Learn about the high-tech tools and teamwork driving Cedar Rapids forward
FROM THE CITY MANAGER • 2
SMART CITY SERVICES • 4 INFRASTRUCTURE TECH • 9 INNOVATION & SAFETY • 14 NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW • 20
DIRECTORIES • 24 PLAY CR WINTER/SPRING GUIDE • 25
very day, advanced technology helps keep Cedar Rapids running smoothly. Behind the scenes, City teams continually adapt to new tools and opportunities, using practical solutions and thoughtful approaches to make life better for everyone.
Technology enables smart hydrants to detect leaks earlier, traffic signals to adjust for safer traffic flow, and snowplows and garbage trucks to coordinate during storms and pickups.
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Digital tools empower staff and volunteers to focus on what matters most — providing you with essential services — while helping businesses navigate government processes and giving residents a stronger voice to share concerns.
Behind every piece of technology is a person dedicated to improving life in our community. This issue celebrates that spirit of innovation and collaboration.
Every advancement is a reminder that Cedar Rapids excels when people care, team up, and create innovative solutions together. I hope this issue inspires you to explore new ways to connect with your community, learn about the systems that support us, and appreciate the people working tirelessly behind the scenes.
Jeffrey Pomeranz Cedar Rapids City Manager citymanager@cedar-rapids.org
This issue looks at how Cedar Rapids is using technology and smart design to keep City operations running smoothly.
Digital tools help City staff, volunteers, and residents work efficiently, spot challenges, and get involved. Traffic systems communicate with signals and recognize vehicles to improve safety and traffic flow. Flood Control System pump stations and hybrid buses help manage water and reduce emissions.
City staff implement these innovative ideas to improve your daily life in ways you can see — and in ways you might not have realized. Dive into the stories to see how Cedar Rapids is improving City services and infrastructure for all.
Cedar Rapids made history in 2011 as the first city in Iowa to launch a custom mobile app. Today, that forward-thinking approach continues with a sleek, updated version of Mobile CR.
Designed with accessibility and convenience in mind, the app offers an all-in-one experience for residents looking to stay connected, informed, and engaged with the City of Five Seasons. Whether you are checking City services, reporting an issue, or exploring local events, everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Scan the code and see for yourself!
Stay informed with real-time alerts from City news, program changes, and more. Choose the updates you care about most by customizing your notification preferences.
Report issues like potholes or graffiti, track progress, and connect with City Hall anytime. My CR makes it easy to be an engaged resident — day or night.
Get personalized updates based on your address — including garbage and recycling days, police district info, nearby parks, and more — all tailored to where you live.
Sync local events, City Council meetings, and community-wide events from the Cedar Rapids Tourism office directly to your phone’s calendar — with just a tap!
We often use this tool to promote complimentary items at our public events, like City Week Open House in the fall and Resident Appreciation Day in the summer.
Find payment portals for your utility bills, parking tickets, and more — all grouped in one convenient place. No more juggling websites or paper statements.
Quickly find City contact information, book rental facilities, schedule golf tee times, check airport details, and more — all from one easy-to-navigate directory.
The map feature is one of Mobile CR’s most powerful tools — helping residents and visitors explore, navigate, and learn more about what’s happening across the community.
View live bus locations and plan routes in real time
Navigate around active work zones and stay updated on traffic impacts
Discover and learn about the City’s tree inventory
Find your next outdoor adventure while browsing our more than 106 parks and trails
Browse recent public-safety data by neighborhood and incident type
Explore public art and history at your own pace
Imagine paying your utility bill online without searching for a stamp, getting a text alert about road work before you head out the door, or reserving a tee time on your phone while standing in your kitchen. These are everyday ways Cedar Rapids residents are already connecting with the City.
This shift, from paper services to digital, has been intentional. Cedar Rapids has focused on becoming a “less-paper city,” using technology to improve service and reduce waste. The goal is simple: make our residents’ interactions with local government faster, easier, and more convenient. Implementing digital tools means less paperwork, less waiting, and more time for what matters.
For more than a century, Cedar Rapids Golf relied on paper tee sheets, rain checks, gift certificates, punch passes, and receipts. In 2025, we replaced those longstanding processes with a modern point-ofsale system and mobile app.
For golfers, the change was immediate. Tee times can be reserved at any hour online or through the app. Mobile and contactless payments shorten check-in time, leaving more time to play. For those who prefer a personal touch, staff are still happy to help. The new system adds convenience and allows the Golf team to focus more on providing optimal customer service.
After more than a century of paper-based golf systems, the move to digital tools required planning. City staff from multiple departments worked together to create a secure, reliable, and user friendly system. As with any change, there is a learning curve — so we made sure support would be in place to help both golfers and staff adjust.
The new system is designed to grow. In the future, features may include real-time course updates, text notifications, promotions, and tournament scheduling. Just as other City services are expanding digital options, Cedar Rapids Golf will continue to evolve to meet resident needs. Learn more about the new golf system at PlayCedarRapidsGolf.com
Behind the scenes, digital tools improve City operations. For example, in June, we expanded our Customer Self-Service (CSS) Portal. Residents, businesses, and contractors can now apply and pay for, and track progress on, a wider range of permits and licenses online. This includes new permit types with applications, payments, and inspection scheduling — all in one place. As part of this change, the City Clerk’s Office moved all their licenses fully online.
The CSS Portal is available anytime at CityofCR.com/CSS.
Our transition to a “less-paper city” is about more than technology. It is improving service. This approach means fewer barriers and quicker interactions. Families can pay bills in the evening with a few clicks — instead of needing to take time to mail a check or go to an office during the day.
Information about City projects, meetings, or community events arrives instantly through alerts and digital newsletters. Golfers gain extra minutes on the driving range or putting green instead of waiting on the phone or in line at the clubhouse.
on customer service. Over time, these efficiencies will generate savings we can reinvest in our facilities and infrastructure.
Cedar Rapids still relies on paper in many ways; however, we are finding opportunities to embrace digital tools. Each step toward being a less-paper city improves service and sustainability. Whether it is booking tee times, applying for a permit, or signing up for a City alert, residents gain the convenience of digital tools while the community benefits from less waste and greater efficiency.
It is late morning at Cedar Rapids Animal Care & Control (CRACC). Dogs are barking, cats are stretching, and volunteers are bustling in — ready to walk and feed the animals, clean their kennels and cages, and provide comfort.
Behind the scenes, something new is keeping all that heart running on time: a smarter volunteer scheduling system that has quietly transformed daily life at the shelter.
Not long ago, coordinating volunteers was a juggling act — emails, paper forms, back-and-forth phone calls, delayed onboarding, empty shifts. Now, everything lives in a digital hub where volunteers can:
` See open shifts in real time and sign up instantly
` Receive automatic reminders and schedule alerts
` Track hours
` Complete onboarding faster
More importantly, staff can breathe easily, knowing every shift is covered. “It’s like having an extra set of hands keeping everything running smoothly,” says Mike Casella, interim CRACC manager. “The system takes care of the details so we can take care of the animals.”
The results of this new technology are clear: wagging tails, louder purrs, and calmer kennels. Growing volunteer engagement keeps coverage consistent each week and the shelter running smoothly. With logistics handled seamlessly, staff and volunteers can spend more time focusing on what matters most — caring for the animals, supporting adoptions, and bringing comfort to every furry resident — and less time on administrative overhead. Today, a few smart clicks mean more second chances — proof that when technology meets compassion, everyone wins.
If you have ever thought, “I’d love to volunteer, but don’t know how,” this is your moment. Sign up at CityofCR.com/CRACCVolunteer today!
The City’s Municipal Volunteer Program (MVP) connects residents with all kinds of opportunities across City departments. Through MVP, you can:
` Care for and socialize animals,
` Clear snow for neighbors in need,
` Join clean-up projects,
` Volunteer for Special Olympics, youth sports, and leadership programs,
` Improve and connect your neighborhood,
` Attend or serve on City meetings and committees,
` Protect waterways and mark or adopt storm drains,
` Maintain parks and community gardens,
` And more!
Infrastructure Meets Innovation on the Road Ahead
One fast-evolving technology area we are tracking is the shift toward cleaner, more efficient vehicles. Just as residents are choosing new options that fit their lifestyles and save on fuel and maintenance, the City is preparing for tomorrow’s transportation demands today.
The City constantly explores new technologies to enhance our City fleet — vehicles we use to serve the community — by improving fuel efficiency across departments. This fiscal year marks a major milestone for the City: Cedar Rapids Transit will kick off its transition to hybrid vehicles by acquiring its first-ever hybrid transit bus. Hybrid buses combine traditional internal combustion engines with electric propulsion systems, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This is an important first step in a broader effort to modernize our transit system, reducing our environmental impact.
We have prioritized hybrid buses for their practical and immediate benefits while exploring the potential of full electrification. Hybrids require no new charging infrastructure and deliver significant emissions reductions. This makes them the right choice for Cedar Rapids as we begin our transition. Cities
that have already made the switch to hybrid buses have seen measurable benefits. Trondheim, Norway’s transportation authority reports it reduced its transit fleet’s carbon footprint by 37 percent after introducing 58 hybrid buses alongside electric models. A study of Spain’s largest cities found hybrid buses reduced life-cycle CO2 emissions by 40 percent compared to diesel, according to research published in the journal Sustainable Cities and Society.
Policies that limit engine idling have further reduced fuel use and emissions. The City is leading by example, showing that practical, everyday actions can advance climate goals while saving taxpayers money through lower fuel and maintenance costs. We are also finding opportunities to equip City facilities, like the new Kingston Yard parking ramp, with additional access to charging stations, making it easier for residents and visitors to “charge up” while supporting local businesses.
By preparing our infrastructure and rethinking how we power our own fleet, we are building a healthier community for the future. These investments align with the goals outlined in our Community Climate Action Plan, particularly in the Transportation & Mobility section, which emphasizes cleaner transportation and emissions reduction. Stay tuned as we continue to modernize our fleet and explore additional opportunities to reduce emissions and improve service for all Cedar Rapids residents.
Scan to learn more about the City's sustainability efforts
The process of removing snow and ice from city streets is more complicated than you might realize. From liquids and lasers to tracking devices and emergency routes, technology and innovation lead the way in the City’s snow-removal efforts.
Snowplow operators clear more than 1,400 lane miles and 30 miles of sidewalks during typical snow events. Crews use a variety of equipment, such as snow blowers, truck-mounted plows, and motor graders. More than 90 such pieces of equipment go out during most snow events. The City's Public Works Department closely monitors winter weather to plan out our storm response in advance. The team holds large group meetings to ensure every crew member is on the same page before providing 24-hour coverage throughout major snow events.
Before snow falls, crews start pre-treating roadways to help prevent frost ahead of the next commute. As snow starts falling, crews focus on keeping major “arterial” roads and snow-emergency routes open first. These are busier routes that connect many businesses, neighborhoods, and emergency-service providers.
The City shares information on our website and social media pages to inform you that we are applying brine on roads before a winter storm. Have you ever wondered what that means or why we do it? Brine is a mixture of roughly 23 percent salt and 77 percent water, used to prevent snow and ice from bonding to the roadway.
“This tool, paired with clear communication, can help residents make informed decisions about travel — and get a clearer picture of the scale of our operations and why it can take some time to reach every residential street.”
M ike Duffy, Assistant Public Works Director
Using liquid with salt is less expensive, and far more effective, than putting salt down by itself. Salt tends to scatter around when it is dropped from plows; brine stays in place where it is sprayed. Temperatures can limit salt’s effectiveness. When temperatures drop below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, salt takes longer to melt ice. To counter this, we have been using new and innovative additives to increase the effectiveness of salt at lower temperatures — even below zero degrees!
The technology we use in our operations has continued to improve over time. Today, plow trucks have special tanks that mix the right amount of solids with liquids and scatter just what is needed to keep roadways clear. Technology gauges our vehicles’ speed to regulate the amount of material coming out of the equipment. Combined, these techniques improve environmental outcomes and extend the life of our road network by not over distributing snow-fighting materials.
The City also uses swap loaders — specialized trucks that can be converted from a snow plow, to a dump truck hauling sand, to a brine spreader. Having the ability to switch a truck’s function quickly allows the City to maintain a smaller, more efficient fleet.
Another interesting application of technology: lasers mounted on truck cabs help operators precisely follow plow paths, ensuring more accurate snow clearing. Several of the City’s innovative efforts have earned national recognition. In 2024, the Public Works Department received the American Public
Works Association (APWA) Excellence in Snow and Ice Control Award for its use of advanced snow-removal technology and smart materials management. Building on that success, Assistant Public Works Director Mike Duffy and Street Supervisor Brett Lerch have shared Cedar Rapids’ snow-fighting strategies with other cities, training crews on best practices developed over years of experience.
This winter, the City will roll out a new plow-tracking system for residents. The system will display plow locations in real time and show how much brine or other materials are being applied. “This tool, paired with clear communication, can help residents make informed decisions about travel — and get a clearer picture of the scale of our operations and why it can take some time to reach every residential street,” said Duffy. The tracking system will be launched later this year and available at CityofCR.com/Snow
Today’s fleet uses spinners to distribute snowand ice-fighting materials based on speed. Soon, predictive-artificial-intelligence (AI) could monitor conditions like pavement and air temperature, friction, traffic, and snow accumulation to make real-time adjustments. Duffy, who has been with the City for 16 years, says things have come a long way. He noted, “There is very little trial and error anymore. We know what each material will do. Using less material in a smarter way saves the City money.”
Every time a new piece of the Cedar River Flood Control System comes online, it is a win for our community. It means we need fewer temporary measures, like HESCO barriers, to fight floods. It also means better protection against the kinds of natural disasters we saw in 2008 and 2016.
Technology can be more than digital 1s and 0s on a screen. It can also be mechanical, green, and adapt to nature — like infrastructure that works efficiently with the landscape to protect natural resources and reduce environmental harm — without requiring digital tools or software. Our Flood Control System consists of multiple green technologies that help us protect against rising water levels. One example? Pump stations.
When river levels rise, we close underground stormsewer pipes and above-ground flood gates to keep the river from flowing into neighborhoods. Normally, the underground pipes carry rainwater from streets and neighborhoods to the river. If it rains while the underground pipes are closed, rainwater cannot drain to the river. Without pump stations, this water would get trapped on the protected side of the Flood Control System (interior flooding). Instead, the water is redirected to detention basins, where it can collect and wait to be pumped over the flood wall.
The Czech Village segment of the Flood Control System features a reinforced concrete wall, stretching from 12th–16th Avenue SW, and a flood gate across 16th Avenue SW. It also includes a pedestrian swinggate opening that closes when river levels reach 18.8 feet. This protects the river from swelling out of its banks and causing above-ground flooding.
Built into these walls is a large pump station — dedicated in August and the largest so far in our Flood Control System. The pump station sits atop an underground gate that can close off the storm sewer system from the river. When needed, the station can pump roughly 74,000 gallons of water per minute (gpm) from nearby detention basins, up and over the floodwall and back into the river. We have the ability to expand this capacity to 148,000 gpm in the future if needed.
The Czech Village Pump Station is designed to protect, while also contributing to, the neighborhood where it is located. This means we designed the pump station to mimic the look of buildings in the surrounding district, making sure it blends into the neighborhood's historical character.
Creating a system that protects us from flooding while integrating seamlessly into our everyday lives has been a key goal from the start. Innovation and creative thinking have played important roles along the way — from examples like how the McGrath Amphitheatre turns a flood-control levee into a performance space, to hiding a pump station out of view in the downtown CRST tower’s parking garage.
"Not only is this project protecting the neighborhood, it is putting infrastructure in place to allow the neighborhood to grow."
R ob Davis, Flood Control System Manager
Engineers use physics — and technologies like design, materials science, and structural engineering — to creatively address constraints and help the system blend into our everyday lives. According to Flood Control System Manager Rob Davis, early designs of the Czech Village Pump Station were too large, raising concerns of overwhelming the nearby National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. To reduce the size of the pump station, nearby land needed to be allocated for a detention basin.
During high-water events, our Water Pollution Control staff work around the clock, using special technology to continuously monitor, operate, and maintain the pump stations remotely. This means no employees are required on site to ensure the pumps, screens, and control systems are functioning. The pump stations also rely on technology like redundant systems of power, including two separate feeds of natural gas. That way, if one energy source has to be shut down during a flood event, the station can continue operating.
Engineers reconfigured Riverside Park to add a detention basin, allowing the Czech Village Pump Station to be reduced in scale by 37 percent. This cut project costs by $6 million while also funding required park improvements from a portion of the savings. Davis pointed out how the Czech Village segment was thoughtfully designed to incorporate a storm sewer pipe necessary to allow for the future construction of the LightLine Loop project. “Not only is this project protecting the neighborhood,” said Davis, “it is putting infrastructure in place to allow the neighborhood to grow.”
Pump stations mark another important step toward a safer, stronger Cedar Rapids — and a future where our community can face rising waters with confidence.
SIMULATION SCENARIO 1
A domestic-assault report becomes an armed, intoxicated husband threatening to shoot his wife and child if the officer doesn’t leave. What is their next action?
SIMULATION SCENARIO 2
A late-night traffic stop becomes a chase through a residential neighborhood, ending with two officers under fire. How should they proceed?
On the street, police officers need to be prepared for any scenario. Today, advanced simulator training allows trainees to experiment with multiple tactics in these situations without endangering others.
The Cedar Rapids Police Department brings officer preparedness to the next level with a state-of-the-art firearms training simulator developed by VirTra, a leader in immersive law enforcement training technology.
Spearheaded by Sergeant Jason Weininger, the Department’s lead firearms and simulator instructor, the system offers officers a highly realistic and adaptable training environment.
“Our simulator provides realistic training in a controlled environment where instructors can adjust scenarios based on officers’ actions and reactions,” said Weininger. “It allows us to challenge our officers in ways that traditional training cannot replicate.”
The simulator projects lifelike scenes onto large screens, immersing officers in realistic training scenarios where they must make split-second decisions under pressure. These can include situations like routine traffic stops, active threats, domestic incidents, and more.
What sets the system apart is its flexibility. Most scenarios have many possible outcomes and trainers can modify the course of events in real time, tailoring the experience to each officer’s responses.
One of the simulator’s most significant advantages is its ability to create localized scenarios. The Police Department has built out custom scenarios that reflect real-world locations and situations officers might encounter in Cedar Rapids. “We are able to produce our own scenarios, which means we can train for incidents specific to our community,” Weininger explained.
officers practice communication and decision-making skills in tense situations, aligning with the Department’s ongoing commitment to community-focused policing and appropriate use of force.
Investigator, and firearms and simulator instructor, Lyndi Bieber says the simulator is a critical development tool for new and experienced officers who are intent on providing residents with the best possible outcomes.
"Our simulator provides realistic training in a controlled environment where instructors can adjust scenarios based on officers’ actions and reactions. It allows us to challenge our officers in ways that traditional training cannot replicate."
Sergeant Jason Weininger
Another key benefit is the use of weapons that are identical to those currently issued by the Department. This lets officers train with the same tools they carry in the field, reinforcing muscle memory and improving response accuracy. The simulator also supports de-escalation training, helping
“This training gives officers the chance to analyze their actions, learn from potential mistakes, and, hopefully, save lives on the street,” said Bieber.
Sergeant Weininger shared a final thought about the benefit of the virtual training simulator. “This is about preparing our officers to make the best decisions possible in the most challenging moments. The simulator gives us a safe, effective way to do that.”
By integrating this advanced technology into its training program, the Cedar Rapids Police Department is not only enhancing officer readiness — it is reinforcing the City’s dedication to public safety and professional development.
You have seen our garbage, recycling, and yardwaste trucks. Do you know just how much they mean to our community? Garbage collection keeps homes and neighborhoods safe by removing waste that could spread germs or attract pests. Every week, hundreds of trucks travel our streets, protecting public health.
Each week, collection routes cover hundreds of miles, picking up an average of 650 carts per day per route from 53,545 total households!
To ensure the best service for you, our customers, we equip every garbage, recycling, and yard waste truck with special technology that helps us improve efficiency, reduce delays, and protect public health.
Routeware is an onboard computer system that uses GPS-based technology to track collection routes, monitor operations in real time, and record data. Each truck has video recording and route tracking systems that give crews and supervisors the tools they need to improve accuracy and efficiency in real time.
You may have noticed that our service reliability has quietly improved over the past few years. Routeware has been key to that success, decreasing the number of missed collections and helping drivers respond more quickly to route changes and service questions.
The new system helps trucks follow more efficient routes, saving fuel. Because routes can vary daily, your weekly pickup time may change. To ensure service, please have all carts at the curb by 7 a.m. each collection day.
` Fewer Missed Stops: Real-time monitoring ensures reliable pickups.
` Cost Savings: Reduced miles driven and less fuel consumed lowers operating costs and limits the need for excessive fee increases.
` Sustainability: Decreased emissions support Cedar Rapids’ Community Climate Action Plan.
The City is committed to continuous improvement. Providing cleaner, more efficient, and cost-effective service is a top priority. Routeware is just one of the ways we are investing in smarter solutions for our community. Learn more about collection services at CityofCR.com/Garbage
Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa’s pediatricians are more than just doctors – they’re trusted p a r t ne rs in y our c h ild ’ s h e al t h j o u rne y F r om n ewborns t o adolescent s , w e o ff e r
comprehensive c are, including routine check-ups, immunizations, well-child visits, and chronic condition management.
Your child’s health is our top priority, and we take the time to ensure you and your child feel heard and supported every step of the way
Accepting new patients! Call (319) 247-3820 or easily schedule online.
SAVING WATER:
Water main breaks are often sudden and unpredictable, caused by aging infrastructure, shifts in ground temperature, or pressure surges known as “water hammer.” When they occur, Cedar Rapids crews act quickly to restore service and make repairs. Beyond their immediate inconvenience and cost, water main breaks can harm local ecosystems. Catching breaks early can help conserve water, reduce repair expenses, and minimize disruptions to neighbors, businesses, and the environment.
Imagine this scenario: a water main near McLoud Run breaks overnight . Without immediate detection, thousands of gallons of treated water spill into the stream before the issue is discovered the next morning. While crews contain the break before any severe infrastructure damage is done, chlorine has already impacted the trout population.
Treated drinking water is safe for people — but the chlorine used in the treatment process can be harmful to fish. When it spills into streams and rivers, it can disrupt habitats and threaten wildlife, including sensitive species like the trout in McLoud Run, Iowa’s only urban trout stream.
If you notice standing water in streets, or suspect a main break, report it through My CR, call 319-286-5900, or email watermail@cedar-rapids.org .
Cedar Rapids is piloting iHydrant technology, designed to detect water main breaks faster while maintaining reliable, high-quality drinking water. Monitoring hydrants in real time, the system spots sudden drops in pressure, which are often the first sign of a break. This kind of high-tech, early detection can prevent contamination, reduce long-term pipe damage, and avoid the costly loss of treated water.
Over the next year, our team will evaluate an iHydrant pilot project in areas near McCloud Run, reviewing the quantity and quality of data collected. This will help determine whether the technology can be useful in other areas of our citywide water distribution system.
` Faster detection, response, and repairs mean fewer service interruptions for homes and businesses.
` Reducing water loss saves both money and natural resources.
` Proactive monitoring supports Cedar Rapids’ commitment to sustainability, watershed health, and addressing aging infrastructure in a cost-effective manner.
Safety is a key priority for our City’s traffic engineers. Managing that traffic can be a moving target. Traffic conditions can change in an instant thanks to detours, vehicle breakdowns, or crashes.
City traffic engineers stay on top of those conditions through an innovative system of live, pan-tilt-zoom cameras. The cameras allow for real-time monitoring of intersections, provide live feedback when traffic backups occur, and even help traffic engineers modify traffic light timing from a centralized office. We began installing our system of 162 cameras in 2016.
Using a software program known as Centracs, traffic engineers “optimize” the length of time red and green lights show before allowing the next set of vehicles through an intersection. They do this by monitoring how many vehicles typically use a street during different times of the day and week. Based on that information, timing can be adjusted to increase the number of vehicles that can make it through the signal and enhance overall safety of this operation.
As an example, in August, a crash on I-380 caused traffic to re-route on to Highway 965. Using the cameras, engineers quickly learned the intersection of Wright Brothers Boulevard at 6th Street SW was taking on far more traffic than usual. The pan-tiltzoom nature of the cameras allowed engineers to
explore in 360-degrees to learn more about the issue. Then, they were able to change the traffic signal pattern so cars could get through faster. Finally, they returned the signals to their regular timing once the detour ended.
Recorded video from the cameras also helps traffic engineers and public safety investigators understand how and why crashes happen. This information has led engineers to implement countermeasures to address visibility challenges, preventing future crashes at the same locations.
The cameras also allow Public Works staff to monitor road conditions during weather events and respond to road conditions, traffic issues, accidents, and more. Technology makes it possible for Cedar Rapids to continuously improve and adjust traffic in real time, respond to emergencies, and make our roads safer and more efficient.
Traffic cameras are just one piece of a broader Public Safety Camera System that blends technology with community safety in Cedar Rapids. Our system includes Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) and cameras in parks and downtown that have helped solve crimes, recover stolen vehicles, locate missing persons, monitor crowd safety, and more. Data is automatically deleted after 30 days, with access limited to authorized agencies who are required to log how and why they are accessing the data. Stay in the loop with
Picture paying your utility bill online in the evening, reporting a traffic sign obscured by street trees via mobile app, or getting text and email alerts regarding upcoming City projects. These are just a few of the ways people are already connecting with the City of Cedar Rapids every day.
We have invested in digital tools that make our services easier to reach, 24/7. You can complete permit applications, check the status of requests or questions, and receive updates by email, text, and digital newsletters — with each option saving you time, reducing paperwork, and keeping you informed about what matters most.
While residents enjoy more seamless access to the City, staff see benefits too. Electronic requests reduce errors, improve tracking, and free up more time to respond directly to community needs.
In June, we expanded our Customer Self-Service (CSS) Portal. Residents, businesses, and contractors can now apply, track, and pay for a wider range of permits and licenses online. Building Services added new permit types with applications, payments, and inspection scheduling in one place. The City Clerk’s Office moved all their licenses fully online. The CSS Portal is available at CityofCR.com/CSS
Through My CR, residents can submit requests, report concerns, and follow progress in real time. Requests go directly to the right department, helping staff respond quickly and avoid duplication.
Residents can receive timely updates on service changes, construction projects, community events, and more! A family planning their week might get a reminder by text or email without needing to search for details. You can also find a list of alerts, newsletters, and the City’s social media pages to get digital information in your preferred format at CityofCR.com/Subscribe
We know not everyone prefers digital tools, so the City continues to meet you where you are. Residents can still call customer service, visit City buildings, and ask staff to file requests on their behalf. Digital options are designed to enhance traditional services — not replace them — giving you more ways to connect with confidence and ease. That is smarter service for a stronger community, around the clock.
Even with interior heating, water meters and pipes can freeze if exposed to cold air. Here are some simple steps to protect your home:
` Ensure your water shutoff valve works. Test it by turning it on and off; if it’s not functional, contact a plumber.
` Eliminate drafts near meters or pipes by sealing cracks and covering drafty windows with plastic or insulation. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
` Insulate pipes exposed to cold air with wrap containing fiberglass or other insulation materials.
` Cover your water meter with a blanket or rug.
` Disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets and shut off indoor valves leading to them.
` Keep your home's temperature above 55°F, even if you are not home for an extended period.
` If outdoor temperatures drop below 10 degrees, you might leave a thin stream of water running from the tap furthest from your water meter to prevent freezing.
If your pipes freeze, never use an open flame to thaw them. Instead, try wrapping the frozen area with rags soaked in hot water, or use a hair dryer. Avoid using heat tapes or space heaters, as they can cause fires. When in doubt, contact a licensed plumber.
If you notice leaks or water spraying from your meter, or if the bottom is cracked, your meter may be frozen. Call the Water Division immediately. Note that there is a charge for meter replacement.
Pipes along exterior walls are the most likely to freeze. To thaw them, contact
a licensed plumber or use hot towels or a hair dryer. Never use an open flame or heat tape, as these can cause fires.
CHECK WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS
If you and your neighbors are without water, there may be a water main break. Call the Water Division to report the issue.
AIR LEAKS
Inspect windows and doors for air leaks, especially near water pipes. Seal any cracks with caulk, insulating foam, or weather stripping.
FURNACE
Replace furnace filters regularly, about once a month or as directed by the instructions on your furnace and filter. Consider having a professional inspect your furnace to ensure it’s ready for winter.
GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS
Extra debris in your gutters can create ice dams and drainage issues that could damage your home. Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris before heading into winter.
FIRE PREVENTION
Make sure there is a fire extinguisher on each floor of your home and in your garage. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace smoke detectors every 10 years and carbon monoxide alarms every five years.
SHOVEL & THAW WITH CARE
Be prepared with a winter shovel and de-icer. When snow and ice melt, the water runs into our rivers and streams, affecting wildlife, water quality, and causing pavement, sidewalk, and foundation deterioration. Choose environmentally friendly de-icing products and follow the instructions so you use only as much as you need — a little goes a long way. Remove any resulting slush to prevent refreezing.
Cedar Rapids Tree Lighting
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 | 4:30–6 PM
Following the event, enjoy the Five Seasons Lights at McGrath Amphitheatre, presented by Farmers State Bank and running through Sunday, December 28.
We need more volunteers for the Snow Buddies program to help residents clear snow and ice from their sidewalks this winter. Volunteers must be at least 18 and bring their own snow-removal tools. Snow Heroes are assigned based on need and location, helping after snowfalls of two inches or more. Clearing sidewalks is required by City Code; the Snow Buddies program ensures everyone can get around safely after winter weather. Sign up at CityofCR.com/SnowBuddies.
THANKSGIVING Thursday, Nov. 27
No collection, 1 day delay remainder of week Leaf collection delayed 1 day for SW Quadrant
CHRISTMAS Thursday, Dec. 25
No collection, 1 day delay remainder of week
NEW YEAR’S DAY Thursday, Jan. 1
No collection, 1 day delay remainder of week
DEC. 15 – FEB. 27: YARD WASTE CALL-IN ONLY
STARTING THURSDAY, DEC. 26
Collection runs through January 16th
Natural, unflocked trees must be cut into sections no larger than six feet.
Please set piles at least three feet from your collection carts on your normal garbage day.
CITY SERVICE LOCATION
Animals
7241 Washington View Parkway SW 319-286-5993
Assessor City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW 319-286-5888
Bid Opportunities
City Hall, 101 1st Street SE 319-286-5021
Building and Housing Codes City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW 319-286-5831
Buses
Ground Transportation Center, 319-286-5573
450 1st Street SE
Fire Safety Inspections 713 1st Avenue SE 319-286-5166
Garbage, Recycling and City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW 319-286-5897
Yard Waste Collection
Housing Assistance Programs City Hall, 101 1st Street SE 319-286-5872
Land Development City Hall, 101 1st Street SE 319-286-5822
EMAIL ADDRESS
AnimalControlMgmt@Cedar-Rapids.org
CRAssessor@Cedar-Rapids.org
Bid-Purchasing@Cedar-Rapids.org
Building@Cedar-Rapids.org
CRTransit@Cedar-Rapids.org
CRFire@Cedar-Rapids.org
Solid-Waste-Recycling@Cedar-Rapids.org
HSG-Admin@Cedar-Rapids.org
DevelopmentServices@Cedar-Rapids.org
Park Rentals City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW 319-286-5566 Recreation@Cedar-Rapids.org
Potholes and Street City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW 319-286-5826 Street@Cedar-Rapids.org
Maintenance
Recreation Programs Northwest Recreation Center, 319-286-5566
Recreation@Cedar-Rapids.org 1340 11th Street NW
Sewer Backup or Problems City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW 319-286-5815
Traffic Signals, Signs and City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW 319-286-5176
Markings
Utility Billing City Hall, 101 1st Street SE 319-286-5900
Sewer@Cedar-Rapids.org
Traffic@Cedar-Rapids.org
WaterMail@Cedar-Rapids.org
For more information about the City of Cedar Rapids and its services, call 319-286-5080 or visit CityofCR.com.
MAYOR
To leave a message for a City Council member, call 319-286-5051. Find your district at LinnCountyElections.org.
Tiffany O’Donnell t.odonnell@cedar-rapids.org
DISTRICT 1
Martin Hoeger m.hoeger@cedar-rapids.org
DISTRICT 2
Scott Overland s.overland@cedar-rapids.org
DISTRICT 3
Dale Todd d.todd@cedar-rapids.org
DISTRICT 4
Scott Olson scott.olson@cedar-rapids.org
DISTRICT 5
Ashley Vanorny a.vanorny@cedar-rapids.org
AT LARGE
David Maier d.maier@cedar-rapids.org
AT LARGE
Tyler Olson t.olson@cedar-rapids.org
AT LARGE
Ann Poe ann.poe@cedar-rapids.org
In Cedar Rapids, welcome doesn’t just mean “we’re open.”
Welcome is an invitation to be a part of the community we’ve been building for nearly 200 years. Welcome means people coming together, building a better city, while remaining true to our roots.
Welcome means you are a part of this community.
In Cedar Rapids, welcome is our language.