Webster City is one of five Iowa communities that have been chosen to participate in the 2025 First Impressions program.

The First Impressions program is an initiative designed to boost tourism, attract residents and skilled workers, and improve overall quality of life. In addition to Webster City, Independence, Manning, Perry and Washington were chosen.

Developed by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, the program offers communities an opportunity to gain fresh perspectives on their tourism strategies, resident engagement, and visitor appeal.

“We’re thrilled to expand the program in 2025 to include five dynamic communities across Iowa,” Diane Van Wyngarden, state tourism specialist at ISU Extension and Outreach,. said. “The First Impressions program provides valuable insights into how communities can refine their strengths, and address areas that may be holding them back, ensuring they are well-equipped to attract both visitors and new residents.”

The program features in-depth assessments by a trained team of evaluators who visit each community, reviewing everything from tourism attractions to the overall visitor experience. The data collected forms a comprehensive report that outlines both immediate and long-term strategies for enhancing the community’s appeal.

Recommendations will be shared in a public forum, sparking conversations among local residents and stakeholders to ensure the proposed changes are actionable and effective.

“By focusing on the first-time visitor experience, the First Impressions program helps communities identify what works, what doesn’t, and how to improve,” Van Wyngarden said. “The ultimate goal is to create vibrant, thriving communities that not only attract visitors but also support local growth and development.”

The selected communities for 2025 will begin their assessments in the coming months, with reports and recommendations slated for release later in the year.

For more information on the First Impressions program, visit go.iastate.edu/UHRTUJ or contact Van Wyngarden at dvw@iastate.edu.