Paperwork pushes ahead on four city I-JOBS projects; reminder of some of big changes to come

CEDAR RAPIDS - Some of the city projects in Cedar Rapids being helped by an infusion of state I-JOBS economic-stimulus/disaster funds are moving closer to actually being in line to obtain the money.

The City Council this week is giving the city manager's office the go-ahead to sign agreements with the state on I-JOBS funding on four of the city projects:

- $3.31 million for the reconstruction of Sixth Street SW so it doesn't flood at Prairie Creek.

- $380,250 for the purchase of flood-blighted properties (including the former Siegel's store) next to the Paramount Theatre.

- $5 million to help with the construction of the Cedar Rapids Public Library project.

- $15 million to upgrade the U.S. Cellular Center arena as part of the overall, $67-million Event Center project, which includes a new convention center on what is now Third Street NE next to the arena and Crowne Plaza Five Seasons Hotel complex.