Roosevelt Apartment residents voice concerns over nearby demolition

The sound of heavy machinery, cranes, and power tools is the reality for about 150 people living in Cedar Rapids' Roosevelt Apartments on First Avenue NE, next to the major construction and demolition at the U.S. Cellular Center.

The property manager, building owner, and a city official wrapped up an hour-long meeting with residents at 6 p.m.  The goal was to address concerns including noise and debris.  They also want to dispel myths and rumors those living here have about the construction next door.

"I can't stress enough how exciting it is to be a part of this development,” said Roosevelt Apartments Property Manager Rosemary Vaccaro.

Just eight months ago, the Roosevelt Apartment building reopened its doors.  19-year-old Allison Doyle moved in two months later.

"It's extremely safe, very, very, safe.  I can go shopping, go out to eat, go get coffee, go for a walk,” said Allison Doyle.

But the Roosevelt sits next to the demolition and renovation work at the U.S. Cellular Center.

"They were jack hammering in the morning two days ago at like 8:30 in the morning and I was like oh my gosh I can feel the vibration in my bed,” said Doyle.

The noise and vibrations just come with the territory.  Construction crews will work during normal business hours.  But Doyle has bigger concerns about the demolition of the parking ramp attached to the building.

"Any little thing could go wrong and tear down this building too.  So it was kind of a big concern,” said Doyle.

Property Manager Rosemary Vaccaro says she's trying to diffuse worries and myths.

"I did have one resident think we're gonna blow the parking ramp up.  We're working with the city to mitigate any of these issues,” said Vaccaro.

The city's already put up construction barriers.  What else will be blocked off or restricted to residents are all decisions left up to the city.  Meetings Monday night and in the coming weeks will decide the best safety measures.

"Hang in there with us.  We are working with the city and the city is working with us.  We are on the brink of expansion,” said Vaccaro.

Some of the disruptions will likely remain until construction wraps up.  The property manager says it'll all be worth it as more businesses, people, and money move back downtown.