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Clinton “Targets” new development for city’s southwest gateway

“It’s a lot of activity,” said MIke Kirchhoff, on redeveloping Clinton, Iowa’s southwest gateway.

CLINTON, Iowa- Businesses are spending millions of dollars to energize a gateway to Clinton, Iowa, connecting U.S. Route 30 and U.S. Highway 67.

From new residences, retail, restaurants - even recycling - Clinton is crafting a strategy for success.

Inside Buffalo Wild Wings on Wednesday, staffers are training at the new location.

When the restaurant opens on August 22, 2016, it will create more than 100 part-time jobs.

"It's a lot of activity," said Mike Kirchhoff, president and CEO of the Clinton Regional Development Corporation.

Two years ago, it didn't look so promising.

"I'm disappointed," said Mary Elliott, back on November 25, 2014.  "I like coming here."

But when Clinton's Target store abruptly closed, developers decided to try something different: create seven stores in the same space.

These days, there's a brand new look.

"It's a highly visible location with over six million vehicles a year right out in front," said Dennis Lauver, a realtor with Howes & Jefferies.  "It's gone over very, very well."

Nearby, a $30 million apartment complex called The Landing is on the way.

It will offer more than 200 apartments to spark this part of Clinton.

This new construction targets future employees at the Thomson prison.

When housing comes, it also inspires other businesses to build.

There's a new Aldi grocery store going up in the corridor.

"What we're talking to industry about is, is this a good place to invest my resources?" Kirchhoff continued.  "Is this a place where I can get a good return on investment?"

That's the case at Envirovision Recycling.

Since opening in Clinton in 2015, the recycling business revived a long-vacant warehouse and tripled its workforce.

"With our proximity to Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Louis and Minneapolis, it works out well," said Plant Manager Chris Cobb.

The company, which recycles garbage carts and other items, will soon process a million pounds each month.

"It's been a real blessing," Cobb said.  "The city's been great to work with, too."

Teamwork and new ideas are helping to turn tough times into a fresh start for Clinton.

"We think it will all help everybody," Lauver concluded.  "Kind of like - a rising tide will lift all the boats - mentality."

 

 

 

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