Building renovations in Oklahoma made possible with state and federal historic tax credits Communities across the country are rediscovering the transformative power of historic tax credits, and two standout examples from the Main Street America NOW Conference in April 2026 came from Okmulgee and Sapulpa. Their stories offer a powerful reminder that these financial tools don’t just revive old buildings—they strengthen entire downtown districts. During the conference session “H

Volunteers from CJ Bio America assisted with the spring cleanup event. The second Downtown Cleanup event of the year is coming up! From sweeping sidewalks to pulling weeds, picking up litter, and refreshing public spaces, Main Street Fort Dodge cleanup events bring people together with one common goal: making downtown look welcoming, clean, and ready to enjoy. Preparing for Big Events These volunteer efforts are especially important as downtown gears up for major events. In M

The annual Lunch on Central returned on June 26 for the 2026 season with more than 100 attendees. Hosted by Main Street Fort Dodge, board members, local volunteers, and business sponsors team up to serve a delicious and affordable meal in the heart of downtown. The event is held in the parking lot in the 700 block of Central Avenue between The Messenger and the Webster County Courthouse. Meals are just $8.00, with outdoor seating or takeout available. Desserts from a local no

2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards Main Street Fort Dodge is proud to announce that Pride in Community Appearance (PICA) has been honored with the Main Street Iowa Leadership Award, a statewide recognition celebrating exceptional volunteerism, leadership, and community impact. The award was presented during the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards in West Des Moines, an event marking the 40th anniversary of the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s (IEDA) Main Stree

Fort Dodge Mayor-elect Dave Flattery believes that the key to the community’s future growth and prosperity can be found downtown. Flattery, who is concluding his 18th year on the City Council, said that downtown will be his No. 1 priority as mayor. “What I want to do is bring retail, recreation and residential to the downtown,” he said. As proof that people want to be downtown, he points to the success of Second Avenue Rowhomes, which consists of 32 rental units in the 900 bl