The City of Cedar Rapids is building a new events center connected to the U.S. Cellular Center. The event center was identified as a priority in the 2007 Vision Cedar Rapids Downtown Framework Plan and the 2009 Neighborhood Planning Process Reinvestment Plan. During each planning process, many residents expressed interest in the development of a new specialty venue that draws a regional population.
Project Description:
The Cedar Rapids Events Center project includes the renovation of the existing U.S. Cellular Center with an addition of approximately 60,000 square feet of exhibit space and 30,000 square feet of conference and meeting room space.
Economic Impact:
The potential economic impact of the center from new event business is estimated to be over $14 million per year. When combining the events at the existing U.S. Cellular Center with those of the proposed Cedar Rapids Events Center, the economic impact by year three of full operation is estimated to be in excess of $24 million per year.
Project Timeline:
Project Funding:
- State I-Jobs Program = $15 million
- US Dept of Commerce Grant = $35 million
- Estimated Local Funds = $17 million
- Estimated Total Project Cost = $67 million
Project Reports: