Marion is Now a ‘Blue Zone’ City

The city of Marion has become the first city in the corridor to receive the designation of a 'Blue Zone City'. The Blue Zone project is a state initiative that aims to make Iowa the healthiest state in the U.S. by next year. Marion joins cities like Waterloo and Cedar Falls who have already achieved the Blue Zone status. Cedar Rapids and Iowa City continue to work towards the goal.

Cities can get in the 'zone' by doing things like getting restaurants to offer healthier options, removing junk food from vending machines at schools and businesses and by introducing policies aimed at creating a healthier environment. Earlier this month, Marion banned the use of nicotine products in all city parks. While cities can receive funding to help achieve Blue Zone status, they don't get any once there reach the mark.