What does the Cedar Rapids Downtown District do?
The Cedar Rapids Downtown District is a non-profit revitalization partnership committed to cultivating a dynamic downtown through business advocacy, riverfront enhancement, community development, sustainable infrastructure, flood recovery and first-rate event programming for the benefit of the greater Cedar Rapids community.

We provide key resources to champion projects and implement plans for the redevelopment of downtown - in a way that provides an extraordinary experience for patrons and celerbates the community's unique cultural, social and historic character.

A few of our priorities: 

•     Execute on major development projects
•     Restore pre-flood employment business and tax base numbers
•     Improve streetscape 
•     Accelerate the Downtown Development Corporation
•     Ensure parking capacity and improved parking operations
•     Expand community outreach program

What is a Self-Supporting Municipal Improvement District (SSMID)?

In 1986, a Self Supporting Municipal Improvement District (SSMID) was created by vote of the Downtown property owners. They agreed to tax themselves an additional assessment every year for 20 years to revitalize the area. Their action, the dedication of their leaders and the cooperation of the City of Cedar Rapids saved Downtown from decay, and helped create the vibrant Downtown neighborhood we enjoy today. The healthy mix of business, retail, culture and residential that exists Downtown now is a testimony to their foresight.

In 2006, the SSMID was renewed for another 10 years and was expanded to include several blocks of downtown Cedar Rapids west of the Cedar River.

The SSMID’s focus for 2006-2016 includes:  

• Downtown Economic Development Programs      
• Communications and Advocacy      
• Capital Improvements      
• Enhanced Maintenance      
• Parking Management