Cedar Rapids exploring restaurants, retail, recreation at future pump station

Apr. 19, 2017 12:12 pm

CEDAR RAPIDS - City officials are seeking public feedback on how to best design a pump station that is going to be part of the flood control system near the Eighth Avenue Bridge.

The pump station, designed to prevent flooding through underground utilities, could incorporate additional features to expand its purpose. For example, it could have a restaurant, retail or recreational uses.

An open house takes place from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 2, at NewBo City Market, 1100 Third St. SE.

The pump station is planned as part of the flood wall at the northwest corner of the Eighth Avenue Bridge, near Sunner Park.

The Eighth Avenue Bridge is also slated to be replaced as part of the flood system. The bridge will have bike and pedestrian accommodations that connect to the New Bohemia and Kingston Village neighborhoods, along with the McGrath Amphitheatre.

Once built, the new pump station will be high enough to overlook downtown, the river and the new bridge, city officials said in a news release.

l Comments: (319) 339-3177; brian.morelli@thegazette.com

Principal Riverwalk Pavilion and Pump Station in Des Moines. The Cedar Rapids pump station could be designed with a similar purpose. (Courtesy of Substance Architecture and Paul Crosby Architectural Photography)