Cedar Rapids has no regard for its history

I see Cedar Rapids is set to continue its tradition of trashing its history for myopic short term gains. This time it's the unlikely library board. I grew up in Cedar Rapids and mourn the loss of so many historic neighborhoods and so much of the character of the old community after the flood.

But the loss of Cedar Rapids' historic center began many years ago and the place shows no signs of having seen what they've lost. It began in the 1960s with the demolition of the glorious depot for a parking ramp. Remember the stately homes that lined the streets leading out from downtown? Look at the lonely former Turner Funeral Home and the Grant Wood Studio floating in a sea of parking lots instead of their lovely old neighborhoods. Ask anyone who has tried to keep Czech Village alive and hear how Cedar Rapids has supported any historic preservation over the years. It isn't just the historic flood that has seen the city center sinking.

Now the library board, and very possibly the City Council, seem to have nearly decided to relocate their new library, not only taking out a whole block of the limited number of viable businesses still located in downtown, but also to consider demolishing a beautiful historic church for another parking lot.

Surely there is a better choice than this one!

Cynthia Otis Charlton

Wellman