Downtown Development
Come see what we have to offer you and your business, and then consider becoming a part of the success of progressive Downtown Oelwein!
Grand Theatre
The Grand Theatre of Oelwein, 26 South Frederick, reorganized as a locally-owned enterprise in May of 2010, taking the name of the original Grand Theatre which opened in 1923.
This community-based non-profit will continue to show first run movies on its twin screens, with seating for 300 and 200 respectively. Matt Vogel, president of The Grand Theatre, and Mary Frisch, theatre manager, thank the volunteers and ask for the contiued support of the community. Visit www.thegrandtheatreofoelwein.com to learn more about it.
New retail space
The downtown business district shows marked improvement with the revamping of the former Gamble's building at 22 South Frederick. Oelwein Private Investment Company (OPIC) transformed the historic structure into several retail spaces and a lighted, secure walkway from the south parking lot to main street.
A group of 30 local members formed OPIC for the purpose of renovating structures to improve the appearance of downtown Oelwein to attract both business and consumers.
I-Wireless moved into the space that faces Frederick Avenue, and Westside Images and Design owned by Laci Swatek opened photography studio at the west entrance of the walkway. The center store is available, as is 4,000 square feet of commercial space on the second floor.
Past president Jeff Niemann is impressed with the final look. Niemann said, "We want to turn the renovated property over to responsible owners and landlords, then use the money to purchase another building, and the process renews."
NSP Program
As part of a Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP), the city of Oelwein is using federal funds to begin redevelopment of a 5-acre property along Highway 150 just south of the downtown area. The former Oelwein Chemical Company (OCCO) building is slated for demolition to provide an area for interior redevelopment. The project gives the city a great opportunity to improve and stabilize the adjoining neighborhood, a requirement of the NSP program. According to a report in the Oelwein Daily Register, City Attorney Ron VanVeldhuizen said the building will be evaluated by a state historic preservation specialist before bids can be let for the demolition. He expects to see most, if not all of the building to be gone by August.
Our Objectives....
• Enhancing Oelwein's downtown and continuing the revitalization of our business community and entrepreneurial initiatives
• Sponsoring training and workshops promoting good business practices
• Attracting cultural and entertainment venues as well as restaurants, cafes, specialty shops and a variety of retail and service businesses
• Creating a pedestian-friendly area with quality, convenient shopping and dining options
• Hosting exciting Downtown events and attractions
Downtown Revitalization
Oelwein's downtown has recently completed major improvements to sidewalks, streets, and lighting. OCAD's Revitalization Committee partnered with the City of Oelwein to plan and carry out the improvements. In addition to the sidewalk, street and lighting improvements, green plants add color and interest. Wrought iron benches and receptacles are conveniently placed on every downtown block. Individual business owners in the downtown area have been encouraged to redesign storefronts and make other improvements to their properties.
City of Oelwein Revolving Loan Fund
The City of Oelwein Revolving Loan Fund became available in October of 2007 to make monies available to help businesses in downtown Oelwein improve their properties. Applications are available at the OCAD office at 25 W. Charles Street.
• Click here for a printable brochure with all the details.
Design Guidelines
Oelwein Chamber and Area Development contracted with the Iowa Downtown Resource Center, Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) to conduct a Downtown Assessment. The assessment, recently completed, will be an important guide in the deveopment of improvements and investments in our community, particularly in the downtown business area.
Oelwein Central Business District Architectural Design Manual
(Recently adopted by the Oelwein City Council.)
•(Click here to view.)
This set of Design Guidelines were drawn up for the following purposes:
• To foster and maintain the economic viability of Oelwein's central business district by encouraging
redevelopment and new development;
• To regulate exterior scale, massing, design, arrangement, texture, and materials within the district in order to
promote compatibility with the existing character of downtown Oelwein;
• To maintain the unique identify of Downtown Oelwein;
• and more.
Oelwein Central Business District Overlay Ordinance - DRAFT
• (Click here to view.)
Purpose and Intent:
The Central Business District (CBD) Overlay Zoning Ordinance is intended to
supplement one or more established Base Zones, in order to conserve the historic character, enhance the
visual appearance of gateway corridors and advance the public welfare resulting from enhanced economic
opportunities and the quality of life for the City of Oelwein.
Join Us!
We're getting things done in Downtown Oelwein. We're successfully renovating, refurbishing and renewing. We're attracting specialty shops and art galleries, we're improving signage and streetscapes. Ample parking is available.
For more information, please call Oelwein Chamber and Area Development at 319-283-1105, contact us by email at ocad@oelwein.com, or write to us at 25 W. Charles, Oelwein, IA 50662.
Visit our Events Calendar for more local events.
Not a member of OCAD? Click here to join.
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