[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 44 (Thursday, April 18, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E590]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     CEDAR FALLS TO RECEIVE A 2002 GREAT AMERICAN MAIN STREET AWARD

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                            HON. JIM NUSSLE

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 18, 2002

  Mr. NUSSLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to share some good news about a well-
deserved award bestowed recently upon Cedar Falls, Iowa.
  The National Trust for Historic Preservation rightfully chose Cedar 
Falls to receive a 2002 Great American Main Street Award. The award 
recognizes America's best efforts in historic preservation-based 
commercial district revitalization.
  Mr. Speaker, as someone who has seen first hand what this community 
has accomplished on behalf of its citizens, let me assure you that this 
honor is wholly deserved.
  Like many American communities, Cedar Falls experienced a loss of 
jobs during the 1980s. By 1987, Cedar Falls' historic business district 
was in trouble and nearly vacant. Although committed to their downtown 
business district, the community struggled with a long-term 
revitalization plan.
  Today, only two storefronts are empty. Today, downtown Cedar Falls is 
an attractive, vibrant place to work and visit.
  The Cedar Falls Community Main Street program helped bring the 
community back to life. The program supported inter-agency partnerships 
and the lead economic development partner in the community.
  Due to the dedication of the Cedar Falls Community Main Street 
downtown development group over the last 15 years, the area has seen a 
net gain of 237 new jobs, 306 building renovations or improvements, 
with $8.2 million in private funds invested in rehabilitation and 
another $5.6 million in property acquisition. The group includes 
downtown merchants, lifelong residents, and newcomers who have 
discovered the newly preserved and revitalized community.
  I offer my sincere congratulations on this award to the Cedar Falls 
residents who had the vision and dedication to make such a dramatic 
difference in their community.

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