With a population now around 3,500 and growing, Solon is embracing change with a proactive plan and a strong vision. “We want to make sure that we’re leaving the city better than where we found it,” Mayor O’Neil adds. A MAIN STREET MAKEOVER In 2012 Solon embarked on a $1 million Main Street project that would revitalize the city core. City Administrator Cami Rasmussen recounts, “That really set the tone for where Solon is today. It was a complete redo of the infrastructure under Main Street, and then, of course, the beautification. We put a lot of time and thought and effort into the design that you see on our main street today.” In 2013 Big Grove Brewery opened its doors and ushered in a new era of downtown activity. Rasmussen recounts,“Since that time, the city council has invested over a half a million dollars directly into main street businesses and buildings, through tax abatements, forgivable loans and forgivable grants.” Katie Neuzil, Big Grove Brewery General Manager, adds,“Since Big Grove has been around, we’ve seen a lot of new restaurants and new concepts come to the area. It’s really cool because Solon has kind of a theme of mutual support. We want everyone to succeed in this small town.” She emphasizes the encouragement the establishment has experienced, both from the city, and the community. “Doug, Matt, and Faye, our original three owners, approached the city about this idea of taking over the spot where we are currently located. They really embraced this new business, which is not just a place for people to come and have great beer and great food, but also a communal gathering space.” A DESTINATION IN THE MAKING Solon is definitely a destination of choice, with visitors travelling from nearby cities and beyond, to experience the vibrancy of the community. Describing restaurants filled with people from neighboring cities on any given weekend, Mayor O’Neil remarks, “It’s cool to see we are a spot to go.” Solon’s Main Street showcases the town’s unique character with longtime fixtures like Sam’s Grocery, Solon Hardware Store, and Big Grove Brewery 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07 SOLON, IA
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