City Council Priorities Quarterly Report
City Council Priorities
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 4–11. 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.
APRIL–JUNE 2025
Flood Control System
Downtown Construction Preparation
A contract was awarded for a project to enhance existing City infrastructure and address necessary repairs ahead of upcoming downtown FCS construction work. The project includes:
` Replacing existing concrete railing with steel and repairing the river wall between 1st Avenue SE and 3rd Avenue.
` Relocating storm sewer to accommodate new flood wall.
` Remediating soil in Parking Lot 44 (between 8th Avenue SE and 12th Avenue) ahead of use by the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
` Repairing a previously damaged bridge barrier rail at Shaver Road NE.
This repair package will provide construction timeline efficiencies and protect newly installed infrastructure.
Project Updates
` The Federal Government cleared the 8th Avenue Bridge as an eligible project for receipt of funding through the PROTECT and BIP grant programs.
` The 12th Avenue SW Pump Station was commissioned and is now operational.
` Work on the Cedar Lake Levee is complete.
` US Representative Ashley Hinson selected the 3rd Avenue SE/ CRST pump station backup generator as a top 15 project for possible Community Project Funding in FY26. It will compete for funding later this year.
12th Avenue SW Pump Station
Housing Options & Affordability
First-Time Homebuyer Program
Our First-Time Home Buyer Program, funded through the HOME Investment Partnership Program, made 11 grants available this year. The program provides up to $14,999 for downpayment assistance to home buyers at or below 80% of the Area Median Income. The program closed on two properties since opening in March. Nine applicants are currently in progress, with a waiting list of 24. Due to the strong response, the First-Time Home Buyer Program closed on April 30 and will reopen in early March 2026.
Strengthen & Stabilize Neighborhoods
Abandoned Property Acquisions
Our Code Enforcement Division saw success using new strategies to address dilapidated housing and bring more properties into compliance with the Housing and Property Maintenance Code through Iowa Code 657A.10B Abandoned Property Acquisition. Three unsafe dwellings will be demolished. The lots will be made available to non-profits for new housing. Through the process, seven total properties have been acquired, positively transforming several neighborhoods.
Code Enforcement
In FY25, the Building Services Department — Code Enforcement Division, with the help of the City Attorney’s Office, filed 151 municipal infractions in pursuit of code compliance with the City of Cedar Rapids Housing and Property Maintenance Code. Items included lack of maintenance on structures’ exteriors, general exterior property upkeep, and violations related to the Zoning Ordinance (including vehicle-related violations and many others). Enforcement efforts hold property owners accountable and help improve the health, safety, and welfare of our neighborhoods.
Tree Relocations Ahead of Construction Projects
Staff relocated trees along 42nd Street NE and in Riverfront 1 Park to alternate locations ahead of related construction projects. Most were transplanted to golf courses and parkways. Trees remaining on site will be protected during construction.
Summer in the Square
Summer in the Square kicked off on June 9 at Greene Square. This initiative will activate and enhance our downtown with an average of 20+ hours of weekly programming for people of all ages. In addition to all activities being free and open to the public (except for the Weekend Rehearsal concert series that benefits local nonprofits), Parks & Recreation staff collaborated with several downtown daycares, day camps, and youth organizations to invite them into the park during the day.
Resident Appreciation Day
We hosted our annual Resident Appreciation Day at the first Downtown Farmers’ Market in June, offering residents a chance to meet City staff and learn about our programs and services. Highlights included an inflatable obstacle course from the Parks and Recreation Department, City vehicles like a City Bus and artwrapped garbage truck, giveaways, and the final appearance of retiring canine officer Tibi from the Police Department.
42nd Street NE Construction
Traffic Flow Improvements
One-Way to Two-Way Conversion
We converted Coe Road NE, from A Avenue to where it meets Center Point Road NE, back to two-way traffic in April. With the conversion, a northbound bike lane was added, improving overall connectivity and providing a northbound route for vehicles and bicycles. This change allows traffic from A Avenue NE to access the I-380 northbound on-ramp at H Avenue NE from Center Point Road NE. The conversion is already reducing congestion at the I-380 northbound on-ramp at 8th Street NE.
3rd Street SE Lane Reconfiguration
Traffic Operations staff restriped 3rd Street SE at 8th Avenue to improve traffic flow.
Southbound changes:
` Removed the shared through/left lane and shared right turn lane with the bike lane
` Converted to a dedicated left turn lane, a through lane, and a shared right turn lane with the bike lane
Northbound changes:
` Removed the shared through/left turn lane and a right turn lane
` Converted to a dedicated left turn lane and a shared through/right turn lane with the bike lane
42nd Street NE
Construction began on 42nd Street NE, from Edgewood Road to Pine View Drive. This project includes business-specific detour signs during construction to help patrons reach their destinations.
Award for Engineering Excellence
Public Works received the American Council of Engineering Companies of Iowa (ACEC-IA) Honor Award for Engineering Excellence in the Transportation Category for the 6th Street NW & Ellis Boulevard Connector Project.
New Digital Tools for Construction Projects
We rolled out a new online Construction Project Map for public use, making information on local construction projects clearer, consolidated, and easier to find. New web tools include interactive maps showing current and future projects and road closures with detailed project update pages. We designed these tools to make it easier for residents, businesses, and visitors to find real-time information. Significant contributions from the City Manager’s Office, Communications Division, IT, and Public Works teams helped to make this effort a success.
After a successful inaugural year of use by Neighborhood Associations last year, we expanded the Block ’n Roll program to the general public this year. The trailer comes fully stocked with everything needed to host a great neighborhood event — tables, chairs, games, and other essentials — making it easy to transform a street or park into a fun, welcoming gathering space. The program supports our Age-Friendly Action Plan, helping neighbors connect, reduce social isolation, and make the most of shared community spaces.
These updates reduce delays and improve overall operations at the intersection.
27th Street Drive SE & Country Club Parkway
New pavement markings and signage relocations are helping traffic along 27th Street Drive SE and Country Club Parkway. We made the changes to prioritize higher-volume streets, reduce confusion regarding which vehicles have the right-of-way, and enhance intersection safety.
Coe Road NE Two-Way Conversion
Recreational & Cultural Amenities
Cherry Hill Aquatic Center Updates
The slide tower and slides at Cherry Hill Aquatic Center received a facelift for the start of the 2025 pool season. We installed the previous equipment in 2004 and it was time for some needed maintenance. The tower and slides were both renovated and include a fresh new paint color for each slide and new surfacing and decking to improve safety on the stairs and slide tower.
Linn County and Cedar Rapids Trails and Bikeways Plan
The 2025 Linn County and Cedar Rapids Trails and Bikeways Plan replaced the previous plan, adopted in 2012 and updated in 2015. The final version is available on the City’s website. The Plan was developed based on feedback obtained through stakeholder engagement, coordination between City Departments and Linn County Conservation, and best-practice recommendations. The Plan outlines goals, strategies, and action steps; a map that illustrates the planned locations of future trails and bikeways; and trail construction priority levels. For each planned facility, an associated table provides detailed project information, including facility type, lead agency, and opportunities and challenges.
Ride the Districts Bike Tour
We had a great turnout for the annual “Ride the Districts” bike tour on Saturday, June 14, hosted by the Community Development and Public Works Departments. More than 80 riders participated in the 13-mile ride, which started and ended at Cedar Lake. The ride showcased new and upcoming bicycle infrastructure across the city, including the Cedar Valley Nature Trail, Grant Wood Trail, CEMAR Trail, and bikeways on Old Marion Road NE, Oakland Road NE, 29th Street NE, and H Avenue NE. Participants also got the chance to learn more about ConnectCR and its impact on Cedar Lake.
Alliant Energy LightLine™ Construction Begins
Construction on the Alliant Energy LightLine™ project is underway and expected for completion in 2026. This pedestrian bridge over the Cedar River is possible thanks to a partnership between the City of Cedar Rapids and ConnectCR. This nonprofit organization helped secure donations and provide input for the design. The bridge will feature a 165-foot-tall pylon, cables, and lighting — serving not only as a local attraction but also as a connection to trails on both sides of the river.
LightLine Loop Construction Begins
Construction began on the LightLine Loop. This project will revitalize Czech Village by providing a community space for events and everyday use. It includes the construction of a new roundhouse building, a pedestrian promenade, additional parking, signage, and the extension of 18th Avenue SW. It will serve as a catalyst for development in the area while celebrating our rich cultural heritage.
Parks & Recreation Director
Following a nationwide search, we welcomed Carrie Mardorf as the new Parks and Recreation Director on June 23. An Iowa native, Carrie most recently served as superintendent and executive director of the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi. She holds a Master of Science in Historic Preservation from the University of Vermont and a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Iowa State University. Carrie’s expertise in public lands management, resource stewardship, and executive leadership will help guide the Parks & Recreation Department’s continued growth and innovation.
Bloomberg Harvard Innovation Track
As part of the City’s participation in the Bloomberg Harvard Innovation Track to identify innovative approaches to build community connections and support economic vitality around the riverfront, staff reengaged with community members at the Spring into Action event. The goal was to brainstorm additional ideas and solutions to address identified opportunities. The next step will be to refine and vet ideas before prototyping them for implementation.
Bike to Work Week
In celebration of National Bike Month, we invited residents to participate in a variety of bike-friendly activities throughout May. These activities encouraged sustainability and cycling, enhanced bike-safety education, and helped grow our bike-friendly culture.
City Facilities Recognized as Bicycle Friendly
We received silver-level Bicycle Friendly Business certification for City Hall, Water Administration, Water Pollution Control, and the City Services Center from the League of American Bicyclists. This recognizes the City’s efforts to encourage staff and customers to bicycle. These certifications were new for City Hall and City Services Center this year. Our Water Administration and Water Pollution Control recognitions were also upgraded, from bronze level to silver.
Bicycle-Friendly Community Application
We submitted our application for BicycleFriendly Community designation and will learn in December if we retained our bronzelevel status or earned a higher one. The League of American Bicyclists provides this designation to communities that welcome bicyclists by providing safe accommodations and encouraging people to bike for transportation and recreation.
Homelessness
Iowa Economic Development Authority Grant Award
We received a $75,000 grant award to assist with the Willis Dady Emergency Shelter’s homelessness operations, funded by CDBG-CV funds from IEDA. The funds will be used to offset costs associated with running the shelter.
Landlord & Tenant Success Initiative
In Winter 2024, local housing providers, governments, and non-profits partnered to use CRBT funding to create incentives for landlords to offer rental units to individuals who face barriers to housing. The pilot program identified its first 16 households, 15 of which were successfully housed. The final household is awaiting final approval of a unit. No unresolved lease violations occurred in any of these households.
Active Transportation Advisory Commission
City Council began the process to create an Active Transportation Advisory Commission. This commission will advise City Council on matters related to active transportation, such as walking, biking/rolling, and transit; and opportunities to improve quality of life, general health, and community-member welfare through increased use and understanding of safe and accessible activetransportation modes. Both our Pedestrian Plan and the Linn County and Cedar Rapids Trails and Bikeways Plan recommended creating this commission.
“Get the Scoop” Nature Everywhere Open House
We held an open house for the Nature Everywhere program on June 10, gathering community feedback about bringing more natural play spaces to our community. Cedar Rapids is one of 19 nationwide cities participating in the Nature Everywhere Communities program this year. This initiative focuses on connecting children with nature where they live, learn, and play — starting with the greening of local schoolyards. The City’s team also includes the Children & Nature Network, Cedar Rapids Community School District, and the Indian Creek Nature Center. Together, we are working with local stakeholders to build a shared vision for increasing access to natural spaces through youth engagement, mapping community assets, identifying funding opportunities, and developing a green schoolyard and climateresiliency action plan.
Clean & Safe City
Code Updates
The Building Services Department worked with industry stakeholders and the Board of Appeals to preview State of Iowa Trade Code updates and proposed local amendments. Staff also held open houses to present these updates to interested parties. The State of Iowa recently adopted the latest codes (2024 International Mechanical Code, 2023 National Electrical, and 2024 Uniform Plumbing codes — all with State amendments). These codes are now in effect. To remain in compliance and ensure consistency with State regulations, staff worked to present the update to City Council by fiscal-year end. Final passage is set to occur in FY26 Q1.
Forestry & Trees
ReLeaf
We planted 4,915 trees this spring as part of the ReLeaf Plan. Of these, 26 were placed on Mays Island as part of the Downtown Vision Plan through a grant from America in Bloom/CN Railway.
Stump Backlog
Forestry has eliminated their backlog of stump work, allowing stumps left from new tree removals to be ground, in many cases, within the same day.
Tree Pruning
Forestry pruned several trees downtown, keeping them clear of buildings. This is an intermediate step in the three-year pruning cycle for downtown trees due to excessive growth on some trees.
Fireworks Educational Campaign
In 2025, following a new state law that limited the City’s ability to regulate the location of fireworks sales and removed the ability to prohibit fireworks use on certain days, we launched an early and proactive public messaging campaign across the City’s communications channels to help residents understand what is permitted and practice safety. Public safety calls for service related to fireworks dropped this year, while the number of fires associated with fireworks rose. Our goal is to continue to drive down the number of fireworks-related fires and injuries. Staff also secured an $8,000 grant from the State of Iowa for fireworksrelated public education efforts. The funding will be used to promote the safe use of fireworks, improve awareness of the authorized windows for their use, and encourage attendance at professional displays.
Roadway Safety
We installed rectangular rapid-flashing beacons (RRFBs) on 27th Street NE at the CEMAR Trail Crossing. The project was completed with funding assistance from the Linn County Trails Association.
Business-Friendly
Building Permit Valuations
FY25 saw the highest recorded valuation of construction in City history — with a total permit valuation over $2.6 billion. While under construction, these projects are inspected by Building Services Department trade inspectors for code compliance in the interest of public safety. This reflects a number of public and private projects taking shape throughout our entire community — across the residential, educational, industrial, retail, and commercial sectors. The largest projects are the data centers by Google and QTS.
and the student-talent pipeline. During the 2025–26 academic year, Cedar Rapids students received 70 Dolezal scholarships, totaling $357,000 in CALS awards — five more than the previous year. The partnership will host tours of select Cedar Rapids food and bio employers in October.
Economic Development Grants & Awards
We concluded the RFP process to award the following competitive grants to economic development partners in both FY26 and FY27:
` $110,000 | Entrepreneurial Development Center (EDC, Inc.)
` $55,000 | Kirkwood Foundation
` $45,000 | NewBoCo
` $35,000 | Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance (CRMEA)
` $35,000 | Four Oaks Family and Children’s Services
` $25,000 | NewBo City Market
Infrastructure Enhancements
Walford Road SW
We awarded a contract for Walford Road SW improvements west of 6th Street. The project upgrades an existing rural roadway to a curbed, concrete street. The project earned a state Revitalize Iowa’s Sound Economy (RISE) grant to support the recently constructed FedEx facility and its access to Walford Road.
Big Cedar Sanitary Sewer & Water Main Extension
We completed projects to extend sanitary sewer and water main to the Big Cedar Industrial Center. Our readiness to serve major industrial users in this location with City utilities enables Google, QTS, and other future businesses to establish their presence in Cedar Rapids. We expect these developments to generate multi-billiondollar investments, attract other companies to the area, and make a significant financial impact on the City for many years.
Business Outreach & Education
Q4
Existing Industry Program
After conducting 15 Business Retention & Expansion calls this quarter, staff provided technical assistance to nine of the companies (60%). Companies called include:
` 7G
` AB Mauri
` ACP
` ADM
` Atlantic Bottling (Coca-Cola)
` Bimm Ridder Sportswear
` Cargill (Corn Processing)
` Fluid Quip
` Intl. Paper, Cedar River Mill
` Lil Drugstore Products, Inc.
` Modern Companies
` PMX
` Profol Americas
` Raining Rose
` Rayser Holdings
City-Iowa State University Partnership
Our partnership with Iowa State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) continues to strengthen ties between local industry
Over the past 12 months, City awards to economic development partners have produced or supported the following results:
` 632 jobs retained
` 62 jobs created
` 304 education starts enhancing the Cedar Rapids talent pipeline
` $10.5 million in new working capital accessed by businesses
` 64 early-stage companies received technical assistance
Q4 Economic Development Agreements
The 2025 Cedar Rapids Housing Market Analysis is underway in a process that includes focus-group meetings with multifamily developers and rental-property owners. We anticipate a draft review of the analysis will be ready in August. Housing & Code Enforcement Inspections 6,925 trade inspections 15,657 permits issued 7,379
City Economic Development Services staff continued to collaborate with the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and Alliant Energy on corporate headquarters visits.
Supporting Growth
Workforce Housing Tax Credits
Economic Development staff supported eight developments’ applications to Iowa’s Workforce Housing Tax Credits program, totaling $57.8 in capital investment and 279 new units. Awards will be announced in FY26 Q1.