Cedar Rapids one step closer to being named a Blue Zone

Cedar Rapids is one business closer to being named a Blue Zone.

The Gazette Company was announced as the 10th top community-identified worksite in Cedar Rapids to join the Blue Zones Project. The designation means Cedar Rapids has completed another step in its certification process to become a Blue Zone.

'It really is one more tool for our employees to live their best lives,” said Jim Burke, vice president of operations at The Gazette Company.

The Blue Zones Project is a nationwide initiative that aims to create healthier communities by changing the environment, policies and social networks.

So far, enough of the city's grocery stores and worksites have received Blue Zone designations. But before the city as a whole can become a Blue Zone, more citizens, restaurants and schools will need to join the initiative.

Blue Zones are based on a book by National Geographic writer Dan Buettner, which examined people who live longer and the characteristics that might have contributed to their longevity.

'I'm really pleased with the progress,” said Cedar Rapids Mayor Ron Corbett. 'This started from basically nothing, and now we have much more community interest, and more importantly, it goes beyond interest, it goes to community involvement.”

Marion and Iowa City are also working to complete the steps to become a Blue Zone.