CITY NEWS & EVENTS
April 2, 2020


COVID-19 Updates from the City of Cedar Rapids

Stay informed on the latest information related to COVID-19 preparations and local impacts:
  • City of Cedar Rapids news, including Transit, Water Service, and City Facility updates HERE
  • Iowa Department of Public Health updates HERE
  • Centers for Disease Control & Prevention updates HERE
City Council Meeting Schedule

Check the website for Council meeting changes related to COVID-19.
Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission Names New Executive Director

The City of Cedar Rapids, Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission Chair, Leland Freie, and the Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission announces the appointment of Stefanie P.K. Munsterman-Scriven as the Commission's new Executive Director. Munsterman-Scriven worked for the Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission from 2008 to 2015 and returned as a Civil Rights Investigator and Mediator in April of 2019.

In her new role as Executive Director, Munsterman-Scriven will direct the strategic planning and policy for the Civil Rights Commission as well as plan, organize and direct the organization, structure, activities and operations of the Department.
Spring Leaf Vacuuming Starts April 6 

Starting Monday, April 6, the Cedar Rapids Solid Waste and Recycling division will begin operating leaf vacuum trucks. The trucks are scheduled to run through Friday, May 1, barring any COVID-19-related scheduling constraints. Residents can expect leaf collection on their regular garbage day unless the trucks are slowed by weather or volume. If service is slowed by weather or volume, the division will strive to reach any missed properties the next day. Read More
Residents Encouraged to Respond to 2020 Census Online

The 2020 Census has officially kicked off and invitations continue to arrive in mailboxes across the nation. These official mailings include detailed information and a Census ID for residents to complete the Census online. Residents can respond to the Census at 2020Census.gov.

The public is strongly encouraged to respond to the 2020 Census online using a desktop computer, laptop, smartphone, or tablet, and can also respond by phone or mail without leaving their house. These options make it easier than ever to respond to the Census while supporting social distancing efforts that help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Local officials encourage all residents to complete the Census, which determines federal funding for schools, roads, and other public services. All residents, regardless of age, race, citizenship, or background, should be counted to help ensure Iowa receives the funding and representation it needs to meet the needs of all its residents.
Check Your Smoke Alarms

With social distancing and many of us staying home, it is a good time to take a few minutes to make sure that you have working smoke alarms in your house. The risk of fire injuries and deaths has increased with people inside their homes, more cooking at home, and increased electrical usage.

Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home. They should also be installed inside and outside of sleeping areas for maximum protection. Test your smoke alarms monthly. Replace batteries at least once a year or if the smoke alarm begins to "chirp" which indicates a low battery. Some new smoke alarms allow lithium power cell batteries to be installed - these batteries may last up to ten years. Smoke alarms themselves should be replaced after ten years.

For more fire safety information, please visit our website at cedar-rapids.org/fire.
April Programs Impacted by COVID-19

Due to the COVID-19 virus, the Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department announces changes to programs and events originally scheduled to be held in April.

The following are canceled:
  • Easter Open House at the Noelridge Greenhouse, scheduled for Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12.
  • April session of swim lessons at Bender Pool. The next session of swim lessons is scheduled to be held in June.
Postponed:
  • Old MacDonald's Farm in Bever Park will tentatively open in May.
  • Arbor Day celebrations are postponed to a later date.
  • The opening of park restrooms, drinking fountains and pavilions are postponed to a date to be determined. Patrons are asked to provide their own drinking water and hand sanitizer.

Skate Park, Basketball Courts, Baseball Fields, Volleyball Courts and Tennis Courts Closed

Due to the COVID-19 virus, and the difficulty in following social distancing guidelines when using some park facilities, the City of Cedar Rapids has closed the Riverside Skate Park, outdoor basketball courts, tennis courts, sand volleyball and volleyball courts, and baseball fields. Playgrounds and outdoor exercise stations were closed previously and remain closed. Signage has been posted at closed facilities and playgrounds have been taped off. Parks, trails, disc golf and Gardner Golf Course are open. Prairie Park Fishery is also open for fishing and walking.

"While we encourage people to get outside to exercise, it is difficult to keep a distance of six feet from others when using facilities like the skate park or playing basketball. We feel these closures will assist in keeping the community safe while using parks," said Scott Hock, Parks and Recreation Director.

The public is reminded to follow CDC guidelines when using parks including:
  • Follow social distancing standards of a minimum of six feet between you and other park users.
  • Avoid areas where 10 or more people are gathered.
  • Do not use park amenities where social distancing cannot be followed.
  • Be aware that park restrooms are currently closed and water is not turned on. Please bring hand sanitizer with you.
  • Please carry out any trash that is brought into the parks.
  • If you have been sick in the last two weeks or have a cough, fever or other flu like symptoms, stay home for your health and the safety of others.
  • Individuals 60 years of age and older, or those with underlying conditions, should stay at home to avoid potential exposures.
List of Resources