CONTRIBUTED GRAPHIC Shown is an architect’s rendering of a proposed new grocery store and restaurant replacing Abbarottes Villachuatto grocery business in a new location, 107 N. Canter St. The original business, 31 N. First Ave., was severely damaged in the July 2018 tornado and recently demolished.

Four downtown projects with the potential to provide significant economic development impact to Marshalltown passed a crucial first test at Monday’s city council meeting.

Three are well known properties on Main Street and a fourth is a proposed new grocery store and restaurant.

Councilors unanimously approved what is called the pre-application phase of Iowa Economic Development Authority Catalyst Grants, a necessary step to move the projects on to the IEDA.

The IEDA awarded Marshalltown a total of $1 million after the 2018 tornado.

The city’s asking for the projects below total $650,000.

The projects are:

• McGregor’s Furniture – 109-111 W. Main St; Catalyst Grant: $75,000 for building restoration project. The project endeavors to take the building back to to some of its historical features including custom windows and a cornice.

• Zamora’s Fresh Market – 4 E. Main St.; Catalyst Grant: $250,000 for a facade restoration project. The initiative will focus on making repairs to the building’s exterior while providing a fresh update to windows and awnings.

• Marshalltown Senior Residences – 201 E. Main St.; Catalyst Grant: $75,000 for a building restoration project.This project will restore 28 units of affordable senior housing. Interior damage and the rear portion of the fourth floor which was significantly damaged will be repaired.

• New Grocery Store and Restaurant – 107 N. Center St.; Catalyst Grant: $250,000. This project will replace the original Abbarotes Villachuatto grocery store at 31 N. Center St. which was severely damaged in the tornado and recently demolished. The project also adds a restaurant.

“The IEDA will review the applications to ensure they are consistent with their guidelines,” city administrator Jessica Kinser said. “If all are approved, they will offer a major positive impact to the central business district.”

Contact Mike Donahey at 641-753-6611 or mdonahey@timesrepublican.