Jefferson was recognized for its continued downtown revitalization and community efforts at the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards Thursday, May 7.
Jefferson received two competitive project awards along with a leadership recognition, highlighting the partnerships and initiatives that continue to shape the downtown experience and support local businesses.
The Centennial Building was awarded the prestigious “Building Rehabilitation” honor, recognizing a full renovation of the historic structure. The project included exterior and interior improvements as well as the addition of upper story housing, creating new opportunities for both residential living and a restaurant in the heart of downtown. Project partners in attendance included Kevin and Ian Conway of Westbrooke Construction, former Jefferson city administrator Mike Palmer, members of Why Not Us, and architect Pete Franks, all of whom played a role in bringing the project to completion.
Jefferson was also recognized in the “Special Event” category for Barbie by the Bells, a community-wide event held in the summer of 2024. The event brought visitors to Jefferson from across the United States and internationally. The collaboration included the Barbie by the Bells ladies, Greene County Historical Museum, Jefferson Matters, local businesses, and other partners who worked together to create a connected visitor experience.
In addition to project awards, Jefferson Matters recognized Jill Morton as our 2026 Volunteer of the Year for Jefferson Matters. Jill has been involved in numerous events and initiatives, bringing energy and a strong commitment to supporting Jefferson Matters and its mission.
“Over the past 40 years, Main Street Iowa has grown into one of the strongest and most respected statewide Main Street programs in the country, and that success comes directly from the people doing the work in these communities.” said IEDA director Debi Durham.
The Main Street Iowa Development Awards program recognizes projects and people who contribute to the ongoing revitalization of downtown districts across the state. The 40th anniversary celebration highlighted the long-term impact of the Main Street approach and the continued success of communities like Jefferson. Jefferson was also recognized as the 2025 Great American Main Street Award winner, becoming Iowa’s 10th community to receive this honor, the most of any state in the country.
“Celebrating Main Street Iowa’s 40th anniversary at the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards honored the legacy of those who first embraced the Main Street Approach™ while highlighting the successes of today,” said Carol Lilly, Main Street Iowa state coordinator. “The milestone provided an opportunity to reflect on the program’s strong foundation while looking ahead to the future of downtown revitalization across the state. It also underscored the continued momentum of the Main Street movement and the shared commitment to building vibrant, resilient downtowns for generations to come.”
Main Street Iowa was established in 1985 and operates as part of IEDA’s Downtown Resource Center. Since its inception, the program has generated more than $3.1 billion in private investment, nearly 4.1 million volunteer hours, more than 5,600 new businesses and more than 17,300 jobs.
See a detailed list of all 2026 award winners, including recognized projects and leadership award recipients.
