BOONE, Iowa—The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is pleased to announce that the City of Boone has received funding for 1003 Marshall Street located in north Downtown Boone.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority has awarded Boone with $100,000, for a project
that will transform an underutilized building into new commercial and residential space.

The adaptive reuse project at 1003 Marshall Street aims to transform the property into a
vibrant community hub that includes a commercial kitchen, coffee house, cafe, event,
education, and innovation center, artist hub, and upper story housing. The second floor will
be split between upper-story long-term and short-term housing, with a small co-working
space available. The project aligns with the community’s goal of increasing foot traffic to
downtown Boone and supporting the city’s goal of becoming a Main Street community.

Tina McDonald, with Eco IMPACT REI, the building owner explains, “The Catalyst funds will
be utilized for future demo of the space, the build out of a cafe, commercial kitchen, and the
coffee house, as well as updating the electrical and enhanced lighting.”

“This Community Catalyst grant will be so impactful for the growth and vitality of this portion of the City’s downtown as well as highlighting and enhancing one of our most recognizable recreational assets, the Boone and Scenic Valley trolley,” said City of Boone Mayor Elijah Stines. “I’m so excited for this project and the momentum it brings. I’m also grateful for all of the partners who came together to make this vision a reality.”

Eco IMPACT REI LLC applied for and was approved by the City of Boone for $30,000
through their Boone Downtown Incentive Fund. This fund covers 40% of facade work (up to
$30,000) on the main exposed side of the building, which includes the south side facade
curtain wall, a mix of glass paneled windows and garage doors resulting in a positive impact
for the street appeal of the building.

“This State grant, supported by the local match provided by the City of Boone provides a
wonderful opportunity to support the catalytic revitalization efforts going on in Downtown
Boone while supporting an entrepreneur in bringing her dream to reality,” said Brenda Dryer, Executive Director for the Boone County Economic Growth Corporation.

Concept for the property at 1003 Marshall Street

(contributed press release and photo, AREA)