Dubuque County Historical Society Receives Grant Support for Museums for All Program

The Dubuque County Historical Society (DCHS) has been awarded local grant funding to support their FY26 Museums for All low-cost-admission program. Funding from Dubuque County, McDonough Foundation, and Cafaro Family Foundation will support DCHS in offering low-cost admission ($5) to the National Mississippi River Museum and Mathias Ham Historic Site for individuals living below the federal poverty threshold.

Jule Bus Fares Waived for Dubuque College Students

Students attending Dubuque’s colleges will be able to ride The Jule, Dubuque’s public transit system, for free this school year.

This will be the third consecutive year that local college students are able to ride Jule buses at no cost. Previously, college students had been charged the adult fare of $1.50 per ride. The elimination of fares for college students will provide an additional opportunity for students to travel around Dubuque for shopping, entertainment, dining, recreation, and jobs.

To take advantage of the free rides, college students will be required to display a valid school ID for the 2025-26 school year.

The free rides will be available for students attending the following Dubuque institutions:

• Capri College
• Clarke University
• Emmaus University
• Loras College
• Northeast Iowa Community College
• University of Dubuque
• Wartburg Theological Seminary

In addition to offering free rides for college students, K-12 students are also able to ride the Jule at no charge. Students in 6th-12th grades must present a valid school ID to be eligible for the free bus rides.

Additional information about The Jule, including route schedules, maps, and bus tracking tools are available through the MyJule app and by visiting www.cityofdubuque.org/Jule

City of Dubuque Issues Reminder of Political Yard Sign Regulations

The City of Dubuque is reminding campaigns and residents of the regulations governing the placement of political signs as election season approaches. The City’s Unified Development Code (UDC) regulates all exterior signage on property, including political signage, within the community.

In accordance with the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, the City of Dubuque cannot and does not regulate the content of political signs. However, the City can legally regulate the size, manner, and placement of political signs for safety and visibility.

The City of Dubuque has the following regulations on political signs:

• Political signs cannot exceed 32 square feet in area.
• Political signs cannot be placed in any public right-of-way or visibility triangle.
• Political signs cannot be placed on objects in the right-of-way such as trees and utility poles, or in medians.

If a sign is inadvertently placed on the public right-of-way, the City’s Public Works Department may move the sign back on to private property and attach a green slip noting the violation. The City may follow with a notice of violation letter specifying a time frame to correct any violations. The right-of-way area varies throughout the community.

Complete details, including diagrams, are available online at www.cityofdubuque.org/politicalsigns

Primary elections for races with more than two candidates will take place on Tuesday, October 7. Elections for mayor and city council seats will be held on Tuesday, November 4.

 Riverview Center’s 28th Annual Duck Derby Set for October 12th 

Debry To Be Held During Galena’s Country Fair

Riverview Center has announced its 28th Annual Duck Derby, taking place on Sunday, October 12, 2025, during the final day of Galena’s Country Fair. This community tradition supports Riverview Center’s mission of providing 100% free and confidential services for survivors of sexual and domestic violence in Illinois and Iowa.

At 3pm sharp, thousands of bright yellow ducks will be launched into the Galena River, each representing a ticket holder, in a lively race to the finish line. The first four ducks to cross the finish line will win cash prizes:

● 1st Place: $1,000

● 2nd Place: $500

● 3rd Place: $250

● 4th Place: $100

Tickets are just $5 each, and anyone who purchases four tickets will be entered into an exclusive bonus raffle drawing. Tickets are available online at www.riverviewcenter.org/events or by contacting Riverview Center directly at 563-557-0310. Although spectators are welcome, winners do not need to be present to claim their prize.

“The Duck Derby is such a joyful tradition for Galena, and we’re so proud to be part of it,” said Gwen Bramlet-Hecker, Executive Director of Riverview Center. “Not only does it bring the community together in such a fun way, but thanks to our generous sponsors, every single duck purchased directly supports survivors in their journey to healing and justice.”

Heidi Zull, Riverview Center’s Director of Development and Public Relations, added: “We see the impact of this event every year—not just in the funds raised, but in the conversations it sparks about hope, resilience, and support for survivors. Every duck truly makes a difference.”

Riverview Center gratefully acknowledges the generous support of this year’s sponsors: ITC, A Fortis Company, Renewal by Andersen, and Planted. Special thanks also to Carlisle Ryan for their generous in-kind donation of printing this year’s tickets. All of our sponsor’s support ensures that every dollar raised goes directly toward survivor care and violence prevention efforts.

For more than 32 years, Riverview Center has been a trusted resource for survivors, offering free, professional services including crisis hotlines, advocacy, counseling, support groups, professional training, and prevention education.

To purchase tickets and to learn more about Riverview Center’s services, visit their website www.riverviewcenter.org.

Hotlines:

● Iowa 24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 888-557-0310

● Jo Daviess 24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 815-777-8155

● Jo Daviess 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 815-777-3680

● Carroll 24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 815-244-7772

● Carroll 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 815-244-1320

HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE LABOR DAY!

🇺🇸 Happy Labor Day

Honoring the Contributions of Workers

Each year, on the first Monday of September, Americans pause to celebrate Labor Day, a holiday dedicated to recognizing the hard work, achievements, and contributions of workers across the nation. Beyond the backyard barbecues, parades, and end-of-summer gatherings, Labor Day carries a rich history rooted in the struggle for fair working conditions.

A Brief History

In the late 19th century, America was experiencing rapid industrial growth. Factory employees, railroad workers, and tradesmen often toiled 12-hour days, seven days a week, in unsafe environments for little pay. In response, workers began organizing unions to demand better wages, safer conditions, and reasonable hours.

The very first Labor Day celebration is credited to New York City in 1882, when thousands of workers marched through the streets to demonstrate solidarity and pride in their labor. The idea quickly spread. By 1894, following the tragic Pullman Strike and a wave of labor unrest, Congress declared Labor Day a national holiday.

More Than a Day Off

Labor Day stands as both a tribute to the labor movement and a reminder of the dignity of work. It honors the millions of men and women whose efforts built our roads, raised our cities, produced our goods, and continue to power our economy.

As we gather with family and friends this holiday, let us also pause to remember: Labor Day is a celebration of perseverance, unity, and progress.

Registration Open for Fall 2025 Successful Rental Property Management Training

The next Successful Rental Property Management (SRPM) training session will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at the Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) Town Clock Business Center, located at 700 Main St. in Dubuque.

This training is intended to help rental property owners and managers better understand applicable laws and regulations associated with owning or managing residential rental properties. Presenters include local attorneys and representatives from the City of Dubuque’s Police, Legal Services, and Housing Departments.

Topics include:

• Writing rental agreements
• Handling evictions
• Property security
• Police services
• Rental property inspections

Participants receive a comprehensive guide to assist in maintaining a crime-free and code-compliant property.

Register online or contact NICC at 844-642-2338 and referencing class number 104198. For more information, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/srpm or contact the Housing and Community Development Department at 563-589-4231

 Candidate Filing for November 4, 2025 City/School Elections 

Individuals wanting to run for office in the November 4, 2025 City/School Election may file their papers starting, Monday, August 25. The deadline for filing is 5:00 pm, Thursday, September 18.

School board candidates and community college trustees must file nomination papers with the school board or community college board secretary respectively. City candidates must file nomination papers with their respective City Clerk.

Filing of the nomination papers must include nomination petitions and an affidavit of candidacy for each candidate. The number of signatures required on the nomination petitions is available from the City Clerk, School Board Secretary, or County Election Office, 563-589-4457.

A candidate must be an eligible elector in the school district and director district (if any) or the city and city ward (if applicable) at the time of filing nomination papers and at the time of the election.

Further information regarding city/school elections, candidates and deadlines is available under the “Upcoming Elections” tab of the Dubuque County Election Office webpage: elections.dubuquecountyiowa.gov

The City of Dubuque’s filing started on August 11th and will close this Thursday, August 28th.

Labor Day, No Transit Services

The Jule’s Fixed Route and Paratransit (minibus) services will not operate on Monday, September 1st, in observance of Labor Day. Service will resume on Tuesday, September 2nd. Have a great holiday!

 Election Advisory 

Tuesday, August 26th is the first day Dubuque County voters can submit a request to receive an absentee ballot for the upcoming November 4th City/School Election.

The request form can be obtained at the Dubuque County website, elections.dubuquecountyiowa.gov

Voters can complete the online form, print, sign and date the form and mail it to the address shown on the website.

When completing the form, voters are reminded to include their Iowa driver’s license OR Iowa non-Operator ID numbers. Voters will not have a Pin #, unless they do not have one of the previous forms of identification. Voters are urged to include their phone number and/or email address to aid the Election Office in contacting them, if there are questions about their submitted form.

Only one request form is needed from each voter. Voters are reminded that ballots will not be mailed to voters until October 15th or after.

Forms to request an absentee ballot by mail are due to the Election Office no later than Monday, October 20th at 5:00 pm, postmarks don’t count.

Voters who live in the City of Dubuque can submit an Absentee Request From for the City Primary Election. Ballots for the City of Dubuque Primary will begin to be mailed on Wednesday, September 17th. All City Primary forms are due in our office by 5:00 pm on Monday, September 22nd.

Dubuque Fire Department to Begin Accepting Applications Year-Round

The Dubuque Fire Department will begin accepting applications for employment year-round, effective September 10, 2025. Previously, the department had a singular annual application and recruitment period, usually in late summer or early autumn.

“By moving to a continuous application process, candidates will be able to submit their application as soon as they meet the qualifications and not have to wait for a designated application period,” says Dubuque Fire Chief Amy Scheller. “This change is intended to reduce that timing barrier, making the process more accessible. We encourage interested individuals to apply as soon as they are eligible.”

All Dubuque firefighter candidates must pass a candidate physical ability test (CPAT) that demonstrates they are able to perform tasks required in the position. The department regularly offers the test to potential applicants, but candidates can also be tested through another agency. A passing score on the CPAT remains active for 12 months following the test date. Applicants who complete CPAT training through another agency will be expected to provide documentation of their passing score.

The Dubuque Fire Department will hold orientation sessions for the CPAT on Wednesday, Sept. 10, at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 13, at 8:30 a.m. to provide additional information about employment and the physical ability test. Practice tests will be offered on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 11, at 9 a.m. The final test will be conducted on Saturday, Nov. 15, at 9 a.m. Those who obtain a passing score at either of the practice tests do not need to take the final exam. To register for a session or the test, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/CPAT or call 563-589-4160.

Nearly 80% of the Dubuque Fire Department’s calls for service are now medical calls, so firefighters are required to be certified paramedics. Those who already possess paramedic certification are eligible to apply for firefighter positions with the Dubuque Fire Department. Anyone possessing an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification is also eligible to apply, but must obtain the paramedic certification within two years of employment.

Additional requirements of candidates are:

• possess a high school diploma or equivalent,
• possess, or have the ability to obtain and maintain, a valid Iowa driver’s license,
• receive a passing grade on a civil service entry exam.

Applicants who have two years or more of previous fire service experience, whether paid, on-call, or volunteer, will be given preference in the application process.

Interested candidates can learn more about the Dubuque Fire Department’s application and employment procedures by visiting www.cityofdubuque.org/JoinDFD or calling 563-589-4160.

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital Designated as Intracept Procedure Center of Excellence

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital has been designated as an Intracept Procedure Center of Excellence by Boston Scientific. Dr. Timothy Miller, of the Finley Hospital Pain Clinic, specializes in the procedure and is the only physician in eastern Iowa to earn this honor.

The Intracept procedure is a minimally invasive, same-day treatment designed to alleviate chronic low back pain. The procedure disables the basivertebral nerve by using radiofrequency energy, disrupting pain signals from the affected vertebrae to the brain. By targeting the source of pain directly, this approach helps patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

“We congratulate Dr. Miller on this well-deserved recognition,” said Dr. Andrew Vanderheyden, Chief Medical Officer of UnityPoint Health – Dubuque. “His expertise and patient-first approach align with our mission to provide exceptional care to our patients. The Intracept procedure represents an exciting advancement in spine care, and Dr. Miller’s leadership ensures that more patients can benefit from this life-changing treatment.”

Being recognized as an Intracept Procedure Center of Excellence is a testament to Finley Hospital’s commitment to advancing orthopedic and spine care through innovation, expertise and patient-centered treatment. By embracing cutting-edge procedures like the Intracept procedure, Finley Hospital continues to set the standard for minimally invasive solutions that improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Dubuque’s Housing Market in Context: Insights for Iowa Residents

According to North American Van Lines’ 2025 affordability study, Iowa is currently ranked the sixth-cheapest state to live in. Iowa offers a low cost of living and has an ever-growing job market with opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. The low prices for current residents and newcomers are causing fluctuations in property value and increasing pricing competition across the state.

If you’re a current homeowner in Dubuque, here’s how the current data and trends may impact your everyday life.

Why Iowa Ranks #6

From Des Moines to Dubuque, you can expect the average cost of groceries, housing, and necessities to be significantly cheaper than the national average. North American Van Lines analyzes ten different metrics to determine which states are the most affordable to live in, including household income, mortgage rates, grocery costs, and inflation. A scoring methodology was then created to weigh the different factors. Iowa was given an index score of 89.7, which is significantly lower than Hawaii’s index score of 179.

Although the cost of living is relatively low, Iowa’s population has seen a very modest growth rate over the years. In 2024, the state added 23,074 people, a significant increase from the 15,594 people in 2023. These population fluctuations are mainly driven by international immigration and the agricultural industry. The low levels of population growth help keep housing costs low, providing more opportunities to current Iowa residents.

The Cost of Living in Dubuque 

Dubuque, Iowa, is an inviting community situated near the Mississippi River with a population of 60,000. Here you’ll find family-friendly suburbs and great public school districts. Whether you live in the Cathedral Historic District, West End, or Eagle Point, you’ll find that the overall cost of living is affordable. As of 2025, the cost of living in Dubuque, IA, is 20% lower than the state average and 9% lower than the national average.

The Dubuque Housing Market

Housing in Dubuque is incredibly affordable for families, retirees, and working professionals looking to buy their first home. In Dubuque, housing is 3% lower than the state average and 30% lower than the national average. According to Zillow, the average cost of a single-family home is $243,819. If you plan to rent, you can expect to pay around $790 to $1,000 a month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Iowa is the seventh most affordable housing market in the United States. However, the state is experiencing a housing shortage and has a deficit of around 10,736 homes as of 2024. Of that number, there is a deficit of 814 homes in Dubuque County. Since demand outweighs inventory, Dubuque homeowners are experiencing an increase in property value and equity gains. Dubuque, IA, has seen a 4.6% year-over-year increase in home value. 31.4% of homes listed have gone over the list price, and the median days to pending is only around six.

Steady Increase in Job Opportunities

Dubuque is experiencing significant growth in jobs in key markets, like manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. As of May 2025, the unemployment rate has been at a historical low of 3.5%. The local job market has experienced steady growth over the last few years, making it an intriguing place to relocate for recent college graduates and working professionals. Big businesses like John Deere and Dubuque Works have firms in Dubuque hiring for different roles in the area, making Dubuque an attractive place for newcomers.

The Economic Benefits of Relocating to Iowa  

Even with the uptick in demand and housing market competition, Iowa remains one of the most affordable places to live in the United States. Since Dubuque residents are paying less for groceries, utilities, and everyday necessities, the inexpensive living can better support your lifestyle and way of life.

If you’re looking to cut costs without sacrificing quality of life, Iowa is a great state to consider relocating to. If you’re looking to buy your first home, start a family, or retire soon, Iowa is the perfect state for you. Newcomers can look forward to affordable mortgage rates, moderate wages, and low housing demand.

While migration trends continue to trend upward, the shifts may affect Iowa and Dubuque’s real estate market. Now is the perfect time to relocate before your property value increases.

Article submitted for publication by North American Van Lines

OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE ON COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

Dubuque County relies on numerous boards and commissions for important work. In September, the Board of Supervisors will consider applications for expiring and vacant positions on several boards and commissions.

If you are interested in serving on a Dubuque County board or commission, please visit our website to complete an online application or download the 2-page fillable PDF form. For more information or to access the application, visithttps://www.dubuquecountyiowa.gov/293/Boards-Commissions

The boards and commissions with expiring and vacant positions include:

• Dubuque County Civil Service Commission
• Dubuque County Disabilities Council
• Eminent Domain Compensation Commission

Individuals wishing to be considered for an appointment in September should submit a completed application by September 5, 2025 either online, by email to Ami.Johnson@dubuquecountyiowa.gov, by fax at (563) 587-4478, or by mail to Board of Supervisors, Attn: Ami Johnson, 720 Central Ave., Dubuque IA 52001.

UnityPoint Health – Visiting Nurse Association Receives Grant to Provide Prenatal Vitamins

The UnityPoint Health – Visiting Nurse Association is the recipient of a grant to provide free prenatal multivitamins to women with limited access.

Women who are currently pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, or otherwise capable of pregnancy and have limited access to prenatal vitamins can stop by the VNA, 660 Iowa St, and receive a free bottle of prenatal multivitamins. Each bottle contains 180 doses, which is a 6-month daily supply.

“We are grateful to have Vitamin Angels as a generous partner,” said Stacey Killian, director of the VNA. “This is an exciting opportunity to be partnered with this program and have this ability to improve the health of all women we serve.”

The program will serve as an addition to the VNA’s maternal health program and Iowa’s Healthy Pregnancy Program, a free service available statewide that provides education and support to pregnant and postpartum women.

Services include but are not limited to:

Pregnancy testing

• Identification of pregnancy risk factors
• Promotion of healthy lifestyles
• Community resources
• Home visits
• Insurance applications
• Tobacco cessation referral

Counties included in service area:

• Allamakee
• Chickasaw
• Clayton
• Delaware
• Dubuque
• Fayette
• Howard
• Winneshiek

Second Quarter Enplanements Up 35% at Dubuque Regional Airport

Total enplanements at the Dubuque Regional Airport for the second quarter of 2025 increased 35% from the first quarter.

The combined total of second quarter enplanements for Denver Air Connection daily flights and Sun Country Airlines charter flights was 2,175, compared to 1,606 for the first quarter.

Enplanements for Denver Air Connection’s daily flights to O’Hare increased 27% from the first quarter to the second quarter, with those enplanements increasing from 1,325 to 1,684. This increase follows the May 16 initiation of a new daily flight schedule with 7:50 a.m. departures from Dubuque and 5:55 p.m. arrivals from O’Hare.

“These significant increases in enplanements are encouraging and we expect that trend to continue for July and August,” said Dubuque Regional Airport Manager Todd Dalsing. “The early morning departure and evening arrival flight schedule has been well-received and people using the flights have given us very positive feedback.”

Denver Air Connection’s ticketing agreements with American Airlines and United Airlines allow passengers flying from Dubuque to connect to hundreds of destinations with a single booking and security and baggage check at Dubuque Regional Airport. Flights arrive at and depart from Gate G19 (with jet bridge service) in O’Hare’s centrally located Terminal 3. The Dubuque Regional Airport’s convenience is unmatched, with free parking, a quick check-in process, and short security line.

Eagle Point Solar Achieves Ranking on Inc. 5000 List

Inc. revealed (08/12/25) that Eagle Point Solar, a leader in solar energy solutions covering Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin, ranks No. 4707 on the 2025 Inc. 5000, its annual list of the fastest-growing private companies in America.

The prestigious ranking provides a data-driven snapshot of the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses. Past honorees include companies such as Microsoft, Meta, Chobani, Under Armour, Timberland, Oracle, and Patagonia.

“Our journey to make the Inc. 5000 list for the fifth year in is a testament to the collective dedication, resilience, and unwavering innovative spirit of our team, along with community and industry supporters who continue to help fuel the growth of the solar industry,” said Jim Pullen, President and CEO of Eagle Point Solar. “It reaffirms that with an ambitious mission, focus on quality installations, and creating value for our clients, we continue to pave the way for a sustainable future.”

This year’s Inc. 5000 honorees have demonstrated exceptional growth while navigating economic uncertainty, inflationary pressure, and a fluctuating labor market. Among the top 500 companies on the list, the median three-year revenue growth rate reached 1,552 percent, and those companies have collectively added more than 48,678 jobs to the U.S. economy over the past three years.

“Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a company’s tenacity and clarity of vision,” says Mike Hofman, editor-in-chief of Inc. “These businesses have thrived amid rising costs, shifting global dynamics, and constant change. They didn’t just weather the storm— they grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy.”

For complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, location, and other criteria, go to www.inc.com/inc5000.

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital Welcomes New Board Members

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital is pleased to announce the following additions to its board of directors:

New Board members include:

• Poppy Conlon, Executive Vice President of Employee Engagement at Conlon Construction
• Ryan Burbach, Co-founder, CEO and Wealth Advisor at Friday Financial, Inc.

For a full list of Finley Hospital board members, visit unitypoint.org/locations/unitypoint-health—finley-hospital/leadership—dubuque-region

Investigation Determines Officers’ Actions Justified in July 1 Incident

On July 1, 2025, an officer of the Dubuque Police Department was involved in an officer-involved shooting while attempting to arrest a subject in Dubuque County, near Cascade. Law enforcement officers from other agencies were also involved.

As is standard protocol for all officer-involved shootings, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation conducted an investigation of the incident. Results of this investigation were submitted to the Dubuque County Attorney and the Iowa Attorney General’s Office for review and a decision on the justification of the shooting.

The County Attorney and the Iowa Attorney General’s Office have determined the officers’ actions were justified. In accordance with Dubuque Police Department policy, the officer was placed on critical incident leave following the incident and remained on leave for the duration of the investigation. Following the completion of the investigation and the County Attorney’s determination that the officers’ actions were justified, the officer will now return to full duty.

Finley Hospital Debuts New CT Scanner

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital’s new Computed Tomography (CT) scanner went live this week. This new scanner combines intelligent imaging technology with a patient-centered design, offering enhanced comfort and improved image quality.

The Siemens X.Cite features a wider bore, a camera to help technologists monitor the patient throughout the process and a tablet-based system that allows technologist to stay close to the patient to enhance communication and comfort.

“We’re proud to offer our patients this high-quality imaging conveniently right here in Dubuque,” said Charlye Jenkins, imaging manager. “This scanner will allow us to continue to provide an exceptional patient experience while also equipping our care team with the latest tools for precision and efficiency.”

CT scanners use X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross sections of the body, showing bones, organs and soft tissues. When the different images are combined, it creates a 3-D image, allowing providers to see much more detail than a standard X-ray.

Dubuque County’s “Mowing to Monarchs” Program Now Accepting New Applicants

Dubuque County Conservation is now inviting local landowners to apply for participation in its growing Mowing to Monarchs program, which helps residents transform traditional turfgrass into vibrant, native pollinator habitats known as pocket prairies or prairie meadows.

• A preselected mix of native pollinator plants or seeds
• Educational support from Dubuque County Conservation staff and Iowa State University Extension Master Gardeners
• Access to workshops, planting guides, private coaching, and funding
• A sense of community and shared environmental impact

• Must be a Dubuque County landowner
• Commit to three years of stewardship (“Sleep, Creep, Leap” growth model)
• Have a well-drained site
• Willingness to communicate with the coaching team and share progress

• Native Pockets (100 sq ft garden kits) in multiple sunlight and height configurations
• Prairie Meadows using native seed mixes for larger spaces (up to 2 acres)

Eagle Point Solar is named a 2025 Top Solar Contractor

The renewable energy industry is entering a tumultuous time, with deep federal cuts to programs that stoked astronomical growth over the past four years. Still, the solar industry broke record after record in 2024, the largest single year of new capacity added to the grid by any energy technology in over two decades. Eagle Point Solar is one of the companies that contributed to the milestone installation year and is recognized as a 2025 Top Solar Contractor by Solar Power World.

The Top Solar Contractors List is the most recognized annual listing of solar contractors in the United States. It is compiled annually by industry magazine Solar Power World to recognize the work of solar installers to decarbonize the grid and support home-grown, local energy. Companies on the Top Solar Contractors List are grouped and listed by specific service (developer, electrical subcontractor, EPC, installation subcontractor, installer, sales partner), market (commercial, community solar, residential, utility) and state by 2024 installed capacity (in kW_DC). Eagle Point Solar is collectively ranked at No. 152 in the nation. For individual categories across the nation, they are ranked No. 81 in Utility, No. 79 in Commercial and #54 in Residential. In Iowa, where Eagle Point Solar is headquartered, they rank No. 1 in all three categories.

“At a time when the federal government is doing everything it can to cut solar power down, the gigawatts put up by our 2025 Top Solar Contractors emphasize just how crucial it is to our nation’s energy mix,” said Kelsey Misbrener, managing editor of Solar Power World. “From the smallest residential projects to the largest utility-scale solar farms, these installations are keeping the lights on and keeping power affordable. We’re thrilled to recognize another outstanding class of Top Solar Contractors and look forward to persevering through legislative hurdles to celebrate our 15-year edition next year.”

“Experience matters. Having reached our fifteenth year in business, our continued success can be directly attributed to our devoted teams of solar professionals and our clients who continue to support the renewable energy industry and help us advance our pursuit in providing the highest quality solar and solar+storage solutions in the tri-states. Being named a Top Solar Contractor is a testament to the many residents and business owners who have placed their trust in us in helping to make a difference in controlling their rising energy costs and reducing their carbon footprint.” said Jim Pullen, President/CEO of Eagle Point Solar.

The country installed nearly 50 GW of new solar capacity in 2024, with solar and storage accounting for 84% of all new electric generating capacity added to the grid. Companies on the Top Solar Contractors List are undoubtedly preparing for a tough hill on the solarcoaster, but the need for quick buildout of new energy resources is only going to grow.

Eagle Point Solar employs over 100 solar professionals with an installation capacity of 11.675 (megawatts) MW of solar power in 2024. Since its founding in 2010, the company has installed over 4,500 solar arrays throughout Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin with a combined capacity of over 81 MW.

About Solar Power World

Solar Power World is the leading online and print resource for news and information regarding solar installation, development and technology. Since 2011, SPW has helped U.S. solar contractors — including installers, developers and EPCs in all markets — grow their businesses and do their jobs better.

Denver Air Connection’s Mile High Elite Rewards – Begin Earning Today!

Sign up NOW to join Denver Air Connection’s Mile High Elite Rewards program!

With this newly-launched program, every flight you take gets you closer to your next reward. All while you enjoy Denver Air’s warm, friendly, reliable service from the Dubuque Regional Airport.

It’s simple: You’ll earn one rewards point per flight segment. When you reach six points, you receive a FREE one-way flight between Dubuque and O’Hare (or many of Denver Air’s other destinations). There are no complicated tiers. No hoops to jump through. Just fly, earn, and redeem effortlessly.

Want to learn more, or start earning NOW? Visit Denver Air Connection’s website for additional details or to get enrolled in the Mile High Elite Rewards program.