Wilton Community Development Association

The Wilton Community Development Association was organized in March, 1988. During January and February of 1988 the Chamber of Commerce sponsored a series of four community meetings facilitated by representatives from Iowa State University. From these meetings it was determined there was a need for a commercial/retail steering committee. The purpose of the Association is to pursue new commercial development and assist and encourage existing businesses. The Association was incorporated in 1991.

To accomplish this, we felt Wilton needed to put on a new face. WCDA supported the renovation of the Wilton Depot and made a financial contribution to complete the project in accordance with the Wilton Historical Society's Board of Directors and the design consultant for the project. In 1991 the City's downtown sidewalk, curb, gutter and street lighting project was put into action. The Association strongly supported this effort. Continuing phases are being implemented.

New "Welcome to Wilton" banners were purchased for both downtown and along the highway. The caboose and street lighting motif were used to focus on the refurbished depot and new street lights in the downtown area.

WCDA inspired, planned, and funded, along with the City and neighbors, the Downtown Greenspace. The SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives Association) organization has been working with us for sometime. Representatives consult with any local business concerning any type business problems. SCORE operates on a voluntary basis and there are no charges for their services. Wilton is one of the first communities in Iowa to make use of SCORE.

More recent projects include financial support to the Christmas tree lighting project at the West entrance to Wilton. We have also assisted the local Trees Forever chapter in their effort to plant trees in the city parks and along the West corridor. WCDA was responsible for the Seasonal Banners which hang along 5th Street.

The WCDA played a major role in the purchase and installation of $180,000 worth of new playground equipment in the City park. In an effort to make Wilton's East entrance more attractive, we purchased and erected a new welcome sign along with complimentary landscaping. We are now working on bringing a joint library/community center to Wilton. The City's present facility is quite old and insufficient for many funtions. This is a large project, but a much needed one, which will provide a wonderful service to the City.

It is our hope, that by working on some of these quality of life projects, we will make Wilton a more attractive option for businesses and families looking to relocate.