The Downtown Revitalization Project began in earnest in the fall of 2016, after many years of planning, saving, and grant seeking.
The City of Walnut was fortunate to receive $300,000.00 in CDBG funding through the Iowa Economic Development Authority. Walnut also counted itself lucky to be granted $400,000.00 through the C.I.T.I.E.S. Program, which is sponsored by the Iowa West Foundation. The entire downtown project totaled approximately $1.1 million, a huge investment for a small community like Walnut.
The facades of fifteen buildings were included in the revitalization, making the downtown Business District more appealing to the residents of the community as well as the many visitors who frequent the shops.
After the storefronts are completed, streetscape improvements will follow including new sidewalk, curb and gutter, and leveling of the brick parking area to provide safer travel to and from vehicles. Other enhancements include a mid-block crossing, unique to the area.
Walnut and its residents are quite excited about the improvements. Come on downtown and take a look!!!
Here is a little taste of the project!!
