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Home My WebLink AboutStrategic Plan Status Report July 2015 final City of Iowa City July 2015 Strategic Plan Status Report 0 Contents City of Iowa City Organizational Profile ............................................................................................................................................. 2 Strategic Plan Process ........................................................................................................................................................................ 3 2014-2015 Strategic Planning Calendar .......................................................................................................................................... 3 Core Values for City Employees* .................................................................................................................................................... 4 Strategic Plan Priorities ................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Strategic Economic Development Activities ...................................................................................................................................... 5 A Strong Urban Core .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Healthy Neighborhoods ................................................................................................................................................................... 10 A Solid Financial Foundation ........................................................................................................................................................... 16 Enhanced Communication and Marketing ...................................................................................................................................... 17 Notable Projects and Initiatives Incorporating the Inclusive and Sustainable Values ..................................................................... 19 Other Significant Projects and Initiatives ........................................................................................................................................ 22 1 City of Iowa City Organizational Profile Iowa City is governed by an elected city council of seven members: four council members at-large and three district members. The council is responsible for appointing the city manager, city attorney, and city clerk. The city manager serves as the chief administrative officer for the organization. The city manager implements the policy decisions of the city council, enforces city ordinances, and appoints city officials, as well as supervises the directors of the city’s operating departments. Iowa City employs approximately 600 full-time staff members to execute the city council’s policies and provide public services to over 70,000 residents. The City provides numerous utilities to its residents including water, sewer, stormwater, and garbage and recycling services. In addition, the city provides many other services including public safety, building and housing inspections, parks and recreation, street maintenance, engineering, development services, transportation, local cable television programming, and senior services. In 2008, Iowa City was designated as a City of Literature by UNESCO becoming the third city recognized internationally and the first and only U.S. city to date. Since 2014 the City has been recognized in over twenty “Best Of” publications including “The Best Small City for Educated Millennials” by Business Insider, “The Best City for College Grads” by the Huffington Post, and “The Best City for Successful Aging” and “Number Five Best Performing Small City” by the Milliken Institute. City Council Members Matt Hayek, Mayor Susan Mims, Mayor Pro Tem Rick Dobyns, District A Terry Dickens, District B Jim Throgmorton, District C Michelle Payne, At-large Kingsley Botchway II, At-large 2 Strategic Plan Process The strategic planning process involves multiple steps, including gathering input from the general public, City staff, and the City Council. The planning process focused on 1) Issues, Concerns, Trends and Opportunities 2) On-Going or Committed Projects 3) Significant and New Projects, Programs, Policies and Initiatives and 4) Organizational Effectiveness. The 2014-2015 Strategic Plan outlines the primary areas of focus for the community. Numerous additional projects, initiatives and policy matters that are not specifically mentioned in this document have been carried out or will also be addressed as appropriate. The City staff continues to coordinate various actions that contribute to successful outcomes in each of the identified focus areas. This Status Report notes each of the focus areas, explains the major accomplishments to date, and presents a sample of future plans to further these goals. 2014-2015 Strategic Planning Calendar Fall 2013 Public and City staff input presented to the City Council Strategic planning work session with the City Council Winter 2013 Adoption of the Strategic Plan 2014-2015 Implementation of action items Periodic status updates Fall 2015 Final action steps completed Creation of a new 2016-17 Strategic Plan 3 Core Values for City Employees* Strategic Plan Priorities Fostering a more INCLUSIVE and SUSTAINABLE Iowa City through a commitment to: Strategic Economic Development Activities A Strong Urban Core Healthy Neighborhoods A Solid Financial Foundation Enhanced Communication and Marketing Note: The City Council has expressed that inclusivity and sustainability are guiding principles that should be considered when working within each of the stated priorities Integrity Mean what you say Do as you say Be honest Be ethical Be consistent Be committed Communication Be expressive Provide feedback Be friendly/open Be clear Be authentic Be reflective Listen Leadership See the whole picture Take risks Show passion Be respectful Be tactful Engage Empower others Celebrate others Be collaborative Be supportive Inspiration Encourage others Help set the pace Be excited about the future Show faith in your team Be visionary Embrace new concepts Don’t quit before you start Life-Long Learning Be self-directed Show creativity Find solutions from multiple sources Seek to learn Evaluate and adjust when needed Share knowledge Practice what you learn *Core values were developed by Iowa City staff during the 2012-13 strategic plan year 4 Strategic Economic Development Activities Goal: The City strives to expand and diversify the economic base of the community, particularly in existing planned commercial and industrial areas that have established supporting infrastructure. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Towncrest • Completed the Williams Street streetscape improvements in conjunction with the new commercial buildings on Muscatine and Williams • Initiated the Wade Street water main replacement project • Awarded a façade grant to Iowa City Hospice • Improved appearance of the Kerr-McGee redevelopment parcel • Approved plans and provided assistance to enhance the design of new apartment building which replaced a blighted parcel on Muscatine Ave. • Continue to market the Kerr-McGee property for redevelopment • Identify further redevelopment options in the district • Continue to offer façade improvement opportunities • Expand streetscape enhancements as redevelopment occurs • Consider improvements to Towncrest Drive Iowa City Marketplace and First Avenue Retail Corridor • Completed significant public improvement projects on Lower Muscatine Avenue, Sycamore St. and First Avenue to improve storm water management, traffic flow, bicycle/pedestrian accommodations and aesthetic appeal of the corridor • Initiated the First Avenue grade separation project which will be completed in 2016 and includes a road diet from Bradford St. to Highway 6. • Entered into a development agreement with mall ownership to improve the site and attract new tenants. • Lucky’s Market opened as new anchor tenant in July of 2015 • Continue to work with the Iowa City Marketplace ownership group to revitalize the property and fill vacant spaces • Support other redevelopment efforts in the corridor 5 Strategic Economic Development Activities (continued) Goal: The City strives to expand and diversify the economic base of the community, particularly in existing planned commercial and industrial areas that have established supporting infrastructure. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Highway 6 / Highway 1 • Completed environmental assessments on city owned land at Riverside Dr. and Highway 6 and began relocating public facilities from the property • Initiated a master plan update for the new Public Works campus to aid in the relocation of public property from Riverside Dr. and Highway 6 • Facilitated the sale of all remaining airport properties in Aviation Commerce Park and retired all airport debt with the proceeds • Completed work on the Highway 1 pedestrian trail project • The USPS completed their relocation to Pepperwood Plaza • Continue to relocate public facilities from the property at Riverside Dr. and Highway 6 • Facilitate redevelopment of vacant or underutilized properties along the corridor • Work with the Airport Commission on the development of unused south airport property • Plan for the extension of the Highway 1 pedestrian trail to Mormon Trek Blvd. 420th Street Industrial Park • Completed the public infrastructure improvements and achieved shovel ready status from ICAD and the State of Iowa • Continue to market the property in coordination with ICAD • Evaluate north 73 acres as a potential site for a youth sports complex 6 Strategic Economic Development Activities (continued) Goal: The City strives to expand and diversify the economic base of the community, particularly in existing planned commercial and industrial areas that have established supporting infrastructure. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Moss Ridge Campus and Northgate • Worked with Moss Ridge Campus and Pearson to negotiate an access road to the property and secured a $1.9 million RISE grant for the project • Initiated construction on the access road with completion anticipated in the fall of 2015 • Approved an expansion of the Northgate Office Park and received a $283,000 State RISE grant to facilitate a road extension • Complete the platting of Moss Ridge Campus development lots • Assist with private development issues as needed Other Economic Development Efforts • Finalized a land trade with Hy-Vee to facilitate their relocation and expansion on the former Robert’s Dairy property on North Dodge Street. • Executed an agreement with ALPLA to expand their Iowa City operations and bring high quality jobs into the community • Cooperation with significant UI projects including the School of Music, Art Building West, Hancher, Children’s Hospital, N. Dodge medical clinic and two new dormitories • Launched a new micro-loan fund program for low-moderate income entrepreneurs • Achieved a 6.6% reduction in the City property tax rate over the last four years • Continued sponsorship of Mission Creek and Entre Fest • Initiated discussions with potential broadband utility providers • Revised the City’s economic development policies to better match strategic plan objectives • Continue to explore a ‘Corridor Compact’ with neighboring communities • Expand City presence at the ICAD Co-Lab and encourage young entrepreneurs to grow their business in the local community • Work with ICAD to expand the co-lab concept in Iowa City • Help in the planning of the 2016 Entre Fest in Iowa City 7 A Strong Urban Core Goal: It is the City’s goal to promote growth of the Downtown and Near Downtown areas in a manner that builds upon the existing vibrancy of the region, serves persons of all ages and backgrounds, and complements the surrounding neighborhoods and University community. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Downtown Iowa City and Northside Marketplace • Notable continued partnerships with the ICDD including BenchMarks, TreeHuggers, advertising, power washing, expanded WiFi, Coffee with a Cop, support of their ‘Friends’ fundraising effort, retail assessment, Northside Marketplace lighting and a dedicated police officer position in the district • Successfully completed two full years of the “First Hour Free” parking initiative and expanded parking for automobiles and mopeds on Washington and Dubuque Streets. • Assisted Telepharm with downtown office space • Executed an agreement with Meta Communications to expand their business to the Park at 201 and added high quality jobs in the community • Facilitated significant private redevelopment efforts including the MidwestOne historic building, Grossix building, and the Northside Commons project • Completed three rounds of awards for the Building Change façade grant program • Adopted the Downtown and Pedestrian Mall Streetscape Plan and commenced work on phase one design • Changed signage regulations to allow for sandwich board signs • Executed a development agreement for the Chauncey project at College and Gilbert • Continue to work with the private sector to strengthen and diversify the economic base • Implementation of the Downtown Streetscape plan, including the new ped mall public art piece • Consider additional policy changes that can assist in meeting the shared goals of the City and ICDD (signage, dumpster/alleys, café regulations) • Evaluate multi-use building with New Pioneer Co- op on the Recreation Center parking lot • Work with the ICDD on a new waste collection and recycling strategy downtown • Launch a pilot program utilizing solar trash and recycling compactors downtown • Partner with the ICDD on a review of design and signage guidelines downtown 8 A Strong Urban Core (continued) Goal: It is the City’s goal to promote growth of the Downtown and Near Downtown areas in a manner that builds upon the existing vibrancy of the region, serves persons of all ages and backgrounds, and complements the surrounding neighborhoods and University community. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Downtown Iowa City and Northside Marketplace (continued) • Resurfaced the playground area as one of many master plan quickstart projects • Contracted with Shelter House for monthly supplemental cleaning efforts as well as coinciding with special events, festivals and home football games • Completed a retail study with the ICDD and work with their new Retail Development Director • Started “#ThankYouIowaCity”, which is a card that Officer Schwindt, or other officers working in the downtown area, can hand out to someone for doing something to make downtown a great place. A number of downtown businesses have signed on to sponsor the project and offer thank you rewards • New and expanded special events including One Book Two Book, Soul Fest, and Oktoberfest • Commenced planning for an Iowa City stop on the 2015 RAGBRAI trip between Coralville and Davenport • Create a multi-modal traffic model to better evaluate street designs • Evaluate Jefferson Hotel repurposing with the UI • Launch a mobile payment application for parking • The Library will present a multi-faceted program for all ages centered around the theme of music and utilizing a variety of downtown venues • Consider lease agreement for the Library commercial space that will support enhanced entrepreneurial activity downtown 9 A Strong Urban Core (continued) Goal: It is the City’s goal to promote growth of the Downtown and Near Downtown areas in a manner that builds upon the existing vibrancy of the region, serves persons of all ages and backgrounds, and complements the surrounding neighborhoods and University community. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Riverfront Crossings • Finalized the Burlington Street Dam and Iowa River Restoration study, as well as initial park planning for the North Wastewater Plant site • Developed the form based code and introduced changes to parking regulations • Partnered with MidwestOne Bank on a new facility that is nearing completion • Secured an $8.5 million state flood mitigation grant and started demolition of the old wastewater plant • Negotiated a redevelopment agreement for the Court / Linn site and will present it to Council in July 2015 • Entered into development agreements for the Kinseth Hotel, 316 Madison, Sabin Townhomes and Riverside Drive apartment projects • Entered into a lease purchase agreement for the new parking facility on Harrison Street • Commenced work on the Harrison Street reconstruction project • Finalize the Riverfront Park master plan process • Consider land acquisition strategies to return properties in the 100 year flood plain to open space and secure ROW needed for road reconfigurations • Plan public improvements for Riverside Drive, including streetscape enhancements and a pedestrian tunnel through the railroad embankment • Work with the University of Iowa on the School of Music and Art Museum projects • Implement the Clinton / Burlington intersection improvements • Consider new affordable housing policies 10 Healthy Neighborhoods Goal: The City aims to invest in and deliver core services to neighborhoods in a manner that enhances overall stability and maintains the intended character while facilitating new opportunities to improve the quality of life. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Land Use Regulations • Completed annexations for two new elementary schools in Iowa City • Created a new Horace Mann Conservation District • Amended the City Code to allow for Outdoor Service Areas in residential and mixed-use zones associated with restaurants • Initiated the South District planning effort • Consider recommendations from the South District Plan update 11 Healthy Neighborhoods (continued) Goal: The City aims to invest in and deliver core services to neighborhoods in a manner that enhances overall stability and maintains the intended character while facilitating new opportunities to improve the quality of life. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Public Infrastructure • Enhanced CIP funding for neighborhood parks • Installed the Sycamore Greenway trail head public artwork in the Grant Wood neighborhood • Completed a master plan for Willow Creek and Kiwanis parks • Purchased the Chadek property and converted it to infill parkland • Secured future infill parkland through the Palisades development on North Dubuque Road • Working with the ICCSD to create a community center partnership at the new south elementary • Developed new park signage at multiple locations • Pursued neighborhood park improvements at Court Hill Park, Tower Court, Reno Park and Highland Park • Converted South Governor Street (Bowery to Burlington) from one-way to two-way traffic • Ensure that future CIP funding is sufficiently provided for core neighborhood improvements • Continue to promote the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program • Continue the Program for Improving Neighborhoods (PIN) grant program • Install a new playground feature at Mercer Park • Implement phase one plan for improvements to Willow Creek and Kiwanis parks • Continue to rollout the new park signage • Develop a master plan for Lower City Park • Planning to launch a Library Bookmobile program in FY 2017 to service local neighborhoods. 12 Healthy Neighborhoods (continued) Goal: The City aims to invest in and deliver core services to neighborhoods in a manner that enhances overall stability and maintains the intended character while facilitating new opportunities to improve the quality of life. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Private Building Stock • Purchased fifty-six homes for the UniverCity program since 2011. Fifteen homes were rehabilitated and sold in FY14 and 15. There are currently five purchase offers pending and seven homes remaining to rehabilitate and/or sell. • Continued the GRIP rehabilitation program. Assisted fifteen existing homeowners over the last two years with five more pending. • Used Community Development Block Grant and HOME funds to rehabilitate fifty-nine homes with eleven more pending. Twenty-two homes were located in targeted neighborhoods for rehabilitation. • Continue to obtain funding resources to continue UniverCity, GRIP and targeted neighborhood improvement programs. • Expand UniverCity program with the acquisition of up to five homes in FY16. • Research a Green Building pilot program. 13 Healthy Neighborhoods (continued) Goal: The City aims to invest in and deliver core services to neighborhoods in a manner that enhances overall stability and maintains the intended character while facilitating new opportunities to improve the quality of life. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Nuisance Mitigation • Updated the rental disclosure forms to better inform tenants of local ordinances and increased the fine for non-compliance with the form requirement • Increasingly used existing code provisions to require annual property inspections when nuisance or criminal complaints are received • Added more City departments to ICgovXpress to be more responsive to neighbor issues, including the Police Department, which is able to respond 24/7. • Continue to utilize the new neighborhood liaison position in the ICPD to work with Neighborhood Services, Housing & Inspection Services, landlords, tenants, and associations on nuisance related matters • Restructured staff in Neighborhood and Development Services to improve response to nuisance issues • Provided training to local Association of Realtors on issues related to property management, specifically relating to occupancy and tenant behavior. • Continue outreach to neighborhoods to promote ICgovXpress and the Neighborhood Liaison Police Officer program 14 Healthy Neighborhoods (continued) Goal: The City aims to invest in and deliver core services to neighborhoods in a manner that enhances overall stability and maintains the intended character while facilitating new opportunities to improve the quality of life. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Open Stakeholder Communication • Assisted neighborhood associations in reestablishing a more active Neighborhood Council and provided necessary resources to respond to the interests as determined by the membership. • Formed new neighborhood associations in the Mercer Park / Dover Street neighborhood and in the Mark Twain neighborhood (Lucas Farms) • Helped establish a business association in the Gilbert Court area to address growing public safety concerns • Consolidated the HIS and Planning Departments to streamline communication with residents and businesses • Initiated a “Coffee with a Cop” program and held several sessions throughout the community • Continued staff outreach to various neighborhood associations and assisted with communications as appropriate • Library staff continues weekly visits to the Neighborhood Centers to visit with children and conduct outreach • Implemented use of the social media platform, Nextdoor, to enhance communication between the City and neighborhoods • Continue to expand ICgovXpress to other parts of the organization • Continue to work with the ICCSD on facility issues, including exploring partnerships to enhance facilities and offer before and after school programming, and increasing participation in the Library Summer Reading Program • Continue to work with the Neighborhood Council to provide resources and guidance to address their interests. Updated Planning Documents • Initiated a new south district planning effort anticipating the new Alexander Elementary School opening in 2015. • Complete South District Plan update 15 A Solid Financial Foundation Goal: The City aim to create a strong and sustainable financial foundation that will provide needed stability and flexibility while utilizing taxpayer dollars in the most efficient and responsible manner. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Financial Policies • Adopted economic development policies to help guide the use of public incentives • Reduced the municipal property tax rate in each of the last four years (6.6% decline) • Reduced debt service payments by nearly 28% since 2013 • Created an emergency reserve fund to protect against rapid revenue loss or assist with disaster mitigation needs • Evaluated fee structures of various services and established new revenue benchmarks to reduce property tax dependency • Increased minimum fund balance policy from 25% to 30% • Retired all airport related debt • Take steps to deal with the impacts projected from the State of Iowa’s property tax relief legislation • Continue to reduce the property tax rate and explore options for diversification of our revenue sources • Continue to review service charges to ensure that rates are sustainable and sufficiently recover costs • Evaluate the impact of the gas tax increase and allocate appropriate funding for projects in the upcoming budget cycle • Plan to call 2008A GO bonds in July and save significant interest expense Financial Analysis and Communication to the Public • Maintained the City’s AAA bond rating from Moody’s • Received the GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation award for the first time in over twenty years in 2012 and received subsequent awards again in 2013 and 2014 • Received the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 29th consecutive year • Continue to enhance the budget document and associated financial reporting • Incorporate performance measures that are linked to the City Council’s strategic plan 16 Enhanced Communication and Marketing Goal: The City strives to be a high-functioning, customer service orientated organization that actively supports and engages stakeholders through clear, open and innovative communication methods. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Coordinated Communications • Established a growing social media presence through multiple platforms • Launched a redesigned website and e- subscription service • Participate in new student and transfer student orientations at the University of Iowa • Received a top score from the Sunshine Review for excellence in website transparency • Library card registration and other program materials made available in Spanish. Outreach visits by Library staff include use of translators on occasion • Created a presence to interact with residents and visitors at the 2015 Arts Fest, Juneteenth celebration and Johnson County Fair • Partnered with University of Iowa classes for improved student outreach and engagement • Continue efforts to better coordinate messages coming from various city departments • Continue to implement the Munis centralized computer software program • Further integrate the use of social media into the organization and introduce more interactive efforts that engage key staff and elected officials in social media • Plan for electronic newsletter options for Library users • Senior Center to explore shift to more electronic communications • Planning to participate in the 2015 Soul Fest in order to engage with residents and visitors • Hire a new Community Engagement Specialist in the Parks and Recreation Department to enhance communication from that department • Continue local outreach at public events 17 Enhanced Communication and Marketing (continued) Goal: The City strives to be a high-functioning, customer service orientated organization that actively supports and engages stakeholders through clear, open and innovative communication methods. Targets for Actions Accomplishments Future Plans Customer Service Orientation • Initiated front lobby remodel project to provide a more welcoming environment for the public. • Expanding the electronic development plan submission process that was initiated in 2013 • Initiated an instantaneous email alert to contractors after building inspections have been completed • In coordination with the University of Iowa and Coralville, launched a transit trip planner application http://planner.ebongo.org • Launched ParkMe smart phone application • Installed accessible door openers on second floor restroom doors of the Library • Library circulation policies reviewed from customer point of view; fine structure simplified, number of holds increased. • Installed a new Iowa DOT self-serve kiosk at the Library • Continue to examine ways to streamline interactions between the city and public • Expand instantaneous email alert to housing inspections • Partner with the Post Office to host passport fairs at the Library 18 Notable Projects and Initiatives Incorporating the Inclusive and Sustainable Values Category Project Status Inclusive City Park Pool ADA Improvements The project was substantially completed prior to the 2014 summer swimming season. Curb Ramp Program An inventory has been completed and a work plan is being developed. The City Council doubled the funding for repairs in FY 2015 and additional CDBG funds were committed to repairs downtown and in low to moderate income census tracts. 1105 Challenge Grant The 1105 Project has been completed and they are operational. Fast Trac Funding The City funded an extension of Fast Trac through the Diversity Focus organization. Ad Hoc Diversity Recommendations The recommendations have been received and staff is actively working on implementation. The “DIF” report provides significant detail on actions the Police Department has taken related to these recommendations. There are numerous outreach initiatives that have been started or expanded in the last two years. Welcoming City Initiative The City has officially signed up for this program and has joined a network of other cities aiming to create a more welcoming, immigrant- friendly community. Mayors for the Freedom to Marry Coalition Mayor Hayek has joined over 400 other Mayors in this effort to support equal marriage rights for all people. Municipal Equality Index Received the top score in the State of Iowa on the Municipal Equality Index rating from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Downtown Banners The City partnered with ICAD, CVB, ICDD and the University of Iowa to install new banners that feature a diverse mix of local residents and several languages. The banners extend a welcome to new students and all residents and express the City’s inclusive values. Also, the Housing Authority partnered with the Affordable Homes Coalition and Association of Realtors for fair housing/affordable housing banners that were up for the month of April 2015. Fair Lending Training The Human Rights Commission and staff coordinated this training for area realtors and lenders. The program was administered by staff from the John Marshall Law School and stems from a recommendation in the Impediments to Fair Housing report. Court Hill ADA Improvements This sidewalk infill project created an accessible path from Court Street to Friendship Street through Court Hill Park. Staff Training In 2014, staff responsible for frequent interactions with the public undertook cultural competency training from Culture Friendly Consulting. Transportation Services staff participated in a training session titled “Building Diversity Skills in the Transit Workplace”, which was offered by the National Transit Institute. In 2015 a training entitled “Diversity in the Workforce” was held for employees. 19 Category Project Status Inclusive (cont.) International Student Orientation Staff worked with the University of Iowa and now participates in the international student orientations and other related events throughout the year. This gives the City a chance to welcome new international students and break down communication barriers. Senior Center Training Promoted multiculturalism and inclusiveness by hosting a professionally facilitated diversity training session during the Senior Center’s annual members meeting. Police Department Community Outreach The Police Department has initiated several new outreach programs including a basketball program at South East Junior High, a youth police academy and participation in events such as national Night Out, Juneteenth and others. Public Safety Youth Academy Police, Fire and Johnson County Ambulance Service partnered to create this academy that aims to get more youth from diverse backgrounds interested in public safety careers Arabic Library Materials The Library has added a small collection of Arabic language materials to its collection Sensory Story Time Kits The Library acquired four kits that are designed to make story time more accessible and enjoyable for children with autism spectrum disorder Equity Report Issued the City’s first Equity Report and created a corresponding plan for actions. Sustainable University of Iowa IISC Partnership Year one of the program has been completed and based on its success a second year was initiated. New Sustainability Office Shifted the focus of the Environmental Coordinator in Public Works to a Sustainability Coordinator in Neighborhood and Development Services. Edible Landscape Projects The City partnered with Backyard Abundance to receive a $23k grant for public orchard project that expands the Edible Forest Maze in Wetherby Park. A second grant for $24k was received to install edible landscaping around the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center. Heartland Network Climate Adaptation and Urban Ag Initiatives Iowa City has joined with several other Midwestern communities and received a grant to work with climatologists to better understand and prepare for challenges associated with climate changes. A second grant focuses on urban agriculture best practices Animal Shelter Committed to adding a geo-thermal component to the Animal Shelter project. LED Streetlight Conversions Staff is actively converting city owned streetlights to LED. Similarly, Mid-American is actively converting their lights to LED. Prescription Drug Program The Police Department sought and was awarded a grant from CVS to install a prescription drug container in their lobby. This program provides the public a 24/7 option to keep old prescriptions out of the waste stream and our waterways. 20 Awareness and Discount Programs Staff continues to work with local retailers to offer discounted rain barrels and compost bins to the community. As part of Earth Day events staff also hosted educational programs on gardening, composting, bike maintenance and other topics at the East Side Recycling Center. Electric Vehicle Purchase Purchased the City’s first electric vehicle for use at the South Wastewater Plant Earthbox Project The Senior Center started this program which saw members plant and maintain vegetable gardens at senior assisted living and day-care facilities targeting low-income and frail seniors. Blue Zones The City continues its support of the Blue Zones program and has adopted numerous policies and pursued multiple projects to further the Blue Zones effort. Compost Program Initiated a residential compost pilot and received the EPA’s Food too Good to Waste award for its success STAR Rating System Selected to participate in the STAR Community Rating system to better understand progress on sustainability goals Solar Compactors Received a grant to defray some costs for four new solar trash and recycling units to be located in downtown 21 Other Significant Projects and Initiatives Category Project Status Public Facilities Animal Shelter Construction will be complete in the summer of 2015 City Hall Lobby Upgrade and NDS Improvements Work is underway and due to be completed in late 2015 or early 2016 South Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion Construction is substantially complete Police Storage and Fire Training Temporary storage space has been secured. A more permanent solution is being contemplated on the new Public Works campus Riverfront Crossings Parking Facility A lease purchase agreement has been executed for a new facility to be located on Harrison Street in the Riverfront Crossings district. 22 Other Significant Projects and Initiatives (continued) Category Project Status Flood Recovery Gateway Project National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Review Process has been completed. Project letting expected in the upcoming winter with construction in 2016-2018. West Side Levee Construction completion expected in 2015. Rocky Shore Flood Gate/Lift Station Construction completion expected in 2015. North Wastewater Treatment Plant Demo The plant has been decommissioned and an $8.5 million state flood mitigation grant has been secured. Work has commenced with mercury and asbestos remediation complete and demolition expected to be complete in 2015. Peninsula Secondary Access Staff is working with the property owner to establish the ability to install an emergency access in the event a flood would close Foster Road. Buy-out Program Applied for additional funding to remove more properties from the 100 year flood plain 23 Other Significant Projects and Initiatives (continued) Category Project Status Public Infrastructure Burlington/Clinton Intersection This project is being designed. Construction is delayed due to extensive redevelopment in the area. Burlington/Madison Intersection Construction is delayed due to extensive redevelopment in the area. Downtown Streetscape The plan has been adopted and implementation activities have commenced. Washington Street improvements are planned for 2016. Dubuque Street Pedestrian Bridge I-80 Construction completion expected in 2015. 24 Other Significant Projects and Initiatives (continued) Category Project Status Public Infrastructure (cont.) First Avenue Railroad Grade Separation Construction has commenced with completion expected in late 2016. First Avenue Storm Sewer Phase 2 The project has been completed. Moss Ridge Road Construction completion expected in 2015. Lower Muscatine Road Reconstruction Construction is complete. Park Road 3rd Lane The design is being done as part of the Gateway Project and will be constructed with that project. Harrison Street Reconstruction Construction completion expected in 2015. Sycamore Street Construction completion expected before the opening of Alexander Elementary School Mormon Trek Road diet and turn lane addition expected in late 2015 or early 2016 25 Other Significant Projects and Initiatives (continued) Category Project Status Parkland Development Kiwanis / Willow Park Improvements Master plan has been completed. Phase 1 construction to be completed in 2015. Ned Ashton House The facility is open for rentals and final grounds improvements from Project Green are substantially complete. Normandy Drive Restoration The final construction phase is currently underway. Mercer Park Playground The project will be completed in 2015. Neighborhood Park Improvements Work is underway at Highland and Tower Court parks. 26 Other Significant Projects and Initiatives (continued) Category Project Status Other Utility Billing and ERP Software Staff is currently implementing the software. Completion is expected in early 2015. Kronos Timekeeping A conversion to electronic timekeeping is underway with completion expected by the end of 2015. 27