City wrong to block access to dam

So, after fishing at the roller dam in southeast Cedar Rapids for over 35 years with my friends and family, the City of Cedar Rapids has blocked access to the dam by installing large pylons and heavy gates. I see no reason for this to happen. It is hard enough to fish the river as it is and now you have taken a local fishing favorite away from us?

I would like to find the reasoning behind this. I would like answers on why law abiding residents are not allowed access to the river to enjoy the outdoors with family? The CRPD would patrol a few times a day/night. I seen no illegal activity going on.

Now if we want to fish the river we have to park our vehicles by the Sac & Fox Trail and walk half a mile to the dam leaving our vehicles unattended. Well, guess what happens to your car or truck when it sets out there with no lights and no one around? The vehicle gets broken into and/or vandalized. Windows smashed out, items stolen, etc. Thanks, Cedar Rapids, for taking away access to good fishing for your residents and making it unsafe.

I hope the city reconsiders opening the road to the dam so we can enjoy the outdoors with friends and family like we have for decades. Don't ruin for all because the actions of a few.

Devin Kelley

Cedar Rapids