About MSO
Established in 2006, Main Street Ottumwa is one of just 55
accredited Main Street programs in the State of Iowa.
The Main Street Ottumwa program fosters a vibrant, dynamic, and healthy downtown through community engagement and collaborative partnerships.
Our Mission
Ottumwa will be the Southeast Iowa hub for arts, entertainment, commerce, residential and employment opportunities. Community pride will be evident in the restored buildings filled with restaurants, retail, and specialty shops. Business and building owners will be involved in retaining and attracting new businesses and professionals to the city center. Downtown will welcome new and returning Iowans and be home to more people who choose to stay or return to the community. Downtown’s connection to the riverfront and the Bridge View Center will make it an exciting destination for entertainment, dining, shopping and meeting friends.
Our Vision
Total Volunteer Hours: 38,397
City Population: 24,709
Buildings Sold: 57
Building Rehab Projects: 229
Private Investment in
Property Acquisition: $3,572,151
Property Improvements: $16,078,310
Net New Businesses: 55
Net Jobs Created: 394
Part-time Employees: 262
Full-time Employees: 867
2006 2019
Upper-Story Housing Units 51 104
Downtown Residents 53 135
First-floor Vacancy Rate 37.2% 21.7%
Second-floor Vacancy Rate 65% 39%
*Figures updated through end of FY19, 06/30/19.
