Monticello Among Main Street Iowa Communities Honored

Monticello was among seven Main Street Iowa communities honored on Wednesday.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority announced that seven designated Main Street Iowa communities have reached new benchmarks in private investment in 2024, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to revitalization, economic growth and historic preservation.

Since launching their respective Main Street Iowa programs, these communities have collectively attracted $100 million in private dollars for commercial district rehabilitation and property acquisition, contributing to the vibrancy and sustainability of those areas.

Benchmarks are preset dollar thresholds that are used as measurement standards for private investment in all Main Street Iowa districts. Benchmark levels vary based on a community’s population — small, midsize and large.

Monticello’s new private investment benchmark is $5 million. The other six communities honored included Albia, Colfax, Grundy Center, Manning, Marion and Newton. 

Main Street Iowa recognized the cities during a spring workshop held Wednesday in Jefferson.