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February 5, 2026 Art in Unexpected Places
In one innovation, Jefferson Matters, the city’s nonprofit Main Street organization, has commissioned four rooftop murals with a fifth on the way. Why paint on rooftops in a downtown filled with two-story buildings? The artworks are indeed visible — but only from the observation deck of the bell tower in the center of town. Providing art in surprising places is part of Jefferson Matters’ mission and the rooftop murals serve as a unique visitor attraction. Details on the public art program in Jefferson appear in the February issue of Downtown Idea Exchange newsletter. Click below to learn more about Downtown Idea Exchange and other resources for revitalizing downtowns and commercial corridors. 
238 pages, $24.95. Recommended ReadingPlace Branding for Small Cities, Regions & DowntownsBranding is a powerful tool for downtown revitalization and economic development — Yet, it is often misunderstood. In Place Branding for Small Cities, Regions & Downtowns, author Bill Baker presents proven techniques and real-world examples to bring successful place branding to every community. He provides a step-by-step process to create a unifying place brand which embraces tourism, economic development, and community pride. Then he demonstrates how to bring that brand to life through compelling designs, storytelling, experiences, placemaking, and wayfinding. The book provides techniques that are specific to the challenges encountered by smaller places such as downtowns, Main Streets, and business districts. Place Branding is just one of the many books on Marketing and Promotion available from the Downtown Development Center. |
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Jefferson, IA, might be a tiny town in a struggling rural region. Even so, it’s accomplishing big things.