Brownfields Program

 Mason City was officially incorporated as a town in 1870, when the population was just over 1,000 people. The city boomed during the early 20th century, becoming an industrial powerhouse for brick, tile, and Portland cement production. However, economic hardship during the 1970s led to an increase in underserved and underutilized areas. Presently, the city sits at 27,000 strong as of the 2020 census and is a hub for entertainment within north-central Iowa due to recent developments.

In recent years, Mason City has been hard at work to restore the city and create opportunities for its residents. With funds received from the Iowa Reinvestment Act, Mason City began the River City Renaissance Area project to build a multipurpose arena, hotel, and other improvements near the Southbridge Mall. This project is still ongoing but has already received numerous awards and recognitions. Mason City has also implemented resident well-being programs, such as the Blue Zones Project and Wellmark’s Healthy Hometown program to help its residents live longer, healthier, lives. 

Mason City was selected for a Brownfields Assessment Grant by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2023. This grant will build on the already-growing momentum of Mason City in their pursuit to better the lives of their residents.