Nearly $2 million in tax credits were awarded to Fort Dodge last week with a goal of creating locally affordable workforce housing.

The tax credits were awarded to two projects in Fort Dodge – District 29 Apartments III, LLC which was awarded $1 million in credits for 49 units to be constructed south of the existing District 29 units off Dodger Drive, and 24WF River District, LLC (aka. Hoppe Development) which was awarded $874,440 in credits for 24 units to be constructed on Third Avenue Northwest.

According to local leaders, these projects will create much needed rental housing, helping ensure that Fort Dodge continues to be a place where families can put down roots and businesses can count on a steady, reliable workforce.

“This is an exciting moment for our community,” said Astra Ferris, chief executive officer of the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance. “These investments will strengthen our housing inventory, attract and retain talent, and position our community for future growth. Thank you to our developers, partners, and local leaders who made these projects possible. Together, we are building the housing, workforce, and quality of life that will keep our region thriving for decades to come.”

According to Ferris, Fort Dodge’s recent designation as an Iowa Thriving Community by the Iowa Finance Authority and the Iowa Economic Development Authority, is also a significant accomplishment for the city, its businesses and community stakeholders that provided additional incentives for the workforce housing tax credit funding.

“When families can find quality, affordable homes, they put down roots — and that gives businesses the steady workforce they need,” said Debi Durham, director of IEDA and the Iowa Finance Authority. “It’s that kind of stability that keeps our communities strong and our economy moving forward.”

Fort Dodge was one of 137 applicants requesting approximately $83 million in tax credits. Only 63 projects were awarded statewide which will create nearly 2,000 new residential units in both large and small communities throughout Iowa.

Of the $35 million made available for fiscal year 2026, $17.5 million was specifically reserved for projects in Iowa’s 88 least-populated counties.

“Fort Dodge is excited to see these critical workforce housing projects come to life,” said Mayor Matt Bemrich. “The funding for the Northwest River District and District 29 will bring new, quality homes providing opportunities for our local workforce to live, grow, and thrive right here in our community. This investment strengthens Fort Dodge’s neighborhoods, economy, and future.”