Newton, Iowa
Newton Downtown Redevelopment Plan

The redevelopment plan for this industrial Iowa city was prepared to strengthen the city's existing employment by expanding its industrial base. Goals focused on meeting the expansion needs of the Maytag Corporation, the area's major employer, identifying redevelopment opportunities in the downtown area and linking these two major components of Newton's economy. In order to achieve these dual objectives, a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) was established with a plan to keep the Maytag Corporate Headquarters in the downtown area. The plan also identified portions of the downtown area for redevelopment in order to accommodate a new medical center, an elderly housing facility and additional commercial development.

The plan entailed analysis of existing conditions, preparation of TIF eligibility studies, a development plan and related financial analyses negotiations with the heads of major industries, and the development of detailed design schemes for streetscape and open space improvements. Major redevelopment projects began immediately following plan adoption.