New C.R. library should be on First Avenue

As a former chair of the State Library Commission and an architect responsible for the design of many libraries in the Midwest, including those in Marion and Cedar Rapids, I write as a concerned citizen and have no official connection to the new library project.

It appears that the library board and the city council have narrowed their selection to two sites: the block south of Greene Square (TrueNorth Building) and the First Avenue site, bounded by Second Avenue and Seventh and Eighth streets.

The First Avenue site is superior by far for the following reasons:

l First Avenue is Cedar Rapid's “Main Street,” providing easy access for both east- and west-side residents.

l The site is easily accessed from Interstate 380, which is used by many from the northeast and southwest quadrants to reach the business district.

l Visitors driving in from I-380 would get a very positive first impression of our city, as a significant public building would replace a rather unsightly parking lot.

l The First Avenue site offers plenty of room for on-site parking.

l The site is high above the 500-year flood plain.

l It would not take an established downtown business building from the tax rolls.

Edward (Ted) Healey

Cedar Rapids