Downtowns are more than economic centers. They serve as the heart of a community, welcoming residents and visitors while highlighting local shops, amenities, cultural attractions, and more. In Winnebago and Worth counties, Iowa, downtown areas combine the charm of small-town life with historic preservation and modern development.
Communities like Northwood and Forest City are working to enhance their downtowns, spurring new interest and growth while preserving the character residents cherish.
“Downtown is often viewed as the heart of a community,” said North Iowa Council of Governments (NIACOG) director Myrtle Nelson. “Having a healthy downtown affects the community as a whole. I love communities with thriving downtowns. They bring a rich charm where you don’t get lost in the numbers. People know each other, and they take care of their neighbors. In a way, it's like a big family where you’re familiar with your community and the people in it.”
Downtown Revitalization Strategies in Northern Iowa
NIACOG works with eight Iowa counties, providing technical support, planning and zoning, grant administration, housing and mapping to its member governments.
Naturally, NIACOG works hand in glove with economic development organizations such as Winn-Worth Betco to connect local business owners and contractors with critical guidance and support.
Northern Iowa’s downtowns often feature two-story, turn-of-the-century buildings. NIACOG works to ensure the space is strategically utilized.
“It’s important for first-floor storefronts to be full,” Nelson said. “When people see activity in all the shops, it makes the street feel alive. Residential components on the second floor also help. The first floor should be for businesses or retailers to attract foot traffic, while residents above bring even more people to the street.”
In addition to spacing, NIACOG and partner organizations also focus on site improvements, such as enhancing building facades or cosmetics.
“We’re taking old, historic buildings and helping them become viable again, by improving the storefronts or interior renovations.” Nelson continued. “Creating vitality makes a difference, not only for a particular building, but also for the buildings that surround it.”
Exciting Projects in Forest City & Northwood
Nelson is always on the lookout for local business owners, entrepreneurs, or residents who could use a helping hand on a downtown project.
There are often enthusiastic people ready to work, but just need to be pointed in the right direction to secure applicable grants or other financial assistance from local government or private foundations.
Several years ago, NIACOG helped spearhead a downtown façade renovation in Forest City, while currently, Nelson and her peers are working on an upper-story renovation project.
In downtown Northwood, multiple buildings are being renovated thanks to community catalyst grants.
“There’s a wonderful group of local individuals who have taken it upon themselves to see downtown Northwood as something to fight for,” Nelson said. “They’re honoring the historic integrity and fabric that remains, making these old buildings full of character useful in today’s world.”
Community Events Keep Downtowns Thriving
Regular community events also help to keep downtowns vibrant.
Holiday-themed gatherings like Fourth of July parades or Halloween events, farmers markets, block parties, musical performances, and cultural heritage festivals are all avenues for communities to attract visitors and bring people together.
“The perception of an area, especially a downtown, makes a huge difference,” said Nelson. “If it’s vacant with not a lot going on, that will have a really negative feel to it. Planned events bring people downtown and create a feeling of the downtown being alive.”
For more information on downtown revitalization efforts in Winnebago and Worth counties, contact Winn-Worth Betco or NIACOG.
