Main Street ottumwa has been designated as an Accredited Main Street
AmericaTM program for meeting rigorous performance standards. Each year, Main Street America and its
partners announce the list of Accredited programs to recognize their exceptional commitment to
preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street
ApproachTM.
“Main Street America is proud to recognize this year’s 821 Accredited Main Street America programs for
their commitment to building strong and vibrant communities,” said Erin Barnes, President and CEO of Main
Street America. “Their tireless efforts show what’s possible when engaged leaders work together to shape
places that reflect the people they serve. The continued impact of our network shows that the Main Street
movement remains a powerful force for positive transformation.”
In 2024, Main Street America programs generated $7.65 billion in local reinvestment, helped open 6,324 net
new businesses, facilitated the creation of 33,835 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 10,688
historic buildings, and leveraged 1.9 million volunteer hours. On average, for every dollar that a Main Street
program spent to support their operations, it generated $21.73 of new investment back into their downtown
communities.
Main Street Ottumwa’s performance is annually evaluated by Main Street Iowa, which works in
partnership with Main Street America to identify the local programs that meet rigorous national
performance standards. To qualify for Accreditation status, communities must meet a set of rigorous
standards that include commitments to building grassroots revitalization programs, fostering strong
public-private partnerships, nurturing economic opportunity for small businesses and entrepreneurs,
and actively preserving historic places, spaces, and cultural assets.
“We are so proud that in nearly 20 years, we have seen over $37 million in private investment, 283
building projects and over 51,000 hours of volunteer work.” said Kris Patrick, Executive Director. “Over
the past year, we have continued to offer events, business building activities and connected property
owners with resources – as well as continued initiatives to strengthen our entrepreneurial ecosystem
through the Business Builder Academy.”
“Earning recognition as an Accredited Main Street America community is more than just a title—it
highlights our collective commitment to creating a vibrant and resilient downtown,” said Patrick.
“Throughout 2024, we witnessed the impact of this work through the growth of local businesses,
renewed investment in our historic downtown, and the unwavering support of our community. This
accreditation confirms that our community-driven efforts are making a meaningful difference for
residents, businesses, and visitors.”
