These Iowa historic buildings will get a $19 million makeover

These awards were granted through the Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program, which provides a state income tax credit for projects that refurbish historic, underutilized buildings while staying true to the original character-defining features.

Council Bluffs Federal Building and Post Office. Photo courtesy of Tony Webster/CC BY 2.0.

The announcement was made by Debi Durham, director of IEDA and the Iowa Finance Authority, who underscored the importance of these projects in creating vibrant spaces for future generations while honoring the architectural legacy of the community.

The recent round of applications, which opened in January, offered approximately $19 million for awards. Out of 13 applications that requested over $37 million in tax credits, these projects were chosen based on their readiness, financial planning, and local support and participation. The awarded projects are expected to enhance historic buildings across the state.

Some of the projects that received funding include the rehabilitation of the Cranford Apartments in Ames, restoration of the Anne-Mar Building – Carroll Medical Center in Carroll, transformation of the Council Bluffs Federal Building and Post Office, and the revitalization of the Farley & Loetscher building in Dubuque.

Photo courtesy of Cranford Apartments via Facebook.

The next application round for large projects opened in June, with applications due by September 16.

More information about the Historic Preservation Tax Credit program can be found here on the IEDA website, and the full list of awarded buildings can be found Iowa Economic Development Authority.