The City of Marshalltown, Iowa, (pop. 27,591) is seeking proposals from qualified and experienced consulting firms to develop a new Comprehensive Plan with a 2050 outlook. The last Comprehensive Plan was completed in 2012. A copy is available at https://www.marshalltown-ia.gov/193/Comprehensive-Plan-2030. The City has also issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development of a Housing Study. Qualified firms are encouraged to submit on both RFPs and may propose how to tailor each individual project into a single project. If a firm decides to submit on only one of the projects, please describe how you might coordinate with the other firm to conduct both projects simultaneously. Goals of the comprehensive plan include: Serve as a guiding document for future growth and development, addressing key areas such as land use, economic development, housing, transportation, parks and recreation, and public services. Foster inclusive and meaningful public engagement to ensure the plan reflects the community’s needs and priorities. Establish a long-term vision for sustainable growth and development. Improve livability and quality of life through strategic planning for amenities, infrastructure, and economic opportunities. Promote balanced and responsible land use planning. Provide a framework for zoning and regulatory changes that align with the city’s vision. The purpose of the plan is to reflect and respond to the needs, values, and priorities of the community while preserving Marshalltown’s sense of place, history, and natural resources. The Comprehensive Plan should be a realistic document that can be holistically and collaboratively implemented.
