Clear Lake demolishes Anchor Inn to clear room for Surf Ballroom Music Enrichment Center

CLEAR LAKE – Progress has been made for a much-anticipated project in Clear Lake that will enhance tourism at the Surf Ballroom.

The Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce reported this week that the “former Fiddler’s Lounge/Anchor Inn/Boathouse Bar & Grill/Golden Goose was recently demolished to make way for the new & expanded Surf Ballroom Music Enrichment Center that will be reminiscent of the original Surf Ballroom & Museum and will add event space and tour offerings to compliment the historic ballroom it will stand next to.”  The above photo, via the Clear Lake Chamber, shows the demolished Anchor inn.

NIT reported last year that the City of Clear Lake was awarded $4,370,000 toward their Clear Lake Surf District project, proudly announced by  Governor Kim Reynolds’ office. Funding for this program was made available through the federal American Rescue Plan Act – passed by Democrats in the US Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden, but opposed by Republicans and Reynolds herself.  However, this grant will assist in the expansion and relocation of Clear Lake’s Music Enrichment Center to allow for improved performances and educational experiences; gateway and streetscape enhancements around and on Buddy Holly Place; and waterfront connections from the Surf Ballroom to the lakeshore. This award represents 40% of $35.2 million in public and private investment in the Clear Lake Surf District, the city said.

“We look forward to seeing all the exciting changes that will happen around the Surf Ballroom!” the City of Clear Lake said in response to the grant announcement.

Currently, according to city hall in Clear Lake, The City of Clear Lake in partnership with the North Iowa Cultural Center & Museum (NICCM) and Surf Ballroom, has hired ATURA architecture to design the new Surf Ballroom Music Enrichment & Immersive Center (MEIC). The 2-story facility will be located directly West of the existing Surf Ballroom. The new building will be the hub and starting point for a comprehensive multi-building historical tour outlining the history of the SURF Ballroom and the district. The MEIC will include an experience theatre, exploratory & museum, gift shop, music lessons & studio wing, shared conference & meeting space, and rooftop patio & deck. The MEIC is currently under design and entering the  Design Development phase. The design is anticipated to be completed in January / February 2024 with a Spring 2024 construction start.