Downtown Design Guide

Download the IEDA'S Downtown Design Guide Here 

The physical elements of our historic business district embody Storm Lake's past, serve as a venue for its present and contain the potential for its future vibrancy. Downtowns and traditional commercial districts are a home for local businesses, a gathering place for family and friends, and an opportunity to celebrate the diverse cultures that exist in our communities. For these reasons, it is vital that the built environment be maintained and cared for by local stewards.

As a Main Street America  Coordinating Program, Main Street Iowa follows the four-point approach for downtown revitalization. The four points developed by the National Main Street Center are economic vitality, design, organization and promotion. Although this document focuses on the design point, the impact does not stop there. Successful design positively impacts environmental sustainability, economic resiliency and social well-being. In other words, good design can strengthen the other three points.

This document was prepared by Main Street Iowa staff as a guide for local Main Street programs, city staff, downtown development groups, property owners and volunteers as they embark on the revitalization and continued maintenance of the physical assets of their downtowns.