(Atlantic) Governor Kim Reynolds met with members of SHIFT ATL Wednesday afternoon to hear about the group’s plans to renovate the old Downtowner building.
SHIFT ATL is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization with a mission to get more community-minded people involved in the economic development of Atlantic. The group purchased the old Downtowner building in 2019 and the plans are to turn the upper story into an Airbnb short-term rental type of unit; a two bedroom, one bathroom, open concept living area. The lower level will be used for commercial space and there will be some green space outside.
In addition to the numerous generous donations and money raised through fundraisers, the group this year also received a $100,000 Catalyst grant from Iowa Economic Development Authority and a $20,000 Rural Innovation Grant. However, funds are still needed to complete the project.
Mallory Robinson explained to Governor Reynolds a couple of fundraising events they have planned so far.
Construction on the old Downtowner building should start in October and will hopefully be completed in the Spring. But, this won’t be their final project. SHIFT ATL is also interested in housing for the community.
Governor Reynolds said it was so good to see SHIFT ATL’s commitment to their community and how they are working together to make a difference.
For more information on SHIFT ATL, email shiftatlantic@gmail.com, or visit Shift ATL on Facebook.
