$88 million proposal would update learning spaces for healthcare, skilled trades, agriculture, business and technology programs

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (August 28, 2026)–Kirkwood Community College is asking voters across its service area to consider an $88 million general obligation bond on Nov. 3 that would modernize learning spaces and technology used to prepare students for high-demand careers throughout the region.

The proposal would support programs preparing nurses, paramedics, healthcare professionals, agricultural professionals, business and information technology specialists and skilled professionals in manufacturing and the trades.

Many of the classrooms, laboratories and instructional spaces included in the proposal need improvements as technology, equipment and industry practices continue to evolve. The updates would help ensure students receive hands-on training in environments that reflect the workplaces they will enter after graduation.

For residential property owners, the estimated tax impact is approximately $9.35 per year for every $100,000 of assessed property value–less than $1 per month. Actual costs may be lower depending on available property tax exemptions and credits.

If approved, the bond would fund five primary projects:

Jones Hall – Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Trades

Renovations would improve instructional spaces, technology and infrastructure, for advanced manufacturing and skilled trades programs.

Nielsen Hall – Business and Information Technology

Improvements would include computer labs, specialized server classrooms, instructional technology and building infrastructure upgrades.

Linn Hall and the Katz Healthcare Simulation Center – Healthcare Programs

Healthcare learning spaces would receive laboratory, simulation equipment and classroom improvements designed to reflect current practices and technology.

Agricultural Operations Machinery Shop

The proposal would fund a new agricultural machinery shop and animal feed storage space, along with new roadway, parking and access improvements.

Campuswide Classroom Improvements

High-use classrooms would receive improvements including technology, furniture, lighting, power access, accessibility and safety enhancements.

“When our graduates walk into a hospital, manufacturing facility, farm operation, business or technology workplace, they need to be ready to use the equipment and technology they’ll encounter on the job,” said Kirkwood Vice President of Operations Troy McQuillen. “These projects would help Kirkwood continue preparing the skilled workforce our communities and employers rely on every day.”

Although many of the proposed projects are centered on Kirkwood’s main campus, students from across the seven-county service area train there. Some bond-funded equipment would also be provided at Kirkwood’s regional and county centers, helping students access updated technology and training opportunities closer to home.

Kirkwood graduates work throughout the region in hospitals and clinics, farms, manufacturing facilities, businesses and other organizations residents depend on every day.

For more information about the proposed bond, individual projects, estimated tax impact and frequently asked questions, go to www.kirkwood.edu/bond2026.

With more than 150 majors and programs, Kirkwood Community College boasts more than 17,000 annual college-credit students, while maintaining one of the lowest tuitions in the state. All degree-seeking students are eligible for federal financial aid and the college offers more than $3 million in scholarships each year to students from all walks of life. Kirkwood is a convenient, innovative and visionary educational leader that strives to remain affordable and accessible.