The Cedar Falls Vision


Building from a solid foundation with a collective desire to embrace the opportunities and challenges before us, as a community we look ahead to 2020, envisioning the following Cedar Falls of the future:


Cedar Falls remains a dynamic, prosperous community situated among the fields and rivers of the Cedar Valley Iowa region in the USA. In the year 2020, Cedar Falls artfully combines small town character and heritage with global awareness and progressive adaptability. Citizens of Cedar Falls are fully engaged worldwide. This means leadership in business, education and personal growth, but also a shared sense of purpose toward sustainability and diversity.


Cedar Falls understands that the Cedar Valley and Midwestern regions, when united, are stronger than each community on its own. In 2020 Cedar Falls maintains partnerships with our neighboring communities that are mutually beneficial and mutually valued. These partnerships are a result of plans designed to create an environment that is conducive to vibrant businesses, lifelong education and personal growth and wellness.


To Increase the area’s economic base…


As a community, we need good jobs. Local development entities maintain synergy with state and regional agencies to attract new business, keep a well-trained workforce, and retain quality jobs. In 2020, Cedar Falls has continued success with developing technology / industrial park locations, including one in northern Cedar Falls.


To advance the safety, health, environment and well-being of our citizens…


A shared respect for protecting and preserving our natural environment exists among citizens of Cedar Falls in 2020. Public and private entities consider sustainability a priority. Cedar Falls residents value health and wellness and are supported in their quest with state-of-the-art healthcare services. Modified and newly-created streets were constructed to include considerations for users beyond automobiles; pedestrian and bicycle accommodations are abundant, offering safe, healthier routes to school and work.


Community services in 2020 are responsive to the needs of people who live here. Citizens feel connected to their government. Local government has built relationships, increased cooperation and promoted diversity. Cedar Falls Utilities and the City of Cedar Falls continue to offer superior service – staying on the cutting edge of sustainability and technological advancements, such as expanded recycling options.


To further develop Cedar Falls as a Center of Excellence for history, the arts, entertainment and recreation…


Neighborhoods, schools and parks in 2020 are maintained and valued by all citizens. Beautiful older homes in well-established neighborhoods exist, as well as more modern housing developments with schools, trails and green spaces nearby. In 2020, Cedar Falls boasts unique districts alive with culture and commerce. A nationally recognized downtown Cedar Falls maintains the character and charm of years gone by. The University Avenue Corridor is a major destination for citizens of Cedar Falls and neighboring communities. The College Hill neighborhood is now a thriving mixed use district.


2020 Community-Wide Vision and Strategic Plan


Green Hill Village, Thunder Ridge, Center Street Corridor, Pinnacle Prairie and Viking Road developments artfully combine assessable retail and service destinations among vibrant neighborhoods.


To provide high-quality education…


Education continues to be a cornerstone of the community, influencing businesses and individuals to locate and remain in Cedar Falls. Education at the PK-12 level offers students a world class education so they have the tools and agility to succeed in the 21st century.


In 2020, opportunities for lifelong learning and innovation are abundant. The University of Northern Iowa, Hawkeye Community College, Allen School of Nursing and other public and private institutions serve the diverse educational needs of post-high school students. Citizens can easily access a variety of services and amenities through UNI. The Cedar Falls Public Library, the Cedar Falls Historical Society and the James and Meryl Hearst Center for the Arts are educational gathering places for all ages and the Library serves as a technology access point, providing new, state-of-the-art resources.


To expand infrastructure…


The Cedar Valley championed the Waterloo Airport to re-instate it to its once regional status. Citizens of the Cedar Valley now enjoy timely and cost effective flights. Superior broadband connectivity and electrical capacity attract cutting-edge technology firms to the area. Cedar Falls offers a variety of transportation and logistical options to meet the needs of area citizens and businesses including expanded air service, new rail connections, and highways linking markets and leisure destinations. Our understanding of technology, infrastructure and sustainability form a new foundation for economic growth and development.


Cedar Falls in 2020 is and continues to be a vital, livable community with a heightened spirit of cooperation and respect for the diverse needs of its citizens. The community is committed to celebrating past successes, while continuously looking toward future opportunities and challenges. In the year 2020, we see a Cedar Falls that truly has progressed together for a brighter future.


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