16th Avenue SE Improvements to Begin April 22

The City of Cedar Rapids will begin reconstruction work along 16th Avenue SE on Wednesday, April 22, 2024. The project area includes the 16th Avenue Bridge of Lions, 16th Avenue SE from 2nd Street to 4th Street, and 3rd Street SE east of 16th Avenue.

Improvements will provide more than a smooth road surface, they will transform the public right-of-way, with new sidewalks (including working with business to provide ADA accessible entrances where possible), improved storm sewers, upgraded sanitary sewer, new driveways, undergrounding of utility cables, updated street lighting, and critical bridge maintenance work.

Planning efforts for these projects have been in the works for years, including collaboration with local businesses to ensure access to all businesses throughout the entire project. Although the 16th Avenue Bridge will be closed to vehicles for a portion of the project, signed detours will be posted and the bridge will remain open for bicycles, pedestrians, and special events/parades.

The project, separated into six phases, will begin with the closure of the 16th Avenue Bridge of Lions on Monday, April 22. Construction will continue in different areas until November. Additionally, a water main improvement project will start at the intersection of 16th Avenue SE and 3rd Street on Wednesday, April 17.

The public is invited to learn about construction timing, lane and road closures, detours, and related impacts during an information meeting to be held Thursday, April 18, 2024 from 4:30–5:30 p.m. at the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library, 1400 Inspiration Point SW. A 20-minute presentation will begin at 4:30 p.m., with staff available throughout to answer questions from the public.

Project Overview

16th Avenue Bridge of Lions Maintenance Project

• Improvements will focus on deck repairs, joint replacements, and drainage and sidewalk modifications.
• The bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic while repairs are underway.
• The bridge will be open to pedestrian and bicycle traffic while repairs are underway.
• Construction work will accommodate Special Events, including the Houby Days parade.
• Work is expected to begin on April 22, with traffic closures to span approximately 8 weeks.

16th Avenue SE & 3rd Street Improvements

• Improvements will focus on 16th Avenue SE from 2nd Street to 4th Street, and 3rd Street SE east of 16th Avenue.
• Work will include new pavement, driveways and sidewalks; water main replacement; storm sewer replacement in coordination with the Flood Control System; and new street lights with underground wiring.
• A separate, decorative streetscaping project is tentatively scheduled for construction in 2025.
• Work will be completed in five phases:
• Phase 0: Water Main at intersection of 16th Avenue SE and 3rd Street
• Phase 1: Reconstruction of 3rd Street SE, east of 16th Avenue
• Phase 2: Reconstruction of intersection at 16th Avenue SE and 3rd Street
• Phase 3A: Reconstruction of 16th Avenue SE, from 3rd Street to 4th Street
• Phase 3B: Reconstruction of 16th Avenue SE, from 3rd Street to 4th Street
• Phase 4: Crosswalk replacement at 2nd Street SE
• Traffic detours and business access signage will be posted.
• Access to businesses will be maintained throughout the project.

The completion of these projects will mark a significant milestone in enhancing this bustling gateway entry connecting the Czech Village and New Bohemia commercial districts. Visit CityofCR.com/16thAvenueProject to learn more and find project updates.