Major Industries in Altoona Iowa: What’s Causing the Growth?

In recent years, the economy of Altoona, Iowa has grown substantially as major businesses have broken ground, pursing economic development and business opportunity. When examining the Altoona economy, understanding the business climate and inherent advantages of the region is influential for people looking to move to Altoona or businesses searching for unique economic opportunity.

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Lightyears Ahead: How LightEdge Brought the Future to Altoona

When LightEdge opened their first Altoona data center in 2007, some people didn’t know what to make of it.

“People were asking us, What is a data center?” recalls Jim Masterson, LightEdge CEO. “Today, you’re beginning to see them everywhere. You look around, in this area alone, and you see Facebook, Microsoft—they’re all here. But we were the first.”

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Outlets of Des Moines Celebrates One-Year Anniversary with Continued Growth and Commitment to Central Iowa

Outlets of Des Moines, an open-air lifestyle destination in Altoona, Iowa, and the region’s first outlet center, is officially one year old. To mark the occasion, the center hosted several celebratory events including the grand opening of Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, an art installation by Des Moines artist and illustrator Laura Palmer, one-year anniversary sweepstakes as well as music and entertainment for all ages.  Continue reading…


Groundbreaking Event Set for Luxury Residences in Altoona

The City of Altoona and the community of Ironwood are proud to have The Highgates Group select it as as the development site for new luxury residences in the heart of Altoona. The new development, The Residences at Ironwood, will feature 48 units in two buildings and will complement the existing Ironwood Cottages. Located just 15 miles east of Des Moines, this vibrant new community featuring spacious suites is sure to bring an exciting residential opportunity to the young and young at heart. Continue reading…


City of Altoona & Altoona Area Chamber of Commerce Host Groundbreaking Ceremony for new City Hall location

The City of Altoona, in partnership with the Altoona Area Chamber of Commerce, Christensen Development, Ryan Companies US, Inc., & Design Alliance, will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Altoona City Hall and Police Department facilities located at 900 Venbury Dr., Altoona, Iowa on Tuesday, September 4th at 5:00pm. Continue reading…