We are excited to announce the launch of Strategic Investment Districts in our region, a major milestone in our effort to drive sustainable, community-centered growth. These districts represent the culmination of our focus on place-based economic development, a concept we explored with our Councils last year. By leveraging the unique character of each area, we aim to attract investments, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for our residents. For more on why we’re taking this approach, revisit our post, The Case for Place-Based Economic Development.
Addressing the Need for Sustainable Economic Growth
A key concern for civic leaders is how to ensure lasting economic prosperity. This involves not just boosting jobs and incomes but also enhancing quality of life in a way that endures. We believe a solution is place-based economic development, which focuses on using a community’s unique identity and strengths as a competitive advantage.
Placemaking and place-based strategies emphasize the value of strong neighborhoods and the people who gather there, whether for work, play, or living. This is the driving force behind our new Strategic Investment Districts, which are designed to transform underutilized areas into thriving hubs.
Introducing Our Initial Strategic Investment Districts
We are proud to launch Strategic Investment Districts in Iowa City, North Liberty, and Coralville. These areas were carefully selected through collaboration with the Greater Iowa City, Inc. Executive Council, the Community Development Innovation Council, the Business Support Innovation Council, and the Economic Development Innovation Council.
To ensure these districts align with existing city goals, Greater Iowa City, Inc. staff also partnered closely with city officials on comprehensive planning and zoning. By focusing on areas where market forces alone may not drive progress, we can strategically intervene to stimulate growth and strengthen communities.
Creating a Predictable Framework for Business and Community Growth
For businesses to invest confidently, they need a clear understanding of the community’s goals and regulations. Without a strong, shared vision for neighborhoods, market forces alone can lead to fragmented development. Strategic Investment Districts provide that vision, ensuring growth aligns with both economic needs and community values.
These districts serve as a blueprint for how we can leverage an area’s unique features to enhance local prosperity. By fostering the growth of central job hubs, we also support the revitalization of surrounding neighborhoods, creating a ripple effect that benefits all.
Strategic Partnerships and Building on Existing Successes
While we introduce these new districts, we also recognize the importance of existing business improvement efforts like the Self-Supported Municipal Improvement Districts (SSMIDs) in areas such as South of 6 and the Iowa City Downtown District. These established districts have laid the groundwork for economic vitality, and our new efforts will build upon this foundation.
Join Us for the Official Announcement
We are excited to officially unveil the Strategic Investment Districts at our annual meeting on Thursday, November 21. At the event, we’ll present detailed maps of these districts, designed in collaboration with Slingshot Architects. These maps will soon be available on our website, providing a clear visual guide to these new opportunities for growth.
Get Involved in Shaping Our Community’s Future
This is your opportunity to be part of building a prosperous, inclusive future for our region. By focusing on place-based strategies, we are committed to enhancing the strengths of our neighborhoods and fostering economic growth that benefits everyone. Together, we can shape a vibrant and resilient community for years to come.
