FY 2024 City Council Priorities | Q2 Report

The Cedar Rapids City Council meets annually to establish goals for the City’s overall direction. City staff track progress in the resulting key priority areas listed below on pages 4–12. The following report provides public transparency with an emphasis on communication; ensures alignment with the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Envision CR; and assists in the effective prioritization of resources.

Flood Control System/Greenway

CRST Building Pump Station

In partnership with the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the City of Cedar Rapids completed construction on the fifth pump station in the Cedar River Flood Control System Master Plan. The pump station is enclosed in the CRST building’s first floor, along the east bank of the Cedar River. When underground storm sewer and drainageway gates are closed due to river flooding, any rainwater that typically flows through the landscape and into the river no longer has an outlet. All this rainwater would become trapped behind the FCS, with a potential to cause a large area of Cedar Rapids to flood. This type of flooding is called interior-drainage flooding. The CRST Building pump station will work with other pump stations in the system to prevent interior-drainage flooding — by pumping rainwater over the floodwall and into the river. The successful completion of this project is a major milestone for the protection of homes and businesses in the downtown area.

First Avenue East & 12th Avenue East Roller Flood Gates

Flood Control System at Tree of Five Seasons Park

First and 12th Avenues are two major roadways in the core of Cedar Rapids with newly completed roller gates. When rolled into the closed position for flood events, the gates are strong enough to withstand the forces of floodwater and any potential debris that may impact them. We can roll the gates shut in less than an hour, allowing the active roadways to remain open to traffic for a longer duration leading up to a flood. A future project will add a similar roller gate to the west end of the First Avenue bridge; the west end of the 12th Avenue Bridge carries traffic over a floodwall that is under construction. The gates store in place on the upstream side of the roadway. Decorative panels installed on the gates compliment the historic character of Downtown and the New Bohemia district. We held a ribboncutting event for the 1st Avenue East Gate in 2023; we will hold an event for the 12th Avenue Gate this spring to commemorate project completion.

Construction of Flood Control System elements at the Tree of Five Seasons Park began in late 2023. Improvements over the next year and a half will include building the A Avenue Pump Station and extending the floodwall from First Avenue SE to under I-380. The City’s Tree of Five Seasons monument will be elevated and relocated to the center of the park. The project is under construction with the United States Army Corps of Engineers; completion is estimated in mid-2025.

Community Rating System (CRS) Review Completed

The City undertook a successful five-year review of its participation in the Community Rating System (CRS). The City’s Floodplain Administrator led the review team, with assistance from Development Services staff and several other City Departments; FEMA was the reviewing agency. Participating in the CRS provides our community with access to flood-insurance policies through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The CRS offers discounted flood insurance to policy holders in proportion to the City’s performance against review metrics. FEMA reviews a wide range of categories — from floodplain data storage and management, to floodplain regulations and enforcement, floodprotection assistance, and floodplain management public outreach. FEMA will inform the City of Cedar Rapids of its CRS rating and corresponding policy discount within the next six months.

CRST Pump Station

1st Avenue Roller Gate

Conference Presentations

Virginia Floodplain Management Association (VFMA) Annual Conference

City of Cedar Rapids Floodplain Administrator Mathew Langley participated at the VFMA Annual Conference as an Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) Larry Larson Speaker Series Panelist. The panel featured Federal, State, and Local government experts and academic perspectives, giving Cedar Rapids a platform to connect with counterparts in other communities and showcase our commitment to protecting residents from flooding while fostering community growth.

The City’s presentation detailed efforts to balance resiliency, flood-protection requirements, and economic-development needs. The discussion included how Cedar Rapids’ history of flooding has shaped our community and evolved our approach to flood risk — including development of the Voluntary Property Acquisition (Buyout) Program, Flood Control System, advancements in floodplain management, and integration of zoning code components to support and prioritize flood protection. The discussion also highlighted collaborative efforts across Departments regarding future development and property disposition to ensure protection in floodplains.

Webinar: Building Resilience — Effective Floodplain Management Strategies in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

City of Cedar Rapids Floodplain Administrator Mathew Langley presented as part of a webinar series hosted by Forerunner, a software platform the City uses to streamline floodplain management, ensure compliance with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements, and secure discounts through the Community Rating System (CRS) program. The City’s presentation covered strategies in floodplain management, participation in the Community Rating System (CRS) program, and enhanced communication and awareness initiatives with a group of 66 attendees across various sectors from as far away as Honolulu. The presentation also underscored Cedar Rapids’ ongoing dedication to flood-risk reduction, outreach, and collaboration across departments for effective long-term planning.

Tree of Five Seasons Park | Winter 2023–2024

Affordable Housing

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Disaster-Recovery Programs

Nine of the 11 Multi-Family and Single-Family New Construction projects have completed the environmental-review process and received funds from IEDA. Total awards for both programs are:

ROOTs in CR — $15M (76 units)

•  Development agreements underway

•  Projects break ground this spring

•  ROOTs application availability launching in next quarter

•  Households under 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)

•  Derecho-impacted households are prioritized for the first four months

•  Must be the household’s primary residence

•  Homes capped at $175,000; down payment assistance up to $35,000 available for buyers

•  15-year affordability period secured by a lien on the property. Lien forgiven by 1/15th each year until completely forgiven

The Heights

City Council approved HACAP as the future owner of the Heights (the former Colonial Building) through a competitive proposal process. HACAP will ensure compliance with program goals throughout the 15-year affordability period. Remodeling work to convert the previous office space into 25 affordable housing units continues and is due for completion in March. The City will enter into a Development Agreement with HACAP, transferring ownership at project completion.

Homeless Systems Initiative

Our staff worked with Linn County to create the framework for a local Oversight Board and Homeless Systems Manager. A draft 28E Agreement was presented and funding proposed for the Homeless Systems Manager position, which included City-County collaboration on the job description. The position’s primary function will be to review our current homeless systems and work with community partners to build effective solutions

Multi-Family New Construction — $9M (94 units)

•  Development agreements under way

•  Projects break ground this spring

Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program for Derecho-Impacted Households

ECICOG is under contract as program administrator. Statistics to date:

•  Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation — $2.5M

•  10 households approved for renovations to begin in spring

•  5 households in the application process

The Heights, 1500 2nd Avenue SE

to address homelessness in our community. The manager will work with the local Oversight Board to review data and improve efficiency and effectiveness in our homeless systems response. This work is in response to recommendations by the National Alliance to End Homelessness, made after the group held a Design Clinic in Cedar Rapids last June. Funding approval and position posting is forecasted for next quarter.

Strengthen & Stabilize Neighborhoods

Ellis Boulevard NW Extension/6th Street Connector

The project to extend Ellis Boulevard NW from the E Avenue intersection, through to 6th Street and B Avenue, is complete. Work included water main extension, sidewalk, railroad crossing additions and removals, on-street bicycle facilities, and new roundabouts at both E Avenue and F Avenue.

Municipal Code Chapter 18 — Historic Preservation Update

Chapter 18 — Historic Preservation and the Historic Preservation Design Guidelines are updated. This section of Municipal Code provides guidance for restoring buildings in the City’s Local Historic Districts and Local Historic Landmarks, ensures well-maintained building stock, and retains historic character.

Flourishing Neighborhood Index

City Council provided financial support for the Flourishing Neighborhood Index, a framework to measure health and identify opportunities in Wellington Heights. The Wellington Heights Community Church will lead the project, which will include extensive neighbor involvement to determine strengths and actions to address needs. The process provides neighbors an opportunity to work together while building capacity, neighborhood identity and strengthened relationships. The project began in Q2; completion is estimated in 2025. It is supported by public-private funding.

Block Party Trailer Coming Soon!

The Parks & Recreation and Community Development Departments will roll out a new Block Party Trailer program, with all the equipment needed to easily host community events (tables, chairs, tents, coolers, lawn games, etc.). The trailer will feature a custom-designed branding wrap. Community Development provided funding; Parks & Recreation will implement the program.

New Infill Housing

Rainbow Road

15 housing units across five parcels, located in a neighborhood significantly impacted by the 2008 Flood. Project to generate an estimated $1 million in new property taxes with a net present value of $400,000 rebated through City development incentives.

1627 Hamilton Street SW

12 units on the previous US Bank location in Czech Village to generate $600,000 net present value rebated through City development incentives. This has been vacant for an extended time and needing redevelopment.

Matthew 25

Housing project on flood-affected parcels at 8th Street NW, near Ellis Boulevard, including a $2.5 million investment and generating roughly $750,000 in new taxes. Up to $360,000 net present value rebated through City development initiatives.

Downtown Vision & Action Plan

City Council adopted the Downtown Vision & Action Plan — a collaborative effort by the City, Downtown SSMID, Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, Linn County, and the 2001 Development Corp. Goals include embracing the Cedar River, ensuring Downtown is activated and vibrant, and improving connectivity within Downtown and to nearby areas. The Plan includes 70 initiatives meant to improve Downtown. A Downtown Plan Implementation Committee formed to provide oversight and track initiative implementation. The Plan recommends formation of an Organizational Structure Taskforce to evaluate the current structure of the Downtown SSMID.

Quality of Life Enhancements

Trail Projects

The Wiley Boulevard Trail is a 10-foot sidepath connecting from Williams Boulevard SW to 16th Avenue. The project, including upgraded curb ramps and traffic signals for pedestrian accommodations at intersections in the project limits, is now complete.

The Cherokee Trail (Phase 2) project is complete. The project included a new bicycle boulevard and pavement improvements on Sharon Lane NW, from Eastview Drive to Gordon Avenue; bicycle boulevard and pavement improvements on Gordon Avenue NW, from Cherry Hill Road to Jacolyn Park; new off-street trail through Jacolyn Park and Cherokee Park, connecting from Gordon Avenue NW to Midway Drive; and two miniroundabouts to control traffic speeds along the bicycle boulevard, one at the Gordon Avenue NW & West Post Road intersection and another at the Gordon Avenue NW & Harbet Avenue intersection.

Pedestrian & Transit Stops

Projects in FY23 improved safety at two pedestrian street crossings with the installation of pedestrian-activated rectangular rapids flashing beacons (RRFB’s). ADA-compliant bus pads were installed at 13 transit-stop locations, along with benches and shelters in high-use locations.

ConnectCR: Alliant Energy LightLine Bridge Demolition

The former railroad bridge is being re-“cycled” in preparation to construct the new pedestrian and recreational bridge over the Cedar River. Portions of the railroad bridge will be salvaged for reuse in signage, markers, and other features. Following bridge removal, construction of the new Alliant Energy LightLine Bridge will begin. The bridge will include a tower with lighting visible for miles. The new bridge is anticipated to open in Fall 2026.

Dual-Use (Intergenerational Center and Sports Complex)

Facility Feasibility Study Complete

The study to determine feasibility of a dualuse intergenerational community center and competitive sports complex in Cedar Rapids is complete. The study, conducted by CSL International, indicated there is significant market and community demand that could support a combined facility. Most-noted needs included:

•  Community Center Amenities (e.g., indoor track, older-adult programming space)

•  Sports Amenities (e.g., hardwood courts, indoor turf, aquatic amenities)

Initial construction estimates were $50–70 million, depending on final amenities. The study also identified potential infill sites, demonstrating such a facility could potentially be built within the City’s core to ensure resident access.

While staff work to develop a fundraising and financing strategy, the City will also establish an older-adult task force to identify existing activities and resources and gaps that may be addressed by local organizations.

Alliant Energy LightLine Bridge Demolition

Winter Recreation

Trails

Paved trails continue to be open and cleared throughout the winter.

Cross-country ski trails are located at Ellis, Gardner, and Twin Pines Golf Courses; Jones, Noelridge, and Seminole Valley Parks; the Czech Greenway; and the Sac and Fox Trail. These are open, marked, and groomed when a solid base of heavy snow (6–8 inches deep) is achieved.

Prior to ground freezing, Parks staff install crosscountry ski trail posts & signs. Once a solid base of 6–8 inches is accumulated, crews use a snowmobile with a grooming sled to cut in the trails. Trails are re-groomed after each additional 2-inch accumulation. In the event of 10 or more inches of fresh snow, staff pack the snow before re-cutting trails.

Sledding

Sledding hills are located at Bowman, Jones, and Shawnee Parks. Hills are open when enough snow accumulates to provide complete coverages. Safe sledding tips are posted at each park and residents are encouraged to read them.

Ice Rinks

Unsupervised rinks will be located at Hughes Park and Greene Square when conditions allow. The Greene Square rink will be new this year; at 70’ x 40’ and located over the splash pad, the Green Square rink will be about half the size of the rink at Hughes Park.

Ice must be formed to a depth of 8–12 inches for safe skating. This requires temperatures stay below zero for a minimum of three consecutive nights. If daytime highs are at or above freezing, ice cannot be maintained for use. Rinks open as soon as conditions allow.

Updates regarding openings and closings of ice rinks and conditions of cross-country ski trails are available on the City’s webpage.

Ice Fishing

We allow ice fishing at the Prairie Park Fishery; ice conditions are not monitored. Fishing is at community members’ own risk.

Free Swim Lesson Program

After a successful Spring 2023 pilot program, the Parks & Recreation Department will once again provide free swim lessons for second graders in three local elementary schools. Lessons will take place at Bender Pool from February–April. The program breaks down common community barriers that prohibit or make it challenging for youth to access formal swim and water-safety instruction. Common barriers include lack of transportation, financial, proper swim attire, awareness, and a general overall aversion to water. This program is designed to break down each of those barriers to improve access for children to learn a valuable life skill. Each student will receive proper swim attire as part of the program along with a 6-class session of skill-level appropriate lessons. The program is possible thanks to the unique partnership with the Cedar Rapids Schools, Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation and with support from the Cedar Rapids Kiwanis.

Winter Lights

The Forestry division partnered with the Community Development Department and the Downtown and MedQuarter SSMID districts to revise winter lighting installation practices this year. Lighting areas are now divided into three sections; lights will be removed from trees in one section each year, allowing for tree pruning in that area. This will not only allow for tree-pruning maintenance — it will also fully remove light strands every three years, preventing tree injuries.

Homelessness

Homeless Systems Initiative

Our staff worked with Linn County to create the framework for a local Oversight Board and Homeless Systems Manager. A draft 28E Agreement was presented and funding proposed for the Homeless Systems Manager position, which included City-County collaboration on the job description. The position’s primary function will be to review our current homeless systems and work with community partners to build effective solutions to address homelessness in our community. The manager will work with the local Oversight Board to review data and improve efficiency and effectiveness in our homeless systems response. This work is in response to recommendations by the National Alliance to End Homelessness, made after the group held a Design Clinic in Cedar Rapids last June. Funding approval and position posting is forecasted for next quarter.

Coordination of Service

A number of City Departments and external organizations continue to work together to assist and address homelessness within the city. Police officers regularly respond to calls for service related

to individuals who are homeless. We route concerns regarding sites where larger groups of individuals are staying on private or public property without permission to our three Police Department District Lieutenants. The Lieutenants coordinate with other City Departments and external organizations to address the concerns. Responses ranged from 20–30 unique encampments or reported concerns per month during this quarter.

Discussions between individuals experiencing homelessness and the District Lieutenants are common. During these conversations, the Lieutenants offer various community resources with a focus on physical and mental health, food insecurity, and potential shelter options. Referrals are made to Waypoint and Willis Dady. While working to direct individuals to services, there is also a need to address unsanitary conditions in some locations. The Police and Parks & Recreation Departments and Solid Waste & Recycling division work together most frequently to address these areas of concern. The Iowa DOT and some railroad companies have also been involved in successfully addressing various locations this quarter.

Clean & Safe City

Pruning Street Segments

In October 2023, our Forestry team began pruning trees along various streets in preparation for Calendar Year 2024 Public Works projects. This work coincides with the cyclical pruning needs of rights-of-way trees. Work includes deadwood removal and building and sign/signal clearance. Low-limb removals also allow for code-required clearances for equipment used during City projects.

American Association of Code Enforcement (AACE) Award

Our Building Services Department Code Enforcement division won the 2023 AACE Innovative Program & Creative Marketing award. A few examples of recognized initiatives include the “Be a Good Neighbor” education campaign, promoting kindness and encouraging neighbors to maintain their properties; a carbon-monoxide-monitoring program, helping inspectors alert property owners of carbon monoxide concerns before anybody becomes seriously ill; and efforts to ensure all division staff earn their International Property Maintenance Code certification, with several having achieved Certified Code Enforcement Officer status. The division also conducted safety and legal-aspects trainings and found new ways to address illegally parked vehicles and dilapidated properties that can be acquired through tax sales. Our residents can be proud of the teamwork behind these efforts. This national recognition reflects our commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Cedar Rapids.

Final Derecho Drainageway Cleanup Package

We awarded a contract for the final package of Derecho Drainageway Cleanup work leveraging 75% grant funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service. This project will remove debris along McCloud Run, from Czech Lane NE to J Ave NE, restoring the creek’s ability to convey stormwater during heavy rain events. Work will start in spring and should be complete early this summer.

Zero-Emission Transition Plan

We received the final Zero-Emission Transition Plan with recommendations for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure at City facilities relating to light-duty EVs. The plan includes a 10-year vehiclereplacement cycle, with a savings estimated at $9.5 million in operating costs. Staff are working with Alliant Energy and preparing grant applications to earn infrastructure-related subsidies.

Fleet Biofuels Study

The Fleet Services division is researching biofuel use for City vehicles and equipment. A team is researching biofuels, with an opportunity for emissions reductions between 20–75%. The research includes use of biofuels B20 and B100 in place of diesel. Study data will be compiled in February.

The Derecho Drainageway Cleanup project will remove debris and restore drainage capabilities during heavy rain events

Business-Friendly

Brown Truck Leasing

Construction of an 11-thousand square foot commercial building, with a $4 million investment generating 10 new jobs in the community. $1.4 million in new taxes will be generated over 10 years, with $523 thousand rebated through City development incentives.

Former Gazette Building

Commercial renovation and expansion of the former Gazette building involving a $6.3 million investment. This is a Total-LEED-certified development that will generate $1.7 million in new taxes, with up to $950 thousand rebated as a result of the demonstrated increased costs associated with LEED Certification.

1st & 1st West Reconstruction

City Departments teamed up with the private development team at First and First West to ensure street and pedestrian improvements along 1st Avenue West and 1st Street, from 2nd Avenue SW to the 5-in-1 Dam, would be complete in time for Kingston Yard’s grand opening. Both the Big Grove Brewery and Pickle Palace are now open at the site. The land was made available through the City’s disposition process, which included extensive public engagement to find right-fit development for a site that stood underutilized after the 2008 Flood.

66th Avenue SW Reconstruction

This project included concrete pavement reconstruction, sidewalk extension on the north side of the street, and drainage improvements in an industrial area.

6th Street SW Reconstructed at Innovation Drive

A new roundabout project is slated for installation near the intersection of 6th Street SW at Saint Martin Boulevard. Land to the west has the potential for several large developments. With this new connection to the Cedar Rapids roadway network, the developable land will have improved access to I-380 via 6th Street SW. The proposed intersection improvement would provide safer access for the many vehicles and large trucks using 6th Street SW every day.

Wright Brothers Boulevard

SW Interchange

Iowa DOT and the City received a $57.3 million Mega grant to reconstruct the Wright Brothers Boulevard SW and I-380 interchange. The interchange features a diverging-diamond design, which enhances safety and the number of vehicles that can be served in an area that is rapidly developing. The project will bid this summer, with completion expected two years after construction starts.

City Purchasing Thresholds

The Finance Department Purchasing division researched and compared spending trends against existing purchasing authorization guidelines. Recognizing the increased costs of materials and services, supply chain issues, and the need to provide Departmental efficiencies, the Finance Department submitted a resolution to increase purchasing thresholds, approved by Council in November.

66th Avenue SW Reconstruction

A CLOSER LOOK

By The Numbers

Snow Events