Build walkways instead of closing streets

I'm writing about the Physicians' Clinic of Iowa project that is going forward. I was at one of the City Council meetings and was appalled at how our council would not listen to the citizens about the closing of Second Avenue SE. It was going to happen, and it did.

We lost former Mayor Don Canney in March 2011. When he wanted to run I-380 through the city, a lot of people did not want it. Many homes were lost to it, But he did not cut off any of the streets east to west, and the interstate went above the streets. One thing he made sure citizens always had a way to get from one side of the city to another. All the major avenues were open to traffic. The interstate has been an asset to the community.

This PCI building should be built along First Avenue SE, another building along First Ave NE, by the Birth Center. Build a parking lot on the Second Avenue side with walkways going across First and Second avenues.

All major avenues would be left open. Less cost for the city.

Sandi Nickelson

Cedar Rapids