Business and civic leaders from across the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City corridor traveled to Washington, D.C., earlier this week to push for federal policies vital to Eastern Iowa’s economic growth, workforce development and regional competitiveness.
The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and Greater Iowa City, Inc. organized the annual D.C. Fly-In, bringing together a coalition of public and private sector leaders to champion shared priorities and promote the region’s diverse strengths.
“Our region’s growth has been fueled by strong public-private partnerships,” said Mackenzie DeRoo, senior director of advocacy at Greater Iowa City, Inc. “We were united in our call for Congress to support policies that will help us maintain that momentum…joining together not only gives us a bigger seat at the table but demonstrates our regional unity and readiness to collaborate on national solutions.”
During the visit, the delegation met with U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, along with Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Ashley Hinson. The group also held a roundtable with congressional staff to underscore the importance of sustained federal engagement and highlight pressing regional priorities.
“We are most effective when we speak with one voice,” said Barbra Solberg, public policy strategist at the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. “Our business and civic leaders understand the value of direct dialogue with lawmakers and their staff. These relationships are vital to advancing the issues that matter most to our communities.”
The coalition focused on a range of federal policies:
- Trade and tariff reform: Remove unnecessary trade barriers to improve global market access for Iowa manufacturers, farmers and small businesses.
- Tax policy for small business: Preserve pass-through deductions and restore research and development expensing to foster innovation and reinvestment.
- Workforce and education access: Sustain research funding, expand Pell Grants, allow broader use of 529 accounts for job training, and support legislation that creates more pathways into skilled trades.
- Affordable housing: Support the Federal Housing Rehabilitation Program and streamline regulations to boost housing accessibility across the region.
- Infrastructure investment: Secure funding for regional transportation priorities including Forevergreen Road East in Johnson County, Tower Terrace Road in Linn County, the 8th Avenue Bridge in Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City’s Burlington Street Bridge.
Eastern Iowa Airport deicing facility: Back funding for a centralized deicing system to reduce environmental impact, increase operational efficiency and cut winter delays.
In addition to policy discussions, the group hosted a Capitol Hill reception that brought together members of Congress, staffers, University of Iowa and Coe College alumni, and D.C.-based professionals with Eastern Iowa connections. The delegation also attended the Congressional Baseball Game for Charity, using the opportunity to network and promote the region.
“This isn’t just about policy – this trip is about building long-term relationships,” said Marty Lenss, director of the Eastern Iowa Airport. “By coming together, we show our federal leaders our commitment to collaborative solutions that build vibrant, sustainable communities.”
For more information on the Economic Alliance and Greater Iowa City’s public policy priorities, visit
https://www.cedarrapids.org/public-policy/public-policy-priorities/ and
https://www.cedarrapids.org/public-policy/public-policy-priorities/
