Red Oak Area Partnership Shares Update on Revitalize Southwest Iowa Effort

Red Oak Area Partnership Shares Update on Revitalize Southwest Iowa Effort
October 17, 2025 — Red Oak, Iowa

The Red Oak Area Partnership (ROAP)—the 501(c)(3) formed so Red Oak can participate in the Lakin Foundation’s $165 million Revitalize Southwest Iowa initiative—outlined progress and next steps during a live on-air conversation.

ROAP’s work is organized around three pillars: housing, childcare, and community sustainability/economic resilience. In August, representatives from the Lakin Foundation toured Red Oak and reviewed a tiered housing plan. They left with a deeper appreciation for local assets and ongoing projects.

Since 2000, more than $100 million has been invested in Red Oak, including roughly $60 million in the last decade. Looking ahead, ROAP will present to the Lakin Foundation’s full board in November 2025. If selected, Red Oak’s endowment—expected to be roughly $18.5–$20 million and held at the Community Foundation for Western Iowa—would allow for an annual 5% distribution and limited short-term borrowing for eligible projects.

Near-term concepts include infill housing on the former Webster and Bancroft school sites (with Acorn Development), childcare facility ownership and build-out at the former Washington School (Red Oak Child Development Center), and gateway/amenity upgrades at Legion Park. ROAP also recognized a $50,000 contribution from Sunshine & Rainbows supporting upcoming work.

Follow updates on Facebook (Red Oak Area Partnership Inc.), Instagram, and at redoakareapartnership.org.