City looks for input on improving First Avenue East

Crumbling pavement, poor drainage, slow-flowing traffic and vacant street-side buildings – those are a few of many problems Cedar Rapidians have identified on First Avenue East, a primary artery in the city's transportation grid.

The city is looking to improve some of those conditions, but first, it's looking for public input on what is most important.

About 20 people gathered in Kern Hall at St. Matthew's Church Thursday night to provide that input, voicing their concerns and hopes for the future of First Ave.'s stretch from 27

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“First Avenue is a very important road segment in the city,” said Gary Peterson, the city's capital improvements project manager. “We want to hear from the property owners and the public – what they want to see.”

Using those opinions, Peterson said the city plans finish its concept development for the area by December 1.

Thursday's event included a brainstorming session and an overview of the avenue's current conditions, which incorporated statistics showing that traffic accidents on the street have soared above statewide averages.

The consensus of attendees was simple: Much must be done to ensure safe travels for cars, bikes and pedestrians, and to make to avenue more pleasing to the eye.

“I've seen a lot of change here – not all of it good,” said Sue Poyneer, treasurer and a founder of the Kenwood Area Neighborhood Association. She has lived in the area for 32 years.

She said it seems the city forgot about First Avenue East as it understandably allotted much of its funds to flood victims elsewhere.

“This is kind of the opportunity for us to get what we're paying for in taxes,” she said.

The city says those concerned about First Ave. East can also share their opinions by filling out a survey at www.Cedar-Rapids.org.