Warm & Colorful, By Nature
Update Uptown Committee
The following documents and reports highlight the ongoing efforts to revitalize Creston’s Uptown District and beyond. UCDA has also implemented Uptown Clean Up Days on the first Thursday of every month May - October to help encourage businesses and community members to engage in civic pride efforts.
Creston Neighborhood Revitalization Grant: 2024
Completed By: SICOG + UU - Awarded By: IEDA
Results: The City of Creston was awarded 1.75 million dollars for improvements in the defined Uptown District. These grant funds will be applied to housing rehabilitation efforts, residential sidewalk improvements, beautification and safety improvements to pedestrian pathways, improved lighting and aesthetics to the Uptown District.
Creston Neighborhood Revitalization Plan: 2023*
Completed By: RDG - Awarded By: IEDA
Results: This report gave a comprehensive overview of what community members prioritize and want their Uptown District to look and feel like. This report made it possible to apply for the Neighborhood Revitalization Grant.
Creston Thriving Communities Designation: 2023 + 2024
Completed By: SICOG + UCDA Housing Committee - Awarded By: IFA
Results: Creston applied for the first round of Thriving Communities Designation that was announced in 2023. Because Creston had completed the Housing Study in addition to the Rural Housing Readiness Assessment, the Housing Committee was equipped with the data and knowledge needed to execute a successful application and presentation. This designation resulted in two developers being awarded Workforce Housing Tax Credits and nearly 40 new housing units.
BOOST Report: 2023*
Completed By: SICOG + UU - Awarded By: IEDA
Results: This report provided several recommendations on how to build on the efforts that have been ongoing. The primary outcome of this report and grant funding was the establishment of a Destination Brand for The City of Creston, the Uptown District, the Creston Chamber of Commerce and several of the amenities.
2040 Comprehensive Plan: 2020*
Completed By: SICOG - Approved + Adopted By The City Council
Results: The Creston City Council adopted this comprehensive plan and should be able to reference this as projects are identified and funding is allocated. This plan has also allowed other committees to reference priorities for trail expansion possibilities.
Downtown Assessment: 2019*
Completed By: IEDA
Results: This team worked to gain an abundance of public input during their time in the community. Through the Assessment, the desire for Uptown Revitalization echoed among a large majority of community members.
Walkability Assessment: 2019
Completed By: Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue Shield Healthy Hometown
Results: This Assessment really launched the discussion of connecting McKinley Park to the Uptown District. It also highlighted the need for Wayfinding throughout the community, as well as, a plan for sidewalk installation and/or repairs.
Housing Study: 2017
Completed By: JEO Consulting
Results: A clearer understanding of the current housing inventory and needs based on demographics. This study also made it possible to apply to be considered a Thriving Community in 2023.
*Indicates Public Input Opportunities
