Our economic development plan

As the second largest city in Iowa, we compete for a strong workforce and new business investment with communities across the Midwest.

Many of these, like Cedar Rapids, have great schools, skilled workers, competitive wages, low cost of living and offer a family-friendly backdrop. As we seek to position ourselves competitively, we must first seek to answer the question - what makes us stand out? How do we benchmark against similar communities? In essence - what is our value proposition?

The City of Cedar Rapids recognizes that economic development encompasses a community's health and vitality. A strong business community grows through a strong and diverse workforce who is attracted to communities that offer a high quality of life; is attractive, welcoming, and provides amenities that meet the needs of varying interests in our community.

A strong community requires clear vision and direction. With the support of executive leaders, invested citizens, and City Council, the city is one step closer in bringing an economic development strategy to life.

On Monday, Aug. 4, Cedar Rapids will reveal the results and recommendations from a comprehensive study conducted by one of the nation's leading economic development consulting firms, AngelouEconomics, which has worked with city staff and business leaders over the past eight months to draft a strategic plan.

The study was conducted with the help of a steering committee, input from more than 100 invested community and business leaders, and feedback from more than 1,500 citizens.

Our economic fabric uniquely positions us for strong economic growth. Through the study, Cedar Rapids has shown itself to offer exceptional quality of life, a strong business climate, workforce and educational institutions, and infrastructure that supports our economy. Together, we have conducted a candid inventory of our unique strengths and pinpointed goals to move the needle forward.

The knowledge we have gained during this process has shaped a plan hinged on three important pillars - understanding and representing our unique city, growing our workforce and growing our economy.

As Cedar Rapids continues to hone its vision for a strong future through a new comprehensive plan, economic development will serve as a critical pillar. We are excited to showcase Cedar Rapids' strengths and marketability. We hope you'll join us on Aug. 4 from 5:30 - 7 p.m. at the Cedar Rapids Public Library, as we reveal our economic development strategic plan and next steps toward a bright economic future.

' Jeff Pomeranz is City Manager for the City of Cedar Rapids. Jasmine Almoayed is the city's Economic Development Liaison. Comments: (319) 286-5349