ConnectCR
The ConnectCR Project is the culmination of the largest public-private partnership in Cedar Rapids. What began as two visionary ideas to revitalize Cedar Lake and create a signature bridge on the City’s segment of the American Discovery Trail, is now a reality. Learn more below.
Cedar Lake Improvements
This aspect of ConnectCR will increase and enhance recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities on and around Cedar Lake.
Improvements include:
- Accessible features: canoe/kayak launches, fishing piers
- Challenge/obstacle course
- Enhanced fishing amenities
- New east shore trail and improved trail surfaces
- Pedestrian boardwalk over lake
- Boardwalk
Detailed Improvements & Timeline
- Shoreline & Lake: 2021–2022 // Shoreline restoration, causeway bridge improvements
- Trail & Shaver Road: 2022–2023 // New East shore trail, Shaver Rd cul-de-sac, parking
- Park & Lake Amenities: 2022–2023 // Accessible canoe, kayak launch, fishing pier, shelter, restroom
- Challenge & Obstacle Course: 2022
- Landscaping & Reforestation: 2025
- North & South Shore Improvements & Elevated Boardwalk: 2025 // Elevated pedestrian boardwalk, north boardwalk and overlook, vegetated floating islands, fishing jetty, accessible fishing pier, shelter, new trail surface
Alliant Energy LightLine™
Located between NewBo and Czech Village, this new bridge provides a unique experience for pedestrians and bicyclists with a design that honors the former railroad bridge and industrial history of the area.
Bridge features include:
- 23-foot wide deck to accommodate users of all kind
- Split deck around the bridge pylon creates separate spaces for pedestrians and bicyclists
- Lighting on bridge rails and pylon
- Plazas on east and west side with historic exhibits and gathering places
- Connection to the Mt. Trashmore recreational amenities
DOWNLOAD: Pedestrian Bridge Plaza Concept
Timeline
- Engineering: 2021
- Construction begins: 2023
- Construction completed: 2024
.jpg)
ConnectCR
ConnectCR is a non-profit organization working to revitalize Cedar Lake and build a pedestrian trail across the Cedar River. This group of local residents visualized and conceived the project and approached the City about forming the public/private partnership that blends private fundraising, project development, and on-going maintenance. ConnectCR raised more than $8 million in private donations and grants, with widespread generous support from the local community and beyond. Learn more about the group at www.connectcr.org.
