A strong downtown supports the larger community in many ways. A vital Downtown with growing property values helps build the city’s tax base, which is used to support the community parks and recreation, police and fire services, affordable housing, and health and human service agencies to name a few. A healthy downtown protects property values in surrronding residential neighborhoods for long-term stability. A city with a healthy general fund can also support programs that work towards mixed-income neighborhoods and community services that support a diverse population. When the Downtown thrives, the whole community can flourish.
The Iowa City Downtown District provides vision, leadership, and influence on a range of issues impacting Downtown. Our key priorities include fostering welcoming public spaces, drawing business interest and visitors downtown, and shaping the downtown landscape. Please refer to our advocacy on these area of work below: