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.

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.

Total Volunteer Hours:  38,397

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City Population:  24,709

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Buildings Sold:  57

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Building Rehab Projects:  229

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Private Investment in

       Property Acquisition:  $3,572,151

       Property Improvements:  $16,078,310

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Net New Businesses:  55

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Net Jobs Created:  394

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Part-time Employees:  262

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Full-time Employees:  867

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                                                       2006          2019

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Upper-Story Housing Units            51            104

Downtown Residents                     53             135

First-floor Vacancy Rate                 37.2%       21.7%

Second-floor Vacancy Rate           65%          39%

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*Figures updated through end of FY19, 06/30/19.