Former Maytag Complex attracts new businesses

While much of Newton’s former downtown Maytag Complex still sits vacant following its sale to Newton Enterprises LLC in April, a handful of businesses recently have purchased space and begun renovations.

A portion of the complex that used to house Grace Church has been purchased by New Care Clinics and has begun an extensive remodel, according to Bryan Friedman, Newton’s community development director.

“We’re hopeful that they’ll have the clinic up and running by the end of the year,” said Friedman of the space, which mainly will be comprised of doctor’s offices.

In addition, former laboratory space within the complex has been purchased by Health Enterprises, an alliance of member hospitals around Iowa. While remodeling has yet to begin, Friedman noted that renovations would begin soon, with an open date likely falling in early 2013.

Engineered Plastic Components Inc., a company founded and formerly based in Grinnell, recently moved its corporate headquarters to the former Maytag space, serving as a third addition.

While the complex is steadily filling up with businesses, Friedman noted that plenty of space remained for companies seeking a new location.

“There is significant space still available, ranging from floors of vacant office space to first-floor retail and shops, former call centers and labs to unfinished space,” Friedman said.

Because of the variety of space available, Friedman said that portions of the complex could be adapted to fit nearly any prospective tenant.

“The complex grew and evolved over 100 years and was built over in different styles, so it has the variety to suit the needs of any tenant,” Friedman said.

Nicole Wiegand can be contacted at (641) 792-3121 ext. 422 or via email at nwiegand@newtondailynews.com.