Last week, Greater Iowa City, Inc. (Greater IC) partnered with the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance on a DC Fly-In to share legislative priorities with our federal representatives. A coalition of 35 leaders from across the region representing small businesses, large employers, higher education, and our cities went to the Capitol to discuss workforce, infrastructure, and the future of our growing region.
The group had productive meetings with Senator Grassley, Representative Miller-Meeks, Representative Hinson, and staff from Senator Ernst’s office. While on the Hill, we advocated for:
- Increasing the number of visas for high-skilled workers and streamline the process to help address gaps in the U.S. workforce where we are falling behind.
- Increased funding for the Pell Grant so more students have access to post-secondary degrees and training to study high-demand careers, and expanded eligibility so students can study additional professions, including the trades.
- A Federal Aviation Administration workforce grant application from the Eastern Iowa Airport, Kirkwood Community College, and Coe College.
- Continued funding for important infrastructure projects, specifically Burlington Bridge in Iowa City, Forevergreen Road in Coralville and North Liberty, and Tower Terrace Road in Cedar Rapids and Marion.
In addition to these meetings, the DC Fly-In provided an opportunity for local leaders – from Linn County and from Johnson County, public and private – to spend time together and learn from one another. The group attended the Congressional Baseball Game for Charity at Nationals Park and a reception for DC residents with an Iowa connection, including Iowa transplants, University of Iowa alumni, and staff for the Iowa federal delegation. Thank you to the reception’s presenting sponsor the Eastern Iowa Airport and supporting sponsors, Collins Aerospace and Van Meter.
We are stronger together and grateful for the spirit of collaboration here in Eastern Iowa.
