
Albia — $3 million
Avoca — $5 million
Coon Rapids — $2 million
Corning — $20 million
Waverly — $50 million](https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/690347888_1398603208974771_8202910484344165843_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=13d280&_nc_ohc=jkEjBO3Zz8YQ7kNvwHAfjBV&_nc_oc=AdqPDbnIcj_4fFa21XCHvA9PH-9qt6RkWeE61_hM9meSJBO65cDXSWFClSSZHYR9sCw&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&edm=AKIiGfEEAAAA&_nc_gid=q2G_1MSVJyncGI5kj_TdXw&_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQFvQtyNUF1_84hTbd7zqfSYQqDINvitrfybwFM8_AuGeJhQhc-MfhzYlan9l_m8WE76CRwhxBHa&oh=00_Af4rmy5wAHblx8PpI7O1JV5lCSQVmOhJMBGjNzYL5dFALw&oe=6A05637B)
Main Street Iowa Celebrates 40 Years, Honors Communities and Leaders Award-Winning Projects, Volunteers and Downtown Initiatives Recognized Across the State [photo of The Centennial Block, Jefferson] May 7, 2026 (West Des Moines, IA) — The Iowa Economic Development Authority’s (IEDA) Main Street Iowa celebrated its 40th anniversary this evening during the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards in West Des Moines, recognizing outstanding efforts to revitalize downtown districts across the state. Eighteen projects received Main Street Iowa Development Awards, while 45 recipients were recognized with leadership awards for their contributions to local Main Street programs. In addition, a longtime Main Street Iowa employee received the Spirit of Main Street Award. “Over the past 40 years, Main Street Iowa has grown into one of the strongest and most respected statewide Main Street programs in the country, and that success comes directly from the people doing the work in these communities,” said Debi Durham, director of IEDA and the Iowa Finance Authority. “Local leaders, volunteers and business owners continue to invest in their downtowns and create places where people want to live, work and gather. Tonight’s award winners reflect the creativity, collaboration and commitment that continue to move Iowa communities forward.” Marion’s Central Plaza was named the recipient of the Signature Project Award, which recognizes projects demonstrating exceptional impact beyond traditional award categories. The project transformed a key block in Uptown Marion into a year-round gathering space featuring an ice-skating loop, live performance area, interactive water features, public art and flexible event amenities. The project was selected for its measurable impact on downtown vitality, multigenerational and community-driven design, and strong example of collaborative leadership and strategic investment. The Spirit of Main Street Award was presented to Susan Watson, whose nearly three decades with Main Street Iowa have helped shape and strengthen downtown revitalization efforts across the state. The award is not presented annually and carries no nominations or applications. Instead, it recognizes those whose contributions embody the spirit of the Main Street movement. Throughout her career, Watson has supported communities through grants, events, reporting systems and countless downtown projects behind the scenes. Known for her kindness, calm presence and steady leadership, she has been a trusted resource for Main Street directors across Iowa. “Celebrating Main Street Iowa’s 40th anniversary at the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards honored the legacy of those who first embraced the Main Street Approach™ while highlighting the successes of today,” said Carol Lilly, Main Street Iowa state coordinator. “The milestone provided an opportunity to reflect on the program’s strong foundation while looking ahead to the future of downtown revitalization across the state. It also underscored the continued momentum of the Main Street movement and the shared commitment to building vibrant, resilient downtowns for generations to come.” 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Award winners: Albia — Housing (under 5,000 population): Geyer Place Apartments Albia — Special Event (under 5,000 population): Haunted History Hike, Albia Burlington — Business Support (over 5,000 population): Block Captain Program Burlington — Placemaking: Small-Scale Activity (over 5,000 population): Ali in the Alley Cedar Falls — Housing (over 5,000 population): 122–124 Main St. Chariton — Placemaking: Small-Scale Activity (under 5,000 population): Grand Lane Pocket Park Coon Rapids — Business Support (under 5,000 population): American Discovery Trail Town Coon Rapids — Façade Improvement (under $50,000): Four Twelve Main Corning — Business Recruitment (under 5,000 population): Adams Community Team Ignites Opportunities Now (ACTION) Indianola — Special Event (over 5,000 population): Downtown Dough Jefferson — Building Rehabilitation (under 5,000 population): The Centennial Block Jefferson — Special Event (under 5,000 population): Barbie by the Bells Mason City — Placemaking: Comprehensive Effort: River City Riverwalk Newton — Building Rehabilitation (over 5,000 population): Gray Moon Public Market Osceola — Façade Improvement (over $50,000): Kerr Dental Ottumwa — Business Recruitment (over 5,000 population): Vacant Building Window Clings West Des Moines — Special Event (over 5,000 population): Valley Junction Farmers Market and Music in the Junction Five communities were also recognized for reaching private investment milestones within their commercial districts: Albia — $3 million Avoca — $5 million Coon Rapids — $2 million Corning — $20 million Waverly — $50 million
Need project funding in your state? The National Trust has several grants currently open to help support your preservation projects. Applications are due June 1 for the following: - National Trust Preservation Funds (various states across the country) are intended to encourage preservation at the local level by supporting on-going preservation work and by providing seed money for preservation projects. Grants range up to $5,000. - Bartus Trew Providence Preservation Fund are designed to encourage preservation at the local level by providing money for the acquisition, maintenance, and preservation of historic landmarks and memorials on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Grants range up to $25,000 - Henry A. Jordan, M.D., Preservation Excellence Fund provides funding to deserving organizations demonstrating commitment to the protection of natural and cultural resources in the Mid-Atlantic region. Grants range up to $7,500 Learn more: https://ow.ly/yWwX50YV8IF
The annual Midwest Modern mid-century home tour in Des Moines is Sunday, June 14! Tickets go on sale May 3rd at 9:00 AM, exclusively at iowamcm.com. Proceeds benefit the Iowa Architectural Foundation https://www.iowamcm.com/ #iowaarchitecture #iowaarchitects #IowaHistory
Head's Up! There's a new push to eliminate the State Historical Society of Iowa Iowa City Research Facility! Subcommittee meeting TODAY, at 3:00 pm. Submit comments and/or attend! https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=SF2293 Submit comments here: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/committees/meetingPublicComment?meetingID=42732&action=viewCommitteePublicComments Attend the meeting here: Virtual Meeting URL: https://ialegis.webex.com/ialegis/j.php?MTID=m91b51f0f5beb73fb2fa0135f775a1651 Call in number: 14084189388 Access code: 24929423900
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 | Members of the public have the opportunity to provide input on proposed alterations to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building (EEOB), including a plan to paint the historic granite facade in bright white, causing irreversible physical harm to this important structure. The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) is scheduled to review the project and hear public comments on plans for the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on Thursday, May 7. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗼-𝗗𝗼 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁: 1. 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗲𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿: Protecting the Eisenhower Executive Office Building from Irreparable Harm on Thursday, April 30 at 3PM ET for an urgent conversation with David Scott Parker, FAIA—member of the National Trust Board of Trustees—and Rebecca Miller, executive director of DC Preservation League, about imminent and irreversible harm to this National Historic Landmark. Register for this free webinar: https://ow.ly/wCpT50YQQU1 2. 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗺𝗶𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗖𝗣𝗖. The deadline for public comments is Wednesday, May 6 at noon ET and we encourage you to submit early: https://ow.ly/1LPQ50YQQU0 3. 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿 to join the NCPC meeting on Thursday, May 7. The Eisenhower Executive Office Building will be on the agenda. Visit https://ow.ly/zqbm50YQQU2 for details and the final agenda. The EEOB is a National Historic Landmark and a contributing element of the Lafayette Square National Historic Landmark District that has been preserved, un-painted, since its completion in 1888. The subtle appearance of granite walls, slate roof, and cast-iron detailing are integral to its architectural significance and are character-defining features. Painting the exterior now would obscure the EEOB’s historic appearance and undermine its character-defining features. Coating the surface with an impermeable layer of paint would trap moisture within the masonry, and accelerate the building’s deterioration. Learn more: https://ow.ly/hngu50YQR2o Photo by Joel Sartore Photography
https://www.southeastiowaunion.com/mt-pleasant/news/historic-preservation-project-near-completion-in-lowell/article_b2d558b9-232d-481d-b768-3130c260c26b.html
Iowa History Makers: FY2027 Grant Applications are LIVE! 🔔 The State Historical Society of Iowa is looking for projects that preserve, interpret, and share our state’s rich history. Over $3M has been invested since 2020—will your project be next? 🤔✨ About our Grants: 📍 HRDP Grants: Up to $50k for museums, archives, and historic preservation. 🏫 Country School Grants: Up to $5k to save and celebrate our one-room schoolhouses. ✅ Who: Nonprofits, Businesses, Tribes, and Individuals. ⏰ Deadline: May 1, 2026. 🗓️ Project Window: July 2026 – Nov 2028. Learn more about the guidelines and start your application at https://history.iowa.gov/resources/grants
National Preservation Atlas (NPA), the first-ever interactive map of the country's historic places and preservation protections, announces its launch and an educational webinar. https://www.preservationatlas.org/atlas?utm_campaign=Launching%20the%20National%20Preservation%20Atlas%21&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter The NPA aims to illuminate the breadth, depth, and power of our historic places—and the legal protections and incentives that support them. Over the last year, our team has painstakingly read and interpreted thousands of pages of documents and legal texts, while cleaning and digitizing maps—including lots of blurry, incomplete, and hard-to-read ones. We're launching the interactive map that so far shows historic properties in the states of Connecticut and Nevada. Even as we continue building it out, the NPA already reveals fascinating patterns. Where do federal and state tax credits promote rehabilitation? Which property owners are subject to local review processes? And which neighborhoods have we chosen for formal designation, and which have we ignored? Join us at our Launching the National Preservation Atlas webinar, 11:00am (Central), Friday, May 1st, to learn more about the methodology behind the project, how to get the most out of the map, and how to use the NPA to improve preservation policies in your community. https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_oY0zrEYtSj-vsGadS0anTw?utm_campaign=Launching%20the%20National%20Preservation%20Atlas%21&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter#/registration
⏳ Just 15 tickets left Eat | Drink | Architecture is this Sunday. Join us for an afternoon of food, drinks, and downtown exploration. 🎟️ Don’t miss your chance—grab your ticket now!
https://www.kcrg.com/2026/04/10/hotel-ottumwa-announces-closure/
Join in the celebration of Preservation Month this May! As we mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this Preservation Month, we’re looking to the places that bring its most powerful promise to life: “all people are created equal,” and to the preservationists, like you, who ensure those places endure. Access resources to help engage community members and your networks in your own celebrations! Feel free to add details about events you’re hosting, and visit our LinkedIn Group to see how others are celebrating Preservation Month in their communities! Resources are here: https://savingplaces.org/stories/preservation-month #preservationmonth #nationaltrustforhistoricpreservation #historiciowa #IowaHistory #iowahistory
