Public forum set on historic Czech Village restoration project

CEDAR RAPIDS - A group of Cedar Rapids residents is attempting to rebuild a historic structure in Czech Village, and they're asking for the public's input.

Friends of Czech Village, a nonprofit group formed to rebuild the Riverside Roundhouse, hosts a forum at 5 p.m. Wednesday at Lion Bridge Brewing Co, 59 16th Ave. SW.

The Riverside Roundhouse was built in 1963 in the Czech Village neighborhood as a location for farmers markets and other community events. However, the building was damaged during the flood of 2008, and the structure has since been deconstructed and put into storage, according to the friends group.

Board members of the group hope to hear the public's opinions and ideas for the project, as well as any stories or memories individuals may have of the former structure.

'Friends of Czech Village board members also will answer questions about building plans and fundraising,” officials said in a news release.

The group is fundraising to help pay for the project, which is estimated to cost $1.5 million, said Michelle Bell, president of Friends of Czech Village.

The group hopes to begin construction by 2018.

Fundraising efforts began in 2015. However, the nonprofit Friends of Czech Village wasn't formed until 2016 as 'a separate group with the singular goal of rebuilding this important community gathering place,” officials said in the news release.

Donations are being accepted for the restoration. Those interested can donate, and learn more about the effort, at czechvillagefriends.org.

l Comments: (319) 368-8536; michaela.ramm@thegazette.com