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Campaign History
In 2002, John Schmidt, of Heartland Financial USA and Campaign Chairperson of the River Valley Initiative, encouraged our business community to “roll up our sleeves” and take control of our destiny. At the time, Dubuque already had much to be proud of with a positive “can-do” attitude and a superior workforce. New four-lane highways continued to improve access to large markets and land was primed for development. But that wasn’t enough for this region’s leaders— or Greater Dubuque Development. It was time to be bold and visionary. To move Dubuque’s economy to the next level, more than a hand-to-mouth approach was needed.
The answer was the River Valley Initiative. Launched in 2003, expectations were high. The goals set by Greater Dubuque Development’s Board of Directors were even higher. The five-year campaign sought to create 5,100 new jobs and spur $200 million in commercial construction. More than 100 businesses and individuals invested $2.3 million in the effort.
Success
Fast forward to 2006. The initiative goals were reached in less than four years. The River Valley Initiative “ focused the community on job creation and business expansion,” said Dubuque Mayor Roy Buol. “It really provided the focus and funding that was needed to make it happen.”
Job Creation & New Construction
More than a year ahead of schedule, the River Valley Initiative goal to create 5,100 new jobs was not only met, but exceeded. This chart illustrates the progress of the campaign from the 2002 benchmark year though the fourth year of the initiative. The Iowa Department of Workforce Development reported a monthly average of 50,800 during the 2002 benchmark year. By December of 2006, the job rate had climbed to 56,000—an all-time record that will be eclipsed in 2007.
The River Valley Initiative goal to spur over $200 million in commercial construction was also surpassed a year ahead of schedule. From January 2003 through December 2006, commercial construction in the Greater Dubuque area totaled $262,010,875.
View the final charts (PDF) > (PDF file – sent today)
Investors
When we began our first initiative, our investors saw the potential the Greater Dubuque area had to grow beyond that which was expected. We extend a sincere thank you to all of our River Valley Initiative investors.
View the investors (PDF) > (PDF file – sent today)
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