Penford, museum can coexist, benefit C.R.

The Cedar Rapids City Council was wise to put off the decision on Penford's proposal to purchase Riverside Park. The council also was wise in allowing Penford and other interested groups until March to submit proposals to buy Riverside Park.

The issue at hand pits economic development versus quality of life issues and cultural issues. Penford wants to the ability to expand its Cedar Rapids location and create 20 to 50 manufacturing job to its work force of 225. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is rebuilding and expanding its presence in the Czech Village. The neighbors who live in the area are concerned about the noise and increased traffic in their neighborhood.

The sale of any city park should be examined carefully before any decision is made. I believe that a win-win decision can be made where all parties believe that their voices have been heard. A series of buffers should be explored if this effort is moved forward. There also needs to be something to reduce noise and odor pollution coming from the Penford plant.

I hope that all sides can come together for the benefit of the Cedar Rapids community.

Alyssa Hoekstra

Cedar Rapids