Spring 2020—VOL. 2
Downtown Streetscape and Reconstruction In April, work began on the Downtown Streetscape and Reconstruction project. Originally planned as two separate projects, the combined undertaking will incorporate substantial improvements to the downtown area. Full reconstruction—including utilities— of both West 2nd and West 3rd Streets from Washington to Main Street will be underway, while the neighboring sidewalks receive an update of their own, expanding the streetscaping design elements throughout the downtown area. The project is planned to be completed before Thanksgiving.
Aquatics 13 Community Main St. 9 Construction Map 10–11 Construction Updates 6–7 Flood Info. 2 Hearst Center 16–17 Historical Society 9 Library 18–19 Mayor’s Corner 3 Public Meetings 20 Public Safety 8 Rec Center 14–15 Tourism 5 Waste/Recycling 4
With the incorporation of new brick pavers, benches, and bike racks, the sidewalks will carry over design features from the partially completed Peter Melendy Park Project just across 1st Street. In addition, some trees are getting replaced or relocated, and every tree grate will be equipped with electrical connections for holiday lighting. The current metal benches will be accompanied with decorative concrete benches at the larger planter locations. The staging of this project will primarily impact vehicular traffic along 2nd and 3rd Streets as each block will be closed for the entirety of the removals, utility installation, and paving; pedestrian walkways will be open as much as possible. During reconstruction of these areas, the streetscaping work along Main Street will also be underway, closing individual half-block sections at one time. Temporary sidewalk access will be provided and all downtown businesses will remain open. Main Street will remain open to vehicles. Upon completion, the downtown area will have an updated appearance with decorative lighting and matching sidewalks will support walking throughout the district. With a congruent design to the updates along East 2nd Street, State Street, and Peter Melendy Park, citizens will find the district to be more welcoming and coherent than ever before. Why is the Census important? We lose approximately $2,000/year for every uncounted individual. Getting a complete and accurate count of Black Hawk County’s population determines our state’s representation in Congress. It also determines the distribution of more than $675 billion in federal funding for vital programs and services in education, health, housing, public safety, and transportation. Count yourself. Learn more at www.youcount-bhc.com.
Let’s get our share of federal funding! For the first time, the 2020 Census will be available ONLINE. The CF Public Library will have a Census kiosk.