ROCK VALLEY, IA (northwestiowanow.com) – Almost one year after devastating floods swept through Rock Valley, the community is moving forward with housing developments and renewed hope.
On Tuesday, June 10th, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in Rock Valley, with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds joining local leaders as they celebrated one of several new housing projects. Several families who lost their homes in the flood last June are already moving into their new homes.
Rock Valley Mayor Kevin Van Otterloo says the city has come a long way since last year. “But many in the community are still hurting, still searching for answers, and still rebuilding their lives.” He reassures the community that they have not been forgotten.
The flood, caused by the Rock River breaching a protective berm, destroyed close to 150 homes. The state responded by allocating nearly $7 million to support five housing developments, creating over 90 new units.
Governor Reynolds praised the town’s resilience, saying, “Rock Valley isn’t just building back — it’s building back stronger, more resilient, and more sustainable than ever.”
In addition to state support, the Iowa Legislature approved nearly $14 million for disaster recovery and demolition across the state. Rock Valley has also requested FEMA buyouts for the 150 homes lost in the flood, and city officials say federal approval may be coming in the near future.