Medical mall could be big opportunity for C.R.

As a worker in the Cedar Rapids downtown area for more 12 years (The History Center, old Science Station and the Guaranty Bank building), I have seen many changes, both good (growth of restaurants and live music venues) and bad (2008 flood and lost jobs).

The proposed Medical Mall could be the start of something big for the downtown district. The Medical Mall will centralize health care services and bring professional, salaried jobs to Cedar Rapids. Visitors to the Medical Mall will support shopping, overnight lodging and dining. With the proposed library and other downtown amenities in the works, we won't only rise from the flood, but start thinking of how high we can go.

I think complaints about anticipated traffic jams are exaggerated. Born and raised in the Chicago area, I have experienced some of the worst gridlock imaginable. I don't think we will create long delays during rush hour. Maybe the new venues that will grow near the Medical Mall will encourage people to stay downtown after work for dinner, resulting in less rush-hour traffic. Yes, there will be traffic issues, but they are solvable.

With progress comes change, and change is good. Don't blow this

opportunity, Cedar Rapids!

Michael Crist

Oxford Mills