Government Notes: Fares reduced from $6 to $3 for NTS vans in Cedar Rapids

Neighborhood Transportation Service, a program of Horizons, will reduce fares starting today through a partnership with the city of Cedar Rapids.

The fare will be reduced from $6 to $3, making transportation more affordable for riders who use the service to get to work, school or training when city bus service in unavailable.

This fare reduction is part of a broader effort by NTS and the city to enhance mobility, cut transportation costs and support the community’s economic well-being, according to Horizons.

“This fare reduction, combined with our on-demand mobile app, allows us to better serve the needs of those who rely on NTS for work,” Horizons Chief Executive Officer Michael Barnhart said in a statement. “We are thrilled to partner with the city of Cedar Rapids to make transportation more accessible and affordable for the community.”

For more information about NTS schedules and services, visit horizonsfamily.org/nts or call (319) 363-1321.

Cedar Rapids to take bids on NewBo parking lot

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The Cedar Rapids City Council last week approved launching a competitive process to seek development proposals for city-owned property at 1001 Second St. SE — Lot 44 in the New Bohemia District, where Conlon Construction is proposing building a contemporary-style, 150-room hotel and 10 rowhomes.

Bids must be received on or before July 26. The council is slated to select the winning proposal Aug. 13, then staff will negotiate a development agreement later this year.

If Conlon’s hotel proposal is approved, the project would go a long way toward adding overnight beds in the city core and boost the city’s ability to attract larger events and conventions.

Conlon is interested in redeveloping the lot into housing and a hotel, likely under the Marriott flag, specifically its trendy Aloft brand. This city-owned property is around 3 acres and offers parking that is heavily used for larger NewBo events.

The city opened this process because of Conlon’s interest in the site, but other developers still may submit a proposal.

City staff are working to address parking issues that would arise from removing parking spots for a new development.

Registration open for 2024 Mayor’s Youth Conference

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Cedar Rapids-area high school students may now register to attend the Mayor’s Youth Conference at the downtown Cedar Rapids Public Library on Oct. 2.

Participants will be able to explore area educational and career opportunities, network with the next generation of young professionals and learn how they can grow and thrive in Cedar Rapids now and after graduation, according to Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell.

“We have a responsibility to guide our youth to success and empower them to become leaders who will shape our community,” O’Donnell said in a statement. “The Mayor’s Youth Conference will bridge the gap between uncertainty and the bright future that awaits high school graduates right here in Cedar Rapids.”

Registration is free and open to all area high school students. Those interested in attending should apply soon for this limited-capacity event.

To learn more and apply, visit the city website at CityofCR.com/MYC.

Iowa City parking, utilities increase

Parking rates and parking violations increases throughout downtown Iowa City today.

Parking ramp rates will increase to $2 per hour, up from $1 an hour.

Throughout the Central Business District, metered parking will now cost $3 an hour. Metered parking in outlying areas will be $1.50 an hour.

Parking fine increases range from $3 to $15, depending on the number of offenses.

City parking permit rates are not affected.

The city utilities rate increases are 3 percent for water, 5 percent for wastewater and $1 per month for curbside recycling.

Coralville Fifth Street construction

Starting July 8, a section of Fifth Street in Coralville — from just west of 18th Avenue to the east end of 1799 Fifth Street — will close.

The work is part of the continued reconstruction of Fifth Street.

Coralville transit stops near the construction area will be temporarily relocated. Coralville Transit routes 21, 24 and 25 will use a detour to avoid the project area.

Linn County planning office closed for week

The Linn County Planning & Development Department will be closed to the public July 5 to 12 for an office renovation intended to improve customer service. Staff will be working and available for assistance via phone or email during this time.

Residents and businesses may apply for permits online during the office closure. Turnaround time for permit applications may be longer during this closure.

Permit applications and more information are available on the Linn County Planning & Development website at LinnCountyIowa.gov.

Prairie hires new curriculum director

The College Community School District has hired Carla Riley as its curriculum director, effective Aug. 1.

Riley previously worked in the Cedar Rapids Community School District as an instructional coach, reading interventionist and teacher.

Riley replaces Alison West, who was named the district’s executive director of curriculum, instruction and assessment, effective today.

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“I am honored to be joining the leadership team of College Community where it is evident the entire community takes pride in all they do,” Riley said in a news release from the district.

Riley graduated from Coe College, earned a master’s in collaborative teaching and learning from Graceland University and received an advanced studies certificate, PK-12 principal, evaluator approval from the University of Northern Iowa.

Government Notes is published Mondays and contains updates from area governmental bodies. Gazette reporters Marissa Payne, Grace King and Megan Woolard contribute.