Cemetery sidewalk threatens trees

A funeral company bought a piece of land from the Czech National Cemetery to build a funeral home. After 60 years, the city council wants a sidewalk on the cemetery side of Bowling Street, which has always been two lanes. There is no parking on either Bowling or Wilson Avenue for cars to let pedestrians out. There is a sidewalk on the opposite side of the cemeteries. What is the need for a sidewalk on each side of Bowling where cars cannot park?

In 1948, my late father established the first Islamic cemetery in North or South America. Not only is this a unique landmark for Cedar Rapids, Iowa and the United States, there is another unique aspect. This is the only place in North/South America whereby an Islamic, Jewish and ethnic Czech National Cemetery all have common property lines with a harmonious, cooperative community.

Where is the rationalism and understanding, especially with the contemporary emphasis of protecting nature, whereby the city council wants to remove eight beautiful 50-year-old pine trees along Bowling Street? Pedestrians can walk on the other side adjacent to Hy-Vee or Dairy Queen's private parking, but don't think they'd want them parking there!

Every concerned citizen should be calling the city council to support the Czech National Cemetery in protecting the beautiful trees and heritage. If a sidewalk is necessary, put it behind the trees!

Bill Aossey

Cedar Rapids