Signs of progress all around us

By The Gazette Editorial Board

---

Three years post-epic flood, the signs of recovery progress are extensive, even impressive, in the Corridor.

In Cedar Rapids and Linn County, three-fourths of a billion dollars in local, state and federal funding, plus private contributions, is being invested in more than two dozen major rebuilding and improvement projects involving government and human services, workforce housing, cultural treasures, and businesses and economic development.

In Johnson County, the University of Iowa just released its timetable for five major flood-recovery projects. Iowa City and Coralville are moving ahead with flood mitigation projects.

Within the next three years, the visual landscape will change greatly, especially in the heart of Cedar Rapids. A new convention center and hotel, and upgraded arena will be in operation. A new federal courthouse open. Riverfront amphitheater. A revitalized Czech Village and New Bohemia district with a year-round farmers market, renovated and expanded CSPS Hall, and relocated/expanded National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. New Central Fire Station. More rebuilt and new housing in core neighborhoods. A restored, improved historic Paramount Theatre. New county buildings. The list goes on (see www.signsofprogresscr.com).

Obstacles and much hard work remain to sustain what overall has been an impressive start to rebuilding and reinvigorating our community. Federal funding has been substantial so far but likely won't meet all the requests and needs as this nation's leaders address a massive debt and tentative economic recovery.

The narrow defeat last month of a local referendum to extend the local-option sales tax and anchor hopes for a permanent, comprehensive flood protection system was a setback.

Yet in those challenges lie opportunities to learn, adjust and better focus on what needs to be done in the next three years and beyond. Clearly, flood protection is the biggest question and must be addressed as soon as possible. Confidence in the future, among residents and private enterprise alike, is at stake.

Still, a foundation for ongoing, steady progress is in place. The evidence is all around us as the number of construction sites multiplies.

Cedar Rapids is promoted as a “vibrant, urban hometown - a beacon for people and businesses invested in building a greater community for the next generation.” The slogan still fits if we keep striving to make Iowa's second-largest city better than ever.

n Comments: thegazette.com/

category/opinion/editorial or

editorial@sourcemedia.net