Project of the Week: Cedar Lake

More than a decade ago, there was a vision for how Cedar Lake could be transformed into a major recreational attraction for the community.

Now that vision is becoming a reality.

This large project is divided into three "amenities packages." The City completed the first package last year, including a new shoreline trail on the eastern shore of Cedar Lake; trail paving and trail connections that take pedestrian and bicycle traffic from Shaver Road, and allow trail users to enjoy the lake directly from the shoreline; and construction of a fishing jetty. All improvements are ADA-accessible, allowing users of all abilities to enjoy the lake.

This week, construction crews are building features from Amenities Package #2. Those include underground utility work; fresh pavement and a new cul-de-sac on Shaver Road; and parking for the future location of the Challenge Course and restroom. Work is expected to be completed by August.

Earlier this week, the City Council approved plans and went out to bid on Amenities Package #3. This third and final part of the project will add new recreational features, including a bird-viewing platform, nature walkway, and more.

All these improvements are creating a major transformation of the lake located alongside Interstate 380, just north of Quaker Oats.

It is very exciting to be able to see Cedar Lake taking shape," says Jennifer Pratt, Director of Community Development for the City. "It marks the power of partnerships - Connect CR, MidAmerican Energy, Alliant Energy, other major donors, and countless residents who wanted to invest in the future of our community."

Developed through Partnership

The Cedar Lake project is being developed thanks to a public-private partnership comprised of the City of Cedar Rapids and ConnectCR, a group of residents dedicated to revitalizing Cedar Lake and building a pedestrian bridge spanning the Cedar River.

The Steering Committee for ConnectCR raised more than $8 million in private funding for the project. The Hall-Perrine Foundation, the City of Cedar Rapids, and the State of Iowa also contributed to help make both the Cedar Lake project, and the Alliant Energy LightLine™, a reality.

"We hope this sets a high standard for future partnerships with the City, leading to more resident-driven community betterment projects like this," said Julie Kraft, Director of Organization Development for ConnectCR. "Also, we cannot say enough good things about Jennifer Pratt, who heads the City's Community Development Department. She and her team have been with us every step of the way to help us fulfill the project's vision."

Still to come

Features to be added later this year at Cedar Lake include:

• Accessible canoe and kayak launch
• Fishing piers
• Park shelters and restroom
• Challenge course
• Bird Walk viewing platform and nature walkway
• Northwest wildlife habitat restoration
• Floating vegetated islands
• Reconstruction of the north, south and causeway trails

Many pedestrians and cyclists can already be found enjoying the new features of Cedar Lake. With the features that are set to be completed this year, the lake is quickly transforming into a major draw for residents and investment by private businesses.

"The driving force for ConnectCR has always been 'How do we improve access for everyone to visit and use this beautiful urban lake?" says Julie Kraft. "Seeing these improvements, which will make it easier for others to enjoy this hidden treasure, is what we have always planned and hoped for. We're very excited to see how all the amenities come together when this project is finished."

You can learn more about the Cedar Lake project here.

Project of the Week puts a spotlight on work happening all over the City every day. Each week, we will take a closer look at projects that are investing in our community's roads, trails, Flood Control System, and more. See previous installments here:

May 21: Tree of Five Seasons Park
May 14: 20th Street NW
May 7: 18th Avenue SW
April 30: Alliant Energy LightLine™
April 23: 42nd Street
April 16: The 3rd Avenue Bridge