Skywalk system needs to be updated

As a kid growing up in Cedar Rapids, the downtown skywalk system was special. Visits to Gringo's for lunch often led to exploring the maze of hallways on our way to the old library, no matter what the weather was like outside.

As a returning adult, now a resident of a skywalk-connected building, my impression of the system has changed a lot. Despite five years since the old library was last operational, all of the signage in the skywalks still point toward the old library and there is no signage anywhere to indicate the location of the new library.

In addition, I've used the skywalk to get close to the numerous restaurants and bars I frequent, but only if it's before 7 p.m., after which point they lock them all. The whole idea behind the skywalk system was to connect the various parking structures and allow easy access for anyone with business downtown, but locking out everyone after 7 p.m. doesn't allow for use of parking very far from your destination.

With all the money and focus on our downtown area revitalization, we should update the skywalk system. It wouldn't require much effort to become that unique thing that made downtown Cedar Rapids a standout of Iowa cities.

Jeff Wright

Cedar Rapids