Paint projects look to rejuvenate downtown buildings

Two downtown buildings will be getting a face lift through the Downtown Micro-Grant Program. Painting projects are planned for 306 First Ave. W. and 109-111 W. Third St. N. by owners Randy and Marilyn Terlouw at an estimated cost of $4,710 with $2,250 approved in grant funding from the city.

“Historically known as Bridges Auto Supply, the building at 306 First Ave. W. is a contributing structure to the Downtown Historic District,” city administrator Matt Muckler said. “It retains a generally high level of historic integrity and reflects a significant historic period in the life of the community when a major transportation route through Central Iowa ran through Newton.”

Muckler said the present facade is considered historic and its level of integrity as it relates to design, workmanship and materials is high. The building itself is significant because it has the ability to contribute to the city’s understanding of the evolution of automobile transportation in small towns in the state.

The project consists of adding a dark brown/black color to the building to coordinate with the trim of the newly installed upper-level windows and existing brick of the building. The bay garage door, entry and trim will be the areas addressed with grant funds.

Also approved for facade improvements, the building at 109-111 W. Third St. N., historically known as Newton Tire & Batter Service, is another structure considered a contributing resource to the downtown historic district. Muckler said it has an association with the history of the city’s commerce and contributes to the understanding of the evolution of the business district and its impact on the economic success of the community.

“As a resource constructed in response to the growing needs of the motoring community, the building draws attention to that specific segment of the commercial sector,” Muckler said.

Along with painting the entry and bay doors, the Terlouws will also look to repair the block wall in the building. At its April meeting, the Downtown Grant Review Board recommended approval of the grant as long as the paint colors selected to align with the districts design guidelines.

Both projects will be funded by grant funds specified for historic facade renovations.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com