Jefferson Matters: Main Street recently received a pair of grants from the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

JMMS was one of 14 Main Street communities that received a challenge grant for bricks and mortar. The $74,500 grant will be used on the Kendall building, known as the former Linda’s Fashion building on the south side of the downtown square. Program Director Peg Raney explains what the grant funds will be used for.

“That $74,000 is going to go towards restoration of the original wood floors in the first floor, repair and restoration of the tin ceiling, electrical throughout the entire building, the addition of a vintage staircase on the outside of the building, tuckpointing of the facade, vintage exterior doors and plumbing.”        

The total cost of the project is $274,500.

JMMS also received a $5,000 grant for wayfinding signage to the downtown area. Raney says they are working with the City of Jefferson and the Greene County Chamber to develop a new brand and wayfinding signage to Jefferson. The funds will be used for professional design services to carry out the project.

JMMS was one of 12 Main Street communities to receive such a grant.