Cultural District Signs to be Unveiled

For Immediate Release June 7, 2005

What: Unveiling of Downtown Cedar Falls Cultural District Signage
Time: Noon
Date: Saturday, June 11, 2005
Place: 4th & Main streets, Cedar Falls, Iowa

The State Historical Society of Iowa certified 10 cultural districts in eight communities across Iowa last year. A Cultural District is a recognized, labeled, mix-use, compact area in which a high concentration of cultural facilities serves as the anchor.

Cultural Districts are established to encourage city and county governments to partner with local community non-profit or for profit organizations, businesses and individuals to enhance the quality of life for citizens of the state. Cultural Districts also enrich local economies through developing and sustaining cultural facilities in a synergetic fashion.

The arts and areas with historic structures attract residents and tourists who also support adjacent businesses such as restaurants, lodging, retail and entertainment. The presence of the arts and cultural opportunities enhances property values, the profitability of surrounding businesses and the tax base of the region. These districts attract a diverse and well-educated workforce—a key incentive for new and relocating businesses. And these districts contribute to the creativity and innovation of a community.

The benefits offered to certified districts could include historic tax credits for rehabilitation of historic structures or other incentives that create live/work space for cultural workers and access financial assistance programs from state agencies and other funding partners.

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