The properties at 105-107 E Main were acquired by the City of Ottumwa on February 15, 2024. The properties had been abandoned and the City acquired them using a legal action under Iowa Code Section 657A. The properties have apparent and urgent structural needs, especially 105 E Main which has a large hole in the roof.

These buildings are key features of the 100 block of East Main Street and rescuing them is a priority for the City and Main Street Ottumwa. To pursue this priority, the City intends to seek a Challenge Grant from Main Street Iowa and direct the property toward a developer who would complete the rehabilitation of these buildings.

The proposed project represents a critical first step in a multi-phase plan to revitalize these buildings. The City seeks an engineer to provide a structural analysis and point cloud model for the buildings. We further seek recommendations and cost estimates for both temporary and permanent stabilization measures which would allow progress to be made on rehabilitation.

The full RFQ and submission instructions are on the City of Ottumwa's website.