DUBUQUE, IA — The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) awarded the Main Street Iowa Challenge grant to help transform a property in downtown Dubuque.

The project will help transform the former mall-style building at 980 Main Street into ‘Slanted Dubuque,’ the area’s first indoor climbing facility.

The project will also add some modernized storefronts to the building.

“Competition grants help us preserve rich historic character while breathing new life into our traditional downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts. New businesses and residents are drawn to energized main streets that radiate outward to grow local economies across the state,” said IEDA and Iowa Director. Finance Authority Debi Durham said:

This grant effort was led by Dubuque Main Street, a committee comprised of Dubuque community members.

The committee chose to undertake this project out of ten applications for the grant.

The renovation project hopes to add individuality to multiple storefronts while preserving the building’s historic significance.