2010 Community Visioning effort to launch in november

Capital Crossroads: A Vision for Greater Des Moines & Central Iowa

Tri-Chairs announced

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 201

 

Greater Des Moines – The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines and the Greater Des Moines Partnership are collaborating with local government, education, healthcare and other local business and community leaders on a strategic community and economic development planning process to create a shared vision and strategic plan for Greater Des Moines and Central Iowa.  The vision plan will be led by Tri-Chairs: Angela Connolly, Polk County Supervisor; J. Barry Griswell, Community Foundation; and Cara Heiden, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.

 

“We believe Central Iowa is at an important crossroads,” said Barry Griswell, President of the Community Foundation.  “We have vibrant neighborhoods, a strong business community, wonderful arts and recreational attractions and a great quality of life.  We know our region also has challenges, and we believe the time is right to address those challenges through a clear vision and plan for Iowa’s capital region.”

 

Invitations to participate on the vision plan steering committee were mailed this week.  The steering committee will guide and provide input to the overall planning process and serve as advisors and decision makers on a final plan.   Market Street Services, Inc., a community and economic development consulting firm, will facilitate the steering committee’s work. The firm’s Des Moines-based project director will lead the effort for Market Street.

 

“The quantitative and qualitative research will lead to a clear understanding of the region’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and competitive standing,” said Martha Willits, President and CEO of the Partnership.  “The future vitality of our region is due in large part to our ability to develop and sustain a healthy economy, a ready workforce, educational opportunities, a strong human services sector, and vibrant arts and cultural offerings.  We are excited to begin and anticipate a vigorous effort from the community.”

 

Capital Crossroads: A Vision for Greater Des Moines & Central Iowa will translate the steering committee findings into an action plan with a long-term perspective, implementation strategies and a framework for measuring results and progress. The planning process is expected to take approximately seven months, with a formal plan released in May of 2011.

 

For media inquiries or for more information, please contact Susan Ramsey at (515) 286-4954 or sramsey@desmoinesmetro.com.

 

About the Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines works to improve the quality of life for all by connecting donors with their passions, fostering links between community organizations and convening local leaders to promote the common good. The Community Foundation manages assets in excess of $155 million, administers more than 700 charitable funds created by Iowans and distributed over $22 million in grants in 2009. We thank our donors, partners and nonprofit organizations for working to strengthen our community. Live…Give…Better Together

 

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic development engine serving Central Iowa.  Supported by over 160 public and private investors, the Partnership focuses on four pillars of work: economic development, workforce attraction and retention, downtown development and regional business development.  With its 22 regional Affiliate Chambers of Commerce and 4,200 business members, the Partnership is united to drive economic growth with one voice, one mission, and as one region.

 

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