Cedar Valley Community Leaders Boost Business Growth

New Hampton Economic Development

Many hands make light work, and communities throughout the Cedar Valley region of Iowa embody that saying by collaborating on shared goals.

Through coordinated initiatives and city-led projects, the region is accelerating economic growth and enhancing quality of life for all residents. The region’s metro area, which encompasses the cities of Cedar Falls and Waterloo, is leading the way.

“The Cedar Valley metro area is a significant economic driver for the region,” says Katy Susong, president and CEO of Grow Cedar Valley. “By enhancing the economic vitality of the metro area, we create positive ripple effects throughout the surrounding municipalities.”

Boosting Business Growth

Grow Cedar Valley, part of the Cedar Valley Regional Partnership, leads coordinated economic development efforts. Representatives from Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Butler, Chickasaw and Grundy counties work together to pool resources and expertise.

“We aim to create a more vibrant and prosperous future for all the communities involved,” Susong says. “We have been able to embark on various regional economic development strategies that benefit not just individual municipalities but the region as a whole.”

On a city level, Cedar Falls is kicking off its strategic planning initiative, The Next 20, in late 2024, while Waterloo is executing its eight-point 2030 Community Vision. Both aim to revitalize commercial corridors, improve infrastructure and promote a sense of local pride.

Waterloo is growing a skilled workforce, energizing its downtown and creating a utility for high-speed internet service. The city is also working to become a sports destination.

“By becoming ‘Sportstown USA,’ Waterloo will invest in world-class sports facilities, promoting physical health and community spirit,” says Waterloo Mayor Quentin Hart.

Cedar Falls Mayor Danny Laudick points out that it’s the region’s sense of collaboration that gives the Cedar Valley a competitive economic edge.

“Businesses naturally gravitate toward, one, communities where residents want to live and where businesses know they can attract new employees and, two, areas where businesses can depend on the continued operations and resiliency of the community,” Laudick says.

Elevating Quality of Life in the Region 

The Cedar Valley blends urban amenities and small-town charm, Susong says. This results in a region that delivers on affordability, education and career opportunities, and strong local pride.

“Residents can enjoy the vibrancy of a thriving arts scene, diverse dining options and various recreational activities while still experiencing a strong sense of community,” she says.

Several key initiatives focus on preserving and expanding these experiences. Waterloo, for starters, aims to build or renovate 800 homes in eight years as well as develop and connect neighborhoods. The goal is to remove barriers and create pathways to success for all residents.

“Together, these strategic goals outline a comprehensive vision for Waterloo’s future – one that is inclusive, dynamic and full of promise,” Hart says.

Likewise, Cedar Falls is prioritizing housing by working with developers to design options that appeal to residents in all stages of life. With Hawkeye Community College and the University of Northern Iowa in the area, the city remains focused on providing quality education.

“Cedar Falls School District just completed construction of a new state of the art high school, which will host its first class [in fall 2024],” Laudick says. “That includes starting construction on a new community natatorium that will be a showcase for Cedar Falls to host regional swim meets and offer facilities for public swimming.”

Preserving Natural Resources 

The Cedar Valley region places a special emphasis on the environment, from upgraded parks to long-term sustainability projects.

“The region is home to beautiful natural landscapes, including scenic parks, trails and waterways, which provide endless opportunities for outdoor activities,” Susong says. “The Cedar Valley’s commitment to preserving these green spaces enhances the quality of life for everyone in our area.”

Cedar Falls is an active member of the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program.

“We have policies in place to prioritize environmental sustainability when feasible, such as installing bioswales and permeable alleyways to naturally absorb rainwater runoff rather than using our stormwater system,” Laudick says. “And speaking more broadly, City Council this year is reviewing a diversified Resilience Plan that incorporates a broad set of sustainability and resilience goals.”

In Waterloo, leaders have similar priorities, incorporating sustainable practices into future plans.

“Thanks to Waterloo being a Smart City in partnership with Honeywell, our community will consider environmental stewardship as a cornerstone of development with green spaces and sustainable practices integrated into planning,” Hart says. “We are building a city infrastructure of tomorrow – today.”