Downtown Boone, Iowa: 2025 Year in Review
- Kaycee Johnson
- Jan 20
- 2 min read
A year of growth, pride, and downtown momentum
Downtown Boone is more than a place, it’s a heartbeat. A 17-block district of historic commercial and residential spaces, shaped by railroad roots and community grit, Downtown Boone continues to evolve as a destination for business, culture, and connection.
2025 was a big year—and the numbers prove it.
By the Numbers
6 business starts or expansions
12 net new jobs
9 building projects completed
3 buildings sold
$367,903 in private investment
$5,000 in public investment
842 volunteer hours, valued at $19,138
These stats represent more than growth—they represent people choosing to invest in Boone.
Mission & Vision
Mission: To create a vibrant downtown through business growth, historic preservation, and collaborative partnerships.
Vision: An inviting destination that boosts tourism, strengthens community pride, attracts residents and visitors, and supports new upper-story living in historic buildings.
The Strategy Behind the Progress
Downtown Boone follows the Main Street Four-Point Approach:
Economic Vitality
Business and community engagement
Vacancy and building-use workshops
Training through Main Street Iowa
New tracking tools to measure growth
Organization
Stronger board and committee systems
Volunteer and stakeholder engagement
Policies, procedures, and fundraising groundwork
Annual community update and events
Promotion
Events like Crazy Day, Trunk or Treat, Birthday Bash, and Halloween Parade
Partnered events with Shops on Story
Active Facebook and Instagram presence
Rack cards and downtown marketing materials
Design
Tree grate installation
Student-designed trash can artwork
Design guidelines adopted
Historic arch rebuilt
Grant identification and building support
2025 Highlights
Tree Grate Transformation
Trash Receptacle Glow-Up
In Bloom at 8th & Story
Birthday Bash & Volunteer Thank You Event
Design Guidelines Adopted
Historic Arch Rebuilt
Powered by Partnerships
Downtown Boone Iowa: 2025 Year in Review is made possible through partnerships with local businesses, banks, schools, hospitals, media, nonprofits, and city and county leadership. When a community shows up together, real change happens.
What’s Next for Downtown Boone, Iowa:
Grow partnerships with schools, county, and businesses
Strengthen trust with downtown business and building owners
Define culture through shared goals and values
Shape the future—locally driven and community led
2025 showed what’s possible when people believe in their downtown. Downtown Boone isn’t just being revitalized—it’s being reimagined, together!
View our Year in Review Here:
