CVNB Appendix Final

CZECH VILLAGE / NEW BOHEMIA MAIN STREET DISTRICT
STRATEGIC REVITALIZATION PLAN

APPENDIX
September 2013
The following data sets, studies and publications were referenced in the
completion of the Strategic Revitalization Plan. These documents augment
the information contained in the Plan and should be used to complement the
recommendations contained in the complete plan.
Strategic Revitalization Plan Public Survey Results
National Register of Historic Places: Bohemian Commercial Historic
District (boundary increase)
Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District Market Study Summary
City of Cedar Rapids Neighborhood Planning Process (Sasaki)
Documents current at time of publication; validate prior to reference.
Potential Funding sources
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Code of Ordinances,
Czech Bohemia Overlay District
Chapter 32B Floodplain Management Ordinance

OPN Architects
Survey Results
SURVEY RESULTS
Strategic Revitalization Plan- appendix
Survey overview
The online survey was active for 2 months starting on October 29th,
2012
Promoted via email, Facebook, Twitter and traditional media
Total Participants = 412
SURVEY RESULTS
Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District - Strategic Revitalization Plan
How often do you come to the Czech

Village/ New Bo Main Street District?
Never
a few times
a year
3%
Daily
Why dont you come to the

District?
Just never think about it
I don't know what's there.
Was unaware of until recently.
We moved here in June and just haven't. Its

really hard to find information of stuff going on
in CR.
There is currently nothing there that interests

me.
Just don't know enough about it.
Not sure what to do in the district.
18%
22%
once or
once or
twice a
twice a
month
week
31%
26%
SURVEY RESULTS
Which groups should the district

appeal to?
How do you get to the District?
400
300
300
200
250
100
0
200
150
100
50
250
200
150
100
50
0
Singles
Seniors
Teens
Children
Pet
Owners
SURVEY RESULTS
What brings you to the District?
The Historic character of the

district is important.
300
250
Disagree
No Opinion
3%
3%
200
Strongly
Disagree
2%
150
Agree
100
32%
50
Other
Museums
Businesses
Restaurants / Bars
Services
Shopping (food)
Art
Shopping (retail)
Live Music
I work in the District
Festivals
I live in the District
Strongly
Agree
60%
SURVEY RESULTS
List three words that describe the

District today.
Wordle is an online tool for generating word clouds from text that you provide. The clouds give
greater prominence to words that appear more frequently in the source text.
SURVEY RESULTS
Which annual events do you

attend?
200
150
100
50
0
SURVEY RESULTS
What do you like about the District

today?
the new changes that are coming

truly unique businesses and preservation efforts
It seems to have a great new energy
NewBo City Market, Brewed Cafe, NCSML, street art, new businesses opening all
the time
I like the changes that are taking place
diversity of shops; attitude regarding flood recovery
The history and the variety
lots of great businesses within walking distance of each other
Art, restaurants, and its overall eclectic culture
City Market, Restaurants, CSPS
historical aspects honored & respected beside new ideas
restaurants, improved shopping
Unique restaurants
emphasis on live music, theater and museum
that there is great momentum and pride. good mix of shopping, culture and
food/drink
Restaurants
the energy
Energy and feel of something different
The feel of the area and the looks.
Restaurants, museum
the variety of restaurants available, the addition of NewBo Books and the Farmers
Market.
We frequent Sykora's and Smuggler's Wharf the most.
Pedestrian area with decent nightlife.
The atmosphere and the variety
The artsy feel of the streets, lamp posts, businesses, etc.
The mix of businesses, restaurants and now market
Uniqueness
NewBo has had a huge renaissance, the arts, the entertainment. the new market
have given our city a destination worth experiencing
seeing more people!
NewBo City Market, renovated CSPS, Brewed Cafe, Batas -- all very exciting
additions to our city!
The NewBo Market and surrounding businesses are exactly what Cedar Rapids
needed. What a fun place!
So much to see and do and lots of variety of programming
New choices in restaurants -- it is kind of becoming a magnet area for where to
eat. Usually pretty easy to park, too.
NewBo Market and the old world feel of Czech village (16th avenue)
the varied uses of historic buildings
Quality restaurants, my favorite is Parlor City.
I LOVE the district! I think it is where all the most wonderful things in Cedar Rapids
are taking place or will take shape in coming years. There is an excitement that you
can feel and be a part of when you are in the district.
Historic character and preservation efforts paying off
art and music
New Streets
Most owners really care about their business and you can tell (ie:Parlor City) seems like it's on the brink of something great
Walkability of area, close knit community feel.
The development of new and different things to see and do.
I like the steps that local developers and the city are taking to beautify the area,
and bring new and innovating ideas to the area. I also enjoy the restaurant scene
down there.
The local businesses to shop or dine in.
It brings a vibe that CR has needed for a long time. If it continues to grow we wont
have to go to other cities.
Watching the above change
I think the NewBo district is thriving.
the variety
the culture
NewBo Market and restaurants
I like the new things popping up to bring people to town!
active development
The variety of shops and restaurants
The new things coming through
exciting, style, fun
A sense of pride.
That it has done a great job of blending Cedar Rapids' historical heritage with new
purposes and is a creative, vibrant, non-corporate environment. It has heart and
soul.
the history of it, antique shops, fun festivals
SURVEY RESULTS

today?
It's growing, it's becoming a neighborhood for locals to gather i.e. the Ped Mall in
Iowa City or Court Avenue in Des Moines. Cedar Rapids doesn't really have that.
All the new businesses and focus on sustainable.
parking is free and abundant, Parlor City has great food and good music on
Sunday evenings - that is the only place we visit in NewBo, don't visit Czech
Village
location
NEWBO MARKET!
More activities and places for young professionals to hang out
Variety of independent businesses. NewBo Market is awesomez
The energy Cedar Rapids has needed for a long time.
The old buildings that have been or are being refurbished, the possibilities for
more retail and residents, nice green spaces.
Restaurants and old-town feel of the area.
Food, fun, and history
it's uniqueness
The options available
museum & NewBo
LOVE the City Market. Am very excited to start going to the district more often.
shopping and vibe
Always something new & fun going on
Fresh food and activities
Parlor City, NewBo City Market
Newbo market!
the NewBo Market, restaurant
The walkability, the potential the area has.
strong sense of optimism, purpose and direction; makes me very proud
If the money comes, they will build wall to protect the west side also.....
The new growth and vibrancy of the area
CSPS Hall
The variety of bars, restaurants and that they are bicycle friendly
Wide variety of musical events at CSPS, restaurants, the bookstore, and now the
market
that its growing so much. there are plenty of things to do within walking distance
of my apt.
NewBo Market
NewBo city market
NewBo Market
Has a different character than downtown for going out.
the restaurants/cafes & the new market
Opportunity, excitement, uniqueness
beer
It's staying true to its Czech roots of hard working, innovative places that are
INVITING to all people.
Its getting better and is more than coming back from the flood ... It will get there
the variety
cultural vibe, urban feel among historic landmarks, walkable, trail system, people
I like the new things happening, the new design
The addition of Newbo Market, the different restaurants and CSPS.
NewBo City Market, Brewed Cafe, Smuggler's Wharf
the character of the buildings! Thank you for not tearing the old down
Being able to cross to cross the street safely as I am a senior citizen
Its unique culture and urban atmosphere. The NewBo City Market and surrounding
business.
NewBo Market
The feeling of community
I feel like I belong there. We visit Parlor City often. It is one place in CR that all
ages can enjoy. Great music, staff, food, BEER, and atmosphere.
Parlor City Pub, CSPS, NewBo Books, NewBo City Market
bars, beer, food
The energy
see above
variety
Newbo market restaurants bars arts
Atmosphere
Architecture, atmosphere, culture
All the energy and new offerings
lots of small business owners, great music
The area has cleaned itself up some from when I grew up in the area on C Street,
the museum has made a bit of a change to the area, but in my opinion it's still
known for its bars and night life.
Friendly, new, good food, variety
The family-friendly artsy feel.
The multiple options of things to do and see
Newborn city market
The art opportunities: renovated CSPS, Cherry building, bookstore/coffee shop
SURVEY RESULTS

today?
It is getting better and better, a real destination

new big city feel
Cupcakes at NewBo
NewBo market, business district, live entertainment
NewBo City Market
Its hipness
historic yet modern feel in NewBo
It's an eclectic mix of people and business that are locally owned, and preserve
historic areas. Repurposed, reused, and reinvented spaces. It's not
commercialized, and is a great locally flavored area.
NewBo market, Brewed cafe, NewBo books, parlor city. If more businesses
opened like that, the district would thrive.
The shops, the historic look
it's a forum for interesting people and stuff in cedar rapids
I love that there is life being put back in these historical places!
antiques, great bars with great brews, great service,
vibrancy
charm and quality of life it projects
Accessible, vibrant
Restaurants/food
I like the commitment to the history and the arts.
That the culture is expanding to include healthy choices and events, not just bars.
It is becoming a destination.
It is lively.
all the things to see and do
diversity
Coop bicycle shop
the history and vintage shops
arts orientation
NewBo opportunities
Love the energy and new biz happening
variety, tolerance, friendly
it's forward movement, uniqueness

It is an artistic and cultural gathering place with a strong link to CR Heritage and
respect for the historic buildings in the area. The buildings and the people have
individuality and unique personalities. it is a fun part of town to be in.
Artist
Cultural events
Redevelopment, preservation
Locally owned
Redevelopment, historical preservation, cultural events
good
I love the atmosphere...especially with the addition of NewBo Market.
walkability
The preserved urban grit - not dirty or overly industrial.
There seems to be a lot of opportunity for outdoor activities (shopping, eating,
etc). I also like the community atmosphere
The variety of reasons to visit it - mostly food related
I like the close proximity of good bars, restaurants, etc.
It created a kind of vibe that this city has needed for so long.
Variety
I like there are some good options for food. brewed cafe.
It makes me feel I have a centralized place where I can get local food, bike there,
entertainment and fests.
Laid back area with a decent amount to do.
The historic character of the remaining building stock, the NewBo Market has
helped bring activity back to the district, the locally owned businesses
the buildings
Newbo market, restaurants
Great Food Options. CR has too many chains.
Finally...a true destination location other than Lindale Mall and Collins Road and
franchise restaurants. I like the diversity, the emphasis on culture, the
repurposing of old buildings, the freshness of new businesses.
I'm as likely to run into a tattoo as I am a phd.
Open wide sidewalks, bike trail close by
Revitalization, Arts, Entertainment, 3rd St.
culture, food, drink
The village or district feel with a variety of entertainment
The continued progress I see. Very positive.
The promise it has for the revitalization of the downtown area.
you can smell the excitement in the air
Something new and different to the area with the previous places still in place
(Chrome Horse, Parlor City)
SURVEY RESULTS

today?
fun place to hang out with family and/or friends

the historic theme
NewBo City Market and a variety of restaurants all together
The effort to make improvements; to get young adults to participate in their city.
Unique venues, businesses, living options that can't find anywhere else in the city
character
The restaurants and bars and festivals
The enthusiasm of the community to bring it back
That its development has been, so far, fairly organic.
It's a hub of activity, arts and events
restaurants, coffee house, farmers market
Increasing density of culturally diverse activities
Restaurants and new businesses. Haven't made it to NewBo yet but will very
soon.
Always seems to be things going on
It's slowly getting better; more to do
the new businesses and the shift in culture
Market
Great Potential
it is very cleaned up, tidy and sharp looking
more and more to do
The local businesses and that it is generally bicycle friendly. Bike lanes and less
rude motorists would help that though ;)
It's the only part of Cedar Rapids that has character like what you'd find in Iowa
City or Davenport
the vitality
I enjoy going to the NCM store and eating at the Frog.
It vitality
Color, Liveliness
good restaurants/bars, NewBo market, lots to do within a walking distance of each
other
"Hip" artistic feel.
I like that it's taking shape and looks like it will become a great place to visit.
Its beginning to look like a cultural arts district; a place to be proud of in our city.
NewBo Market, Unique places to go
local business, unique atmosphere, dedicated community members
more businesses, increasing variety, historic character
Special events, walkability
Regrowth
It is taking on a relaxing atmosphere that encourages migration throughout the
time you spend there.
something else to do in the city, appealing to many groups of people
Desire to improve while retaining history
a new beginning.
SURVEY RESULTS
What do you think is missing from

the District?
Wordle is an online tool for generating word clouds from text that you provide. The clouds give
greater prominence to words that appear more frequently in the source text.
SURVEY RESULTS
Housing in the District
What kind of housing would

you look for?
Would you live in the

Maybe
32%
District?
120
Yes
32%
No
36%
100
80
60
40
20
Would you like to:

Buy
65%
Rent
35%
SURVEY RESULTS
Would you live in the district?

If No, Why?
- Answers received, other then I like where I live now
School district
Safety
It doesn't seem like a family friendly area with much outdoor play space. Would
worry about crime.
Not ideal for a growing family. Would definitely consider if single or once the kids
leave the house.
If I were at a different stage in my life, i DEFINITELY consider living in the District.
Seems to have a higher crime rate than other areas of Cedar Rapids
I have no interest in living in the city.
I have young children so prefer to be closer to playgrounds and have a large yard
to play in. But we love to visit it as a destination.
The area is surrounded by abandon buildings and the area has a high crime rate.
I have a young child and own a home with a backyard.
It is not my style I have large dogs and kids. I think it is a great place for young
singles or young married couples to start out.
I would love to live in the Water Tower or Bottle Works but won't even consider it
due to the train horns! Every intersection, like 12 times from the time it crosses
from Penford until it goes by the US Cell Center! Stop the train horns all night
long!
flood zone
I want to live in the country
Houses are not recovered from the flood. Poor neighborhood at night.
it is not close to work for me or close to a major road to get there
Schools
too close to the river - flooding. flood plain should be reserved for open green
space
Not family friendly area
bad area
We have a young child and prefer the Linn-Mar schools.
Schools
Too far from work.
not my kind of thing
Needs better schools nearby plus housing for higher income families
too close to river, lost out in last flood
Like living outside of town
dangerous area at night.

Not near my job
Fears of another flood and parking complications.
Too many bars and motorcycles. It does not feel kid friendly. With the bus and vehicle
traffic, I could never imagine my kids playing outside, safely.
potential floods, not a house I would like
It's still doesn't feel quite safe enough.
Not family friendly
No variety in housing
it's not near work, daycare, school, etc.
I never considered moving back to the area, and definitely not to the flooded area.
Doesn't seem developed for large single family homes with 4+ bedrooms
Too far from my work and family
I like to have a large garden.
Flood, lack of housing, crime
I want more space around me and relish quiet. I'm not a live in the center of things type.
Not family oriented as a place to live.
should be for entertainment
want larger lot/privacy
Family - does not seem like a residential area suitable for family (yard, house size, etc).
Can't live in town, need my space.
too much low income housing in the area
I wouldn't live in an urban area
I like more suburban neighborhood to raise my family. If I were younger (single), perhaps.
I prefer more of a traditional neighborhood at this stage in my life (have a young child)
Don't live in the area, probably would prefer an area farther away from downtown with a
family.
Age of our kids, maybe as empty nesters
If I were single or without children, then I would love to live in the neighborhood.
I would like a safer neighborhood with a large yard for kids
location
I like having a yard to take care of and having residential structures around me yet still
living in the core of the community
Presently, there are no homes, condos or homes large enough to accommodate our
family.
crime area is too close
I am too old
If I was single and wanted to live in an apartment I would consider it.
I would definitely consider it - maybe years from now, but I own a house now and am set
for near future.
Not an urban dweller, maybe if I were younger.
like more family-oriented communities
Need more space w/two young kids, would consider loft/condo/townhome down the road
SURVEY RESULTS
Your Age
Demographics of Respondents
66+
56-65
Male
46-55
Sex
36-45
Female
26-35
19-25
Under 18
Do you have Children?

No
44%
Yes
56%
20
40
60
80
100
120
What age are your children?

100
0
0-5
6-10
11-18
18+
West Branch
Waterloo
Walford
Swisher
Shuevville
rural
Robins
Quad cities
Other
oelwein
North Liberty
New Bohemia District
N.E. Iowa
Mount Vernon
Marion
Iowa City / Coralville
Hiawatha
Fairfax
Eastern Iowa
Dubuque
Denver, CO
Davenport
Ames
Anamosa
Atkins
Bertram
Cedar Falls
Cedar Rapids - NE
Cedar Rapids - NW
Cedar Rapids - SE
Cedar Rapids - SW
Center Point
coggon
SURVEY RESULTS
Where do you live today?
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Prepared by
Downtown Professionals Network

Batavia, Illinois
www.downtownpros.com
in association with
Main Street Iowa

Iowa Economic Development Authority
Population
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
2000 Census
1,590
8,953
37,665
2011 Estimate
1,219
7,307
32,166
2016 Projection
1,325
7,646
33,214
+ 8.7%
+ 4.6%
+ 3.3%
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Change: 2011 2016
Households
0.5 Mile
2000 Census
656
3,743
15,223
2011 Estimate
525
3,136
13,107
2016 Projection
574
3,304
13,680
+ 9.3%
+ 5.4%
+ 4.4%
Change: 2011 2016
Median HH Income
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
2011 Estimate
$34,904
$30,027
$40,940
2016 Projection
$35,525
$32,558
$50,553
+ 1.8%
+ 8.4%
+ 23.5%
Change: 2011 2016
Q. Would you live in the District?

Response
Count
Percent
Yes
105
29%
Maybe
109
31%
No
95
40%
Czech Village / New Bohemia District | Consumer Online and Intercept Survey | 2012-13
List three words that describe the District today.

Words/Word Groups
Online Survey
Fun
31
10.0%
Growing
27
8.7%
Historic, Historical, History
20
6.5%
Vibrant
20
6.5%
Art, Artistic, Arts, Artsie, Artsy
19
6.1%
Exciting, Excitement
16
5.2%
Eclectic
14
4.5%
Potential
13
4.2%
Cultural, Culture
12
3.9%
Emergent, Emerging
10
3.2%
New
10
3.2%
Czech Village / New Bohemia District | Consumer Online Survey | 2012
Would you place a high, moderate or low priority on possible

District enhancement efforts to:
Consumers
Restore and preserve the

Districts historic character?
Improve streets, sidewalks, lighting, furnishings, green spaces,
trails, etc., in the District?
Rank
High %
Rank
60%
59%
Businesses
High %
58%
69%
Stage additional festivals and

special events in the District?
43%
72%
Create incentives for new and

expanding businesses in the
District?
60%
59%
Improve and/or create more

housing in the District?
27%
34%
Czech Village / New Bohemia District | Consumer Intercept and Business Surveys | 2013
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Market Study Summary

March 2013
Prepared by
Downtown Professionals Network

28 South Water Street Suite 214
Batavia, Illinois 60510
www.downtownpros.com
In Association With
Main Street Iowa

Market Analysis Services
Times they are a-changing.

The phrase, echoed throughout the decades, personifies the nature
of changes in the economic landscape of traditional downtown and
neighborhood commercial districts. Expanding retail competition,
evolving technologies, and changing lifestyle trends will continue to
affect business opportunities and the ways in which people interact
within traditional commercial district environments.
The key to improving the economic performance of the Czech Village
/ New Bohemia Main Street District in Cedar Rapids, Iowa ultimately
lies in the development and implementation of market-driven
business improvement and marketing strategies that capitalize on
local assets and emerging opportunities.
Cedar Rapids Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street organization
spearheaded the market study process to promote a more in-depth
understanding of local and regional market conditions and trends
impacting the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street Districts
current economic performance and opportunities for the future.
Information and direction gained throughout the market analysis
process provides a sound basis for local decision-making processes
and strategies aimed at enhancing the economic and social qualities
of this Cedar Rapids historic treasure.
The delivery of market analysis technical assistance and services are
facilitated by Main Street Iowa (MSI) as part of a comprehensive
self-help program that provides extensive training and technical
services to participating Iowa communities. Local Czech Village / New
Bohemia Main Street staff, leaders and volunteers played a critical
role in efforts to collect and analyze information that provides a
snapshot of the District today, that anticipates changes in the District
and surrounding area, and that identifies opportunities for
improvements and growth. Key steps in the process included:
The collection and review of background information.
The analysis and summary of trade area demographic, lifestyle

and economic data provided by Main Street Iowa.
The performance of consumer and business surveys, with

special assistance provided by ENACTUS members from Mount
Mercy University.
An extensive amount of information and data was compiled and

analyzed throughout the course of the market analysis process. This
report has been prepared to highlight key information and findings
that could be particularly relevant to the communitys ongoing
downtown enhancement efforts.
For more information contact:
Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District

th
101 16 Avenue SW, Suite A
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404
Telephone: (319) 432-9785
Email: crmainstreet@gmail.com
Website: www.crmainstreet.org
Limitations and Disclaimers

Retail market analyses, their components (such as retail
sales gap analyses) and derivative business development
plans provide important guidance on how a commercial
area should, theoretically, be able to perform and on the
sales levels businesses should be able to achieve.
However, a number of factors affect the actual
performance of businesses and commercial areas,
including the skills of the business operator, level of
business capitalization, the quality of the physical
environment, changes in overall economic conditions,
the effectiveness of business and district marketing
programs, and many other factors. The information in
this document is intended to provide a foundation of
information for making business development decisions,
but it does not and cannot ensure business success.
As is true of all demographic, economic and market
studies, our analysis reliability is limited to the reliability
and quality of the data available. Our research assumes
that all data made available by and procured from
federal, state, county, city, primary and third party
sources is accurate and reliable.
Because market conditions change rapidly and
sometimes without warning, the information and
opinions expressed here represent a snapshot in time
and cannot predict or gauge future changes or results.
Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District | Market Study Summary March 2013
Background and Context

Content was contributed by: The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library; and Mark and Jan Stoffer Hunter.
Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District straddles the banks of the Cedar
River on the citys southeast side. Just south of the citys primary downtown business district, the Main Street District
(one of the first urban neighborhood models in the state) fosters connectivity to shared amenities and attractions while
maintaining its own unique culture and feel.
The Main Street District is made up of two diverse
neighborhoods, Czech Village and New Bohemia,
th
spanning approximately forty blocks bounded by 8
Avenue SE, the former Union Pacific railroad line,
and former Sinclair site on the east side of the river
th
as well as three blocks centered on 16 Avenue SW
st
from 1 Street SW to the river. Cedar Rapids is part
of the greater Iowa Cultural Corridor which
encompasses Linn and Johnson counties as well as
nine adjacent counties. With a population of more
than 126,000 residents, Cedar Rapids is the second
largest city in the state of Iowa.
The Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street
District has a storied past and stands as a shining
example of the perseverance of its residents and
business owners. Carrying on the legacy of early
Czech settlement, the District represents a wide
mix of small businesses; arts, culture and
entertainment venues; and former industrial sites.
Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District
History
Early Settlement Patterns
In 1871, a new company, T.M. Sinclair meatpacking, began operations in Cedar Rapids across the street from the new
Czech social hall in the downtown business district. The new industry was welcomed by city leaders but there were
concerns about "questionable odors" from this particular location so close to the young city's downtown area.
At the encouragement of community leaders, the following year, 1872, Sinclair relocated his slaughterhouse/packing
plant to the south end of Third Street East of the Cedar River. This single action changed the course of Czech settlement
patterns in Cedar Rapids. The new Sinclair plant was very successful and a large amount of new workers were needed
within the first few years. The nearby Bohemian immigrant population suddenly had a good new source of long term
sustainable employment.
Word got out to friends and relatives of the Cedar Rapids Czech community in Europe and waves of new Bohemians
arrived in Cedar Rapids throughout the 1870's, knowing employment was available at the new Sinclair plant. The
previously undeveloped area between the downtown and the Sinclair plant quickly became populated with Czech
immigrant housing.
Further evidence of rapid growth for the new South End neighborhood included the construction of a new iron bridge
across the Cedar River at 14th Avenue east (16th Avenue west) to help facilitate traffic coming and going to the Sinclair
plant from farmlands west of the river. St. Wenceslaus Catholic church was established in 1874 near the packinghouse.
The first brick church edifice was completed in 1882.
Commercial buildings housing Bohemian immigrant businesses began sprouting up on street corners closer to the
packinghouse and away from the earlier established Czech settlement area near downtown Cedar Rapids. The earliest
commercial buildings to appear were at the intersection of 14th Avenue and Third Street SE. These included storefront
"blocks" erected by families such as Petrovitsky and Lesinger in the 1880's.
The 1880's saw the influx of additional job source industries in the new Bohemian neighborhood, the "South End." The
area had excellent railroad access, which made it easier for companies such as Whiting's Foundry, the Star Wagon
Works and the J.G. Cherry Company to locate in this area. The factories tended to locate near the south extension
of Downtown Cedar Rapids' 4th Street railroad corridor. Thus the areas between the tracks and the river rapidly filled
with an eclectic mix of distinctively "neat and frugal" Czech immigrant residences.
As the 1890's approached, the majority of Cedar Rapids Bohemian commercial businesses had located in the South End
neighborhood, creating a "Little Bohemia." Plans were made to build a grand new CSPS Hall at the corner of 11th
Avenue and Third Street SE to replace the 1870 structure in the downtown area. The new structure's cornerstone was
laid on October 30, 1890 with great ceremony. The splendid new CSPS Hall was dedicated in June of 1891 and the
appearance of this grand three story structure helped permanently establish that this was the center of the Cedar
Rapids Czech community.
Between 1900 and 1910, the city of Cedar Rapids designated the area to the north of what is now New Bohemia, as a
wholesale/warehouse/manufacturing district. Almost overnight, entire blocks of the first Czech settlement area of
Cedar Rapids were demolished and replaced by structures such as large scale wholesale/warehouse buildings, a
lumberyard, an ice cream factory, and three major railroad freight houses.
Although the majority of the Czech businesses had moved to the south of this area by 1900, the few remaining had to
scramble for new locations. This included the Sokol Gymnastic Association of Cedar Rapids, originally known as the
Jednota Tyrs Association. The Sokols had initially used the old CSPS building at 5th Avenue & First Street SE and had just
built a new Sokol Turner Hall at 7th Avenue near Third Street SE in 1901. Because of the new railroad freight station
developments, the Sokols were faced with finding a new location in 1908. Interestingly, rather than choose a location
in the South End, a lot was chosen at 417 Third Street SE, closer to downtown and a half block from the Cedar Rapids
passenger train station. The new Sokol gymnasium had a grand opening in January of 1909. Today, it is the only
surviving building standing of Czech heritage in the first and earliest Czech settlement neighborhood of Cedar Rapids.
South of Ninth Avenue SE, the second Czech settlement neighborhood of the city continued to thrive and grow after
1900. In 1901, the very first building in the United States built for a Czech School was opened at 925 Second Street SE.
The Czech School (Matice Skolska) had begun in Cedar Rapids in 1870 and is recognized as the oldest
continuously operated ethnic school in the country. The Czech School was the site of a lecture given by Thomas G.
Masaryk on September 13, 1907. The man who played a great role in the formation of Czechoslovakia in the years to
come was met with great enthusiasm by the Mayor and citizens of Cedar Rapids.
Impressive new building projects were completed in the South End area between 1890 and 1920, particularly along
Third Street and 14th Avenue SE. Substantial commercial storefront buildings continued to appear, including the P.
Matyk Dry Goods store in 1893 across the street from the new CSPS Hall and a series of commercial storefronts at
1119-1129 Third Street SE.
The intersection of Third Street and 12th Avenue became the location of two major improvements. First was in 1908
with the erection of the ZCBJ (Zapadni Cesko-Bratrska Jednota) Hall on the southeast corner and the completion of the
new Iowa State Savings Bank in 1917 at the southwest corner. In addition, three movie theatres showing silent films
were opened in the neighborhood between 1911 and 1915. These included the Ideal Theatre at 215 14th Avenue SE,
the Praha Theatre at 227 14th Avenue SE and the Olympic (later the Strand) at 1124 Third Street SE. The Olympic also
offered small stage performances, adding to the rich cultural choices available in the South End district.
th
Third Czech Settlement Area of Cedar Rapids16 Avenue SW (Czech Village)

Prior to 1900, the core of the Czech business community was almost entirely focused on the east side of the Cedar
River only. The area known today as "Czech Village," centered on 16th avenue SW, was not a primary Czech settlement
neighborhood in the late 19th century in Cedar Rapids. However, 16th Avenue SW was a small commercial district as
early as the late 1880's. The street was a main pass- through for traffic coming from rural areas to the west and going
into the Sinclair packinghouse across the bridge on the east side.
Records show that the earliest residents and business owners on 16th Avenue SW were a "melting pot" mixture of
primarily Italian, Russian and Syrian (Lebanese) immigrants. Some of these non-Czech ethnic names still exist along the
top of a couple of commercial buildings in the Czech Village today. This is not to say there were not any Czech
immigrants living on the west side, but the numbers were more consistent with other ethnic groups.
Several factors led to a sudden shift of the Czech population and business district after 1900, and particularly from
1910-1940. Primary of these was the aforementioned shift in downtown development on the east side beginning in
1900 as the northern, oldest downtown section of Czech settlement areas were removed for a warehouse/freight
station district.
In 1903, a large new industry, the Douglas Starch Works (now Penford Products), began operations on the west bank of
the river. This new source of good steady jobs encouraged many residents of Bohemian descent to consider moving
across the river.
A third contributing factor was the completion of a new, sturdy concrete bridge connecting 14th Avenue east with 16th
avenue west. The new 1910 bridge replaced the old iron span bridge erected in 1875. Also, as late as 1905, much of the
west side of Cedar Rapids south and west of 16th Avenue was largely undeveloped and was an attractive alternative to
the more established (and noisier) neighborhoods on the east side. Better access to automobiles meant that residents
could live a little farther from the business districts of the city.
As the west side residential area rapidly expanded, so did public and social amenities such as the opening of new
schools such as Hayes Elementary and Wilson School, and churches such as St. Ludmila's Catholic built new structures
by 1930.
All of these factors made 16th Avenue SW from the west approach of the bridge and extending two and a half blocks to
the west very attractive and lucrative to build a more formalized retail and service district that could feature shops and
businesses owned and operated by Czech speaking families.
As early as 1906, the "Industrial Club of 16th Avenue West" was established. Later known as the 16th Avenue
Commercial Club, the organization functioned as a chamber of commerce to promote and support the efforts of Czech
businesses. These efforts paid off, and within a few years, 16th Avenue SW was established as a major shopping district
for Cedar Rapids, second only to the downtown area between 1920 and 1960.
The effect of 16th Avenue SW on the older "South End" district on the east side was a reduction in some key retail
businesses. However, the primary social centers of the Czech community, such as CSPS and ZCBJ, continued on the east
side well into the mid-20th century and both neighborhoods flourished as established Czech centers of activity.
Neighborhoods Established
In 1973, the Czech Heritage Foundation, in the interests of preserving Cedar Rapids Czech traditions and history, began
forming the concept of 16th Avenue SW as a "Czech Village" to appeal to the tourist trade. In October of 1975, much of
the third settlement area was officially named Czech Village.
South End, the second Czech settlement area for Cedar Rapids, experienced the effects of the closing of the old Sinclair
packinghouse site in 1990. But since 2000, there have been increasing efforts to reconnect with this areas historic past
and focus on historic preservation. This area has been named "New Bohemia."
Flood of 2008
The Great Flood of June 2008 devastated both the
Czech Village and New Bohemia areas with
floodwaters rising more than eight feet high in most
buildings. Virtually all of the businesses and
residential structures in the District were heavily
damaged. Many property owners sold and left the
area, while others stayed put and began the
arduous task of rehabilitation.
Through the dedication and collaborative efforts of
several leaders in the community, many key
businesses and organizations in the Main Street
District were among the first to reopen among the
flood affected throughout Cedar Rapids. Despite
the level of destruction experienced, members of
the community have expressed their commitment
to not just rebuild, but to preserve the unique
character and historic assets of the area.
Czech Village/New Bohemia Main Street District
Established
The Czech Village / New Bohemia (CV/NB) Main
Street District was formed in May of 2009 to
breathe economic life into a historic area of Cedar
Rapids. Established by Czech immigrants, the Main
Street District had suffered economic decline for
many years and was nearly destroyed by record
flooding in 2008. Despite these hardships,
courageous business owners and residents began
the task of rebuilding.
The proven success of the Main Street model as an
incremental process for economic development and
historic preservation has shown to be effective in
helping to assist business and property owners to
rebuild post-flood. Numerous grant opportunities
have been facilitated by the CV/NB Main Street
program including a $75,000 faade grant, Main
Street Iowa Challenge grants, and I-Jobs funding.
Optimism is evident throughout the Main Street
District. Construction is prevalent and new
investments are announced regularly. The creative
cultural community has embraced the District
bringing new and return visitors who spread the
word about the exciting improvements. Thorough
consistent application of Main Streets Four Point
Approach, Czech Village/New Bohemia will
continue to be Cedar Rapids desired location to live,
work, and play.
District Attractions
Designated as an Iowa Cultural District, the Czech Village /
New Bohemia Main Street District is an area rich in history,
alive with music, and bustling with shops old and new.
Today one will find a mixture of shops, businesses, and
people that represent the ethnic history of the area.
The district has a wide variety of food to satisfy ones
palette. Restaurants offer authentic Czech cuisine, seafood,
classic burgers & fries, soup & sandwiches, and fresh
gourmet creations. Or one can let their nose be their guide
and check out the food vendors inside the NewBo City
Market representing a wide range of ethnic cuisines.
Events are a great time to visit the district. Several events
both with deep tradition as well as new additions are held
annually including: NewBo Arts Fest, EcoFest, Old Prague
Christmas Market, Very Cherry Holiday, Houby Days, St.
Josephs Parade, 2x2xU, and Czech Fall Festival. Annual
festivals bring thousands of visitors to the district each year.
Many world-class cultural attractions including the National
Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, African American
Museum of Iowa, and Legion Arts provide history, culture,
performing & fine arts; drawing visitors from all over the
world. St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, founded in 1874,
continues to serve the community and carry on the Czech
heritage. Live music is featured multiple days a week at
many bars, restaurants, and outdoor venues.
The Bohemian spirit is very much integrated into the
neighborhood with many community driven projects
occurring on a grass-roots level. Over twenty-five artist
studios showcase a variety of crafts including woodworking,
painting, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and many more.
Independent retailers offer a wide selection of goods
including home furnishings, gifts & collectibles, hobby
stores, antiques, and vintage finds.
The Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District
maintains the urban, industrial grit and preserves the
historic architecture while introducing new businesses to
meet the needs and interests of modern consumers.
Interspersed with the various commercial properties are
former immigrant houses allowing for residents to live in
close proximity to necessary shopping and services. In
addition, former large-scale industrial facilities have been
thoughtfully
converted
into
attractive
loft-style
condominiums, like Bottleworks and Water Tower Place, or
artist studios, like the Cherry Building. Many upper-story
housing opportunities are also available throughout the
district.
Historic District, Architecture and Aesthetics

The district was listed to the National Register of Historic
Places in 2002 as the Bohemian Commercial Historic District
under criteria A and C for architecture, commerce, and
ethnic heritage. An expansion of the historic district was
made in 2010 to include the Czech Village.
Historic architecture dates from 1880 to 1952 and ranges in
style including Romanesque, Italianate, and Classical Revival
among others. Buildings are typically two to three stories
high and constructed in wood or brick. Several community
buildings such as banks, social halls, and factories were
much larger in scale and constructed in brick or limestone
with architectural detailing.
Early residential structures are mainly comprised of modest
workers cottages with later construction including twostory bungalows and gable fronted wood-framed structures.
Streetscape & Public Improvements
th
Streetscape enhancements were completed on 16 Avenue

SW, in the Czech Village neighborhood, in 2006. With much
th
of the improvements surviving the flooding in 2008, 16
Avenue serves as the centerpiece of the neighborhood
featuring attractive, pedestrian-friendly, sidewalks lined
with trees and flowers in large-scale concrete planters,
benches, banners, convenient parking, and prominent brick
gateway pillars.
rd
Work on the 3 Street SE reconstruction and streetscape

improvements project, in the New Bohemia neighborhood,
began in 2005. In the past 20 years, the area had become
blighted with many of the fronting buildings along the street
being underutilized or empty. At the time work on the
project started, the area did have a thriving arts and
entertainment scene. Utilizing community input through a
series of design charrettes, a preliminary design was
developed. Fortunately, these designs had not yet been
implemented by 2008 when the flooding occurred.
When the flood waters receded, the task of clean up and
reconstruction began immediately. The City felt that the
rd
redevelopment of 3 Street SE could serve as the catalyst to
spur development throughout the southeast side of Cedar
rd
Rapids, making the 3 Street SE Project a central part of the
Citys post-flood redevelopment activities.
Recognizing the enormous economic impact that the Project
had on the owners of flooded properties, the City developed
an innovative series of agreements. This was done to
reward property owners, who had taken the initiative to
rebuild on their own, or to incentivize property owners who
had not yet taken the steps to redevelop their properties, by
forgiving all or a part of their assessment amount.
Streetscape elements include trees, benches, planters,

plaques recognizing historic buildings that had been
demolished, informational kiosks, brick inlays in the
th
th
intersection of 10 Avenue SE and 12 Avenue SE, bike
racks, streetlights, preservation of historic advertising tiles,
development of spaces for the presentation of 2D and 3D
art, and bollards to allow the street to be closed easily for
street festivals.
Parks and Recreation
The Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District
features three public parks near the Cedar River (Sokol,
Masaryk, and Osborn), the Kosek bandstand featuring live
music throughout the summer, and the recent addition of
NewBo Beach sand volleyball and recreation area. The
Cedar River Nature Trail passes through the district
connecting downtown Cedar Rapids to the nearby town of
Ely.
Near-Side Neighbors
The Main Street District is surrounded by several well
established residential neighborhoods including Oakhill
Jackson, Wilson and Taylor. The District is also supported
by nearby schools, churches, and community organizations,
many with Czech heritage.
Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District Market Snapshot

Study Area Geographies
The profile assembled for the Czech Village / New
Bohemia District markets is based upon information
contained in a series of ESRI reports generated for a
0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mile radius originating from the center
of the Czech Village / New Bohemia District.
The half-mile radius profiles a captive resident

and convenience-oriented market for the Czech
Village/New Bohemia District. The population
residing in the half-mile area would also be more
likely access the district on foot, bicycle and via
other alternative modes of transportation.
Demographic and psychographic data could be
particularly useful for assessing performance and
expansion opportunities for convenience and
clientele-oriented businesses and uses, and for
analyzing and profiling the composition of the
current and potential Czech Village/New Bohemia
District housing market.
The one-mile and two-mile radius likely depicts
primary consumer markets for the Czech Village /
New Bohemia District. Data and information for
the 1- and 2-mile radii could be helpful for
comparing and contrasting the traits and
characteristics of the nearby population with that
in the larger Cedar Rapids community. The
consumer profile may also be indicative of the
nearby comparison market for Czech
Village/New Bohemia area service, retail and
eating & drinking uses.
Consumers in the Cedar Rapids regional market,
all things being equal, may be more naturally
inclined to frequent business districts and
commercial areas in other parts of the community
based on convenience, variety and a host of other
considerations. Opportunities for the Czech
Village/New Bohemia District to capture
consumers from the broader region, and to
increase its retail market share, will most likely
revolve around retail and service anchors;
specialty retail and destination-oriented eating &
drinking places; recreational attractions and
venues; and events.
Czech Village/New Bohemia District Markets
Fast Facts
Population
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
2000 Census
1,590
8,953
37,665
2011 Estimate
1,219
7,307
32,166
2016 Projection
1,325
7,646
33,214
+ 8.7%
+ 4.6%
+ 3.3%
Change: 2011 2016

Households
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
2000 Census
656
3,743
15,223
2011 Estimate
525
3,136
13,107
2016 Projection
574
3,304
13,680
+ 9.3%
+ 5.4%
+ 4.4%
Change: 2011 2016

Median HH Income
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
2011 Estimate
$34,904
$30,027
$40,940
2016 Projection
$35,525
$32,558
$50,553
+ 1.8%
+ 8.4%
+ 23.5%
Change: 2011 2016

Source: ESRI 2012
Reports generated and data used to examine the Czech Village / New Bohemia District markets include:
ESRI Census 2010 Summary Profile
Data from the Census 2010 and Census 2000 enables analysts to perform time-series studies, evaluate population
changes, and assess the value of current sites and services.
ESRI Demographics and Income Profile - 2011
Built on 2010 counts and in 2010 geography, ESRIs updated demographics database provides current year
estimates and 5-year projections for select demographic and income categories.
ESRI Retail Goods and Services Expenditures
Built on ESRIs 2011 Consumer Spending database, shows the amount that households spend in select products and
services categories compared to national figures.
ESRI Tapestry Segmentation Area Profile
Tapestry classifies U.S. residential neighborhoods into 65 unique market segments based on socioeconomic and
demographic characteristics.
ESRI Retail MarketPlace Profile
Retail MarketPlace data provides a measure of retail activity by trade area and compares retail sales to consumer
spending by NAICS industry classification.
10
Demographic Snapshot
The demographic snapshot compiled for the Czech Village/New Bohemia District markets benchmarks and tracks
changes in the marketplace. Analysis and comparison of data for the three study area radii and the Cedar Rapids city
limits reveals some interesting characteristics and trends.
Population and Households

The population in the study area radii decreased by about -15% to -26% from 2000 to 2010, while the citys population
increased by a rate of 3.7% during the same ten-year period. The largest 2000 to 2010 percentage decline in the study
area rings occurred within the one-half mile radius and was estimated at -25.7%. Five-year 2011 2016 projections
anticipate a reversal of trends in the study areas with population percentage gains estimated at about 3% to 9% and
with the largest percentage gain expected to occur in the one-half mile radius (8.7%). The citys population is
anticipated to increase by 3.7% through 2016.
Like population, the number of households in the study area rings declined by about -15% to -23% from 2000 to 2010,
with the largest percentage loss occurring again in the half-mile radius (-22.6%). Five-year 2011 2016 projections
anticipate the number of households will increase by about 4% to 9% in the study area rings, and by about 4% in the
city limits, from 2011 to 2016.
Consistent with the Graying of America phenomenon, median age continues to increase at all study area geography
levels and for the citys population. The 2011 median age estimated for the population in the study areas and the city is
lower by up to two years and more than the 38.1 median age estimated for the Iowa population. Median age is
expected to increase by about one-half to one year in the study areas and the city from 2011 to 2016.
Czech Village/New Bohemia District Study Areas

0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Cedar Rapids
City Limits
Population
2000 Census
1,590
8,953
37,665
121,840
2010 Census
1,182
7,217
32,007
126,326
- 25.7%
- 19.4%
- 15.0%
+ 3.7%
2011 Estimate
1,219
7,307
32,166
127,241
2016 Projection
1,325
7,646
33,214
131,909
+ 8.7%
+ 4.6%
+ 3.3%
+ 3.7%
2000 Census
656
3,743
15,223
50,233
2010 Census
508
3,089
13,001
53,236
- 22.6%
- 17.5%
- 14.7%
+ 6.0%
2011 Estimate
525
3,136
13,107
53,657
2016 Projection
574
3,304
13,680
55,967
+ 9.3%
+ 5.4%
+ 4.4%
+ 4.3%
2010 Census
36.4
35.7
34.1
35.3
2011 Estimate
36.3
35.8
34.2
35.8
2016 Projection
36.8
36.4
34.6
36.3
Change: 2000 - 2010
Change: 2011 - 2016

Households
Change: 2000 - 2010
Change: 2011 - 2016

Median Age
Source: ESRI Compiled from Census 2010 Summary Profile; and Demographic and Income Profile (2011 Data) Report.
11
Population by Race & Ethnicity

The population in study area radii is largely composed of White Alone residents with concentrations in 2011 estimated
at about 83% to 87% for the various study area radii, as compared to the 88% figure reported for the citys population.
Five-year 2011 2016 projections anticipate small change in the composition of the study areas population by race,
with the percentage of White Alone residents decreasing by about -1% to -2% and small gains generally distributed
among the Black Alone and Two or More Races groups.
Persons of Hispanic origin (considered an ethnicity, not a race) represented an estimated 3.5% to 4.0% of the 2011
population residing in the study area rings. The percentage of the population with Hispanic origin is expected to
increase by about 1% in the study area radii and the city limits through 2016.
Race and Ethnicity

0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Cedar Rapids
City Limits
2011
2016
2011
2016
2011
2016
2011
2016
White Alone
87.0%
85.6%
83.0%
81.3%
83.7%
81.8%
88.2%
86.8%
Black Alone
6.7%
7.4%
10.3%
11.3%
9.4%
10.5%
5.5%
6.1%
American Indian Alone
0.2%
0.2%
0.3%
0.3%
0.4%
0.4%
0.3%
0.3%
Asian Alone
0.6%
0.6%
0.9%
1.0%
1.1%
1.1%
2.1%
2.2%
Pacific Islander Alone
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.1%
0.1%
0.1%
0.1%
Some Other Race Alone
0.7%
0.8%
1.0%
1.1%
1.1%
1.3%
0.9%
1.2%
Two or More Races
4.8%
5.4%
4.5%
5.0%
4.3%
4.8%
2.9%
3.2%
Hispanic Origin (Any Race)
3.5%
4.4%
3.7%
4.6%
4.0%
5.1%
3.4%
4.3%
Housing Units
The number of housing units in all study area rings decreased by an estimated 9.3% to 13.6% across the various
geographies from 2000 to 2010, with the largest decline reported for the half-mile radius (-13.6%). The growth rate of
8.8% reported for housing units within the city limits slightly outpaced the 8.4% rate of increase reported for Iowa from
2000 to 2010.

0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Cedar Rapids
City Limits
Housing Units
2000 Census
733
3,987
16,136
52,606
2010 Census
633
3,523
14,630
57,217
- 13.6%
- 11.6%
- 9.3%
+8.8%
Change: 2000 - 2010
Source: ESRI Compiled from Census 2010 Summary Profile; and Demographic and Income Profile (2011 Data) Report
12
Housing Units by Occupancy

The percentage of renter-occupied housing units in the study area radii ranges from about 39% to 47% in 2010, with
the largest concentration reported for the one-mile radius (47.2%). By comparison, the percentage of renter-occupied
housing in 2010 was estimated at 31.8% in the city limits and 27.9% in Iowa.
Housing unit vacancy rates in 2010 for the study area rings were comparatively high, ranging from 11.1% to 16.4% as
compared to estimates of 7.0% and 8.6% posted for the city limits and Iowa, respectively, in 2010.

0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Cedar Rapids
City Limits
Housing Units by Occupancy 2010

Occupied Housing Units
Owner Occupied Units
Average Household Size
Renter Occupied Units
Average Household Size
Vacant Units
Vacancy Rate
508
3,089
13,001
53,236
60.2%
52.8%
61.2%
68.2%
2.42
2.40
2.40
2.43
39.8%
47.2%
38.8%
31.8%
2.08
1.95
2.12
2.04
100
425
1,628
3,981
16.4%
12.1%
11.1%
7.0%
Median and Average Household Income

Median and average household income estimates for 2011 show incomes for households immediately within and
surrounding the district are significantly lower than figures reported for all households within the Cedar Rapids city
limits. For example, 2011 median household income for households in the one-mile radius is estimated at $30,027 as
compared to the $52,650 estimate for households in the city limits. Median household income is expected to grow at a
five-year rate ranging from 1.8% to 23.5% in the study area rings through 2016, and average household income is
forecast to increase by 12% to 15% during the same five-year period.

0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Cedar Rapids
City Limits
Median Household Income

2011 Estimate
$34,904
$30,027
$40,940
$52,650
2016 Projection
$35,525
$32,558
$50,553
$62,559
+ 1.8%
+ 8.4%
+ 23.5%
+ 18.8%
2011 Estimate
$43,255
$39,947
$52,776
$65,797
2016 Projection
$48,436
$44,765
$60,678
$75,849
+ 12.0%
+ 12.1%
+ 15.0%
+ 15.3%
Change: 2011-2016
Average Household Income
Change: 2011-2016
13
Consumer Spending
The ESRI Retail Goods and Services Expenditures report, built on ESRIs 2011 Consumer Spending database, shows the
amount that households spend in select product and service categories and compares amounts to national figures. The
comparison to national household spending amounts is reported as an index where 100 equals the national average.
Overall, the data generally shows spending amounts, indices and patterns which mirror study area household income
patterns and, for most categories, are considerably less than national average consumer household expenditures.
Consumer Spending
ESRI Retail Goods & Services Expenditures
Apparel and Services
0.5 Mile
Index
1.0 Mile
Avg. Spent
Index
2.0 Miles
Avg. Spent
Index
Avg. Spent
45
$1,046.71
42
$978.33
56
$1,289.58
Men's
42
$188.69
39
$174.69
52
$231.72
Women's
41
$328.09
38
$303.52
50
$399.67
Children's
48
$186.02
44
$172.07
59
$229.63
Footwear
32
$127.77
30
$120.71
39
$158.32
Watches & Jewelry
62
$117.03
58
$108.33
77
$145.59
109
$99.11
109
$99.02
137
$124.66
Computers & Hardware for Home Use
65
$119.84
59
$110.33
79
$147.24
Software & Accessories for Home Use
64
$17.71
58
$16.05
78
$21.66
65
$2,026.41
59
$1,855.52
79
$2,469.02
63
$377.71
56
$333.12
76
$458.08
Membership Fees for Clubs (2)
65
$102.62
57
$90.25
77
$122.74
Fees for Participant Sports, excl. Trips
64
$65.73
56
$57.88
77
$79.25
Admission to Movie/Theatre/Opera
63
$92.44
57
$84.41
78
$114.01
Admission to Sporting Events, ex. Trips
66
$38.35
57
$33.08
79
$45.69
Fees for Recreational Lessons
59
$78.09
51
$67.01
72
$95.80
Dating Services
64
$0.48
64
$0.48
80
$0.60
66
$796.85
62
$748.49
81
$970.25
Community Antenna or Cable TV
68
$475.75
65
$455.39
83
$577.04
Televisions
63
$118.26
57
$107.73
78
$145.56
VCRs, Video Cameras, DVD Players
66
$12.95
60
$11.90
80
$15.78
Video Cassettes and DVDs
66
$33.45
62
$31.48
81
$41.44
Video/Computer Game Hard/Software
71
$38.45
62
$33.69
84
$45.46
Satellite Dishes
55
$0.68
51
$0.62
71
$0.87
Rental of Video Cassettes and DVDs
67
$26.89
61
$24.43
82
$32.67
Apparel Products and Services (1)

Computer
Entertainment & Recreation

Fees and Admissions
TV/Video/Audio
Source: ESRI Retail Goods and Services Expenditures, 2011. ESRI forecasts for 2010 and 2015; Consumer Spending data are derived from the 2006
and 2007 Consumer Expenditure Surveys, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data Note: The Spending Potential Index (SPI) is household-based, and represents the amount spent for a product or service relative to a national
average of 100. Detail may not sum to totals due to rounding. See full ESRI reports for category descriptions and notes.
Source:
14
Consumer Spending
0.5 Mile
Index
1.0 Mile
Avg. Spent
Index
2.0 Miles
Avg. Spent
Index
Avg. Spent
Streaming/Downloaded Video
65
$0.88
60
$0.81
79
$1.07
Audio (3)
60
$85.43
55
$78.35
74
$105.00
Rental/Repair-TV/Radio/Sound Equip
56
$4.12
56
$4.10
73
$5.36
Pets
78
$325.09
72
$298.63
95
$397.05
Toys and Games (4)
66
$92.88
60
$84.96
80
$113.30
Recreational Vehicles and Fees (5)
51
$160.36
46
$145.38
65
$203.25
Sports/Recreation/Exercise Equipt (6)
49
$86.32
44
$77.36
60
$105.71
Photo Equipment and Supplies (7)
66
$65.92
58
$58.04
78
$78.68
Reading (8)
69
$102.83
63
$93.92
81
$121.45
Catered Affairs (9)
77
$18.45
65
$15.62
89
$21.26
66
$4,903.44
62
$4,606.19
80
$5,983.51
Food at Home
66
$2,862.89
62
$2,709.57
80
$3,484.76
Bakery and Cereal Products
67
$387.03
63
$364.40
81
$467.54
Meats, Poultry, Fish, and Eggs
66
$658.39
63
$630.13
80
$807.42
Dairy Products
66
$320.58
62
$301.24
80
$387.67
Fruits and Vegetables
65
$491.10
62
$468.08
79
$602.04
Snacks and Other Food at Home (10)
67
$1,005.79
63
$945.72
81
$1,220.09
Food Away from Home
65
$2,040.56
61
$1,896.62
80
$2,498.75
Alcoholic Beverages
69
$382.82
63
$350.59
83
$461.28
Nonalcoholic Beverages at Home
66
$282.02
63
$266.99
81
$343.02
Investments
62
$1,042.51
55
$926.15
73
$1,232.91
Vehicle Loans
64
$3,028.04
58
$2,779.25
78
$3,728.72
Nonprescription Drugs
65
$65.43
62
$62.26
79
$78.92
Prescription Drugs
72
$346.96
68
$327.60
84
$404.25
Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses
69
$51.81
62
$45.88
81
$60.40
Mortgage Payment and Basics (11)
61
$5,505.07
52
$4,698.41
74
$6,683.51
Maintenance and Remodeling Services
60
$1,151.92
52
$1,006.85
73
$1,411.02
Maintenance/Remodeling Materials (12)
60
$214.56
51
$184.71
72
$259.52
Utilities, Fuel, and Public Services
68
$2,985.78
64
$2,805.98
82
$3,605.02
Food
Financial
Health
Home
15
Consumer Spending
0.5 Mile
Index
1.0 Mile
Avg. Spent
Index
2.0 Miles
Avg. Spent
Index
Avg. Spent
Household Furnishings and Equipment

Household Textiles (13)
63
$81.22
58
$74.49
77
$98.99
Furniture
61
$356.57
56
$327.87
76
$442.65
Floor Coverings
68
$49.79
61
$44.14
81
$58.93
Major Appliances (14)
62
$183.74
57
$167.80
76
$224.57
Housewares (15)
56
$46.42
52
$43.22
69
$57.39
Small Appliances
69
$21.83
63
$20.06
81
$25.87
Luggage
64
$5.73
56
$5.00
76
$6.85
Telephones and Accessories
44
$18.27
41
$17.04
55
$22.51
Child Care
61
$272.22
54
$241.28
76
$339.95
Lawn and Garden (16)
62
$250.33
55
$224.53
75
$303.27
Moving/Storage/Freight Express
53
$31.11
54
$31.57
70
$41.32
66
$451.62
62
$420.32
80
$545.12
Owners and Renters Insurance
65
$292.95
58
$260.38
78
$350.34
Vehicle Insurance
65
$737.48
61
$689.03
80
$902.48
Life/Other Insurance
68
$274.68
60
$243.35
80
$322.35
Health Insurance
71
$1,325.78
66
$1,232.07
83
$1,552.11
Personal Care Products (18)
64
$249.05
60
$233.49
79
$306.16
School Books and Supplies (19)
74
$76.47
69
$70.89
90
$92.42
Smoking Products
74
$308.14
72
$299.46
89
$366.62
Vehicle Purchases (Net Outlay) (20)
63
$2,686.48
58
$2,470.82
78
$3,311.77
Gasoline and Motor Oil
66
$1,846.42
62
$1,719.87
81
$2,248.00
Vehicle Maintenance and Repairs
64
$586.98
60
$546.45
79
$720.09
Airline Fares
60
$264.90
54
$239.04
74
$329.10
Lodging on Trips
61
$259.53
54
$229.94
75
$315.39
Auto/Truck/Van Rental on Trips
60
$21.46
53
$19.03
74
$26.47
Food and Drink on Trips
62
$259.73
55
$233.77
75
$317.70
Household Operations
Housekeeping Supplies (17)

Insurance
Transportation
Travel
Source:
16
Consumer Spending
ESRI Retail Goods & Services Expenditures Report | Category Notes
(1) Apparel Products and Services includes material for making clothes, sewing patterns and notions, shoe repair and other shoe
services, apparel laundry and dry cleaning, alteration, repair and tailoring of apparel, clothing rental and storage, and watch and jewelry
repair.
(2) Membership Fees for Clubs includes membership fees for social, recreational, and civic clubs.
(3) Audio includes satellite radio service, sound components and systems, digital audio players, records, CDs, audio tapes,
streaming/downloaded audio, tape recorders, radios, musical instruments and accessories, and rental and repair of musical instruments.
(4) Toys and Games includes toys, games, arts and crafts, tricycles, playground equipment, arcade games, and online entertainment
and games.
(5) Recreational Vehicles & Fees includes docking and landing fees for boats and planes, purchase and rental of RVs or boats, and
camp fees.
(6) Sports/Recreation/Exercise Equipment includes exercise equipment and gear, game tables, bicycles, camping equipment, hunting
and fishing equipment, winter sports equipment, water sports equipment, other sports equipment, and rental/repair of
sports/recreation/exercise equipment.
(7) Photo Equipment and Supplies includes film, film processing, photographic equipment, rental and repair of photo equipment, and
photographer fees.
(8) Reading includes magazine and newspaper subscriptions, single copies of magazines and newspapers, and books.
(9) Catered Affairs includes expenses associated with live entertainment and rental of party supplies.
(10) Snacks and Other Food at Home includes candy, chewing gum, sugar, artificial sweeteners, jam, jelly, preserves, margarine, fat,
oil, salad dressing, nondairy cream and milk, peanut butter, frozen prepared food, potato chips, nuts, salt, spices, seasonings, olives,
pickles, relishes, sauces, gravy, other condiments, soup, prepared salad, prepared dessert, baby food, miscellaneous prepared food, and
nonalcoholic beverages.
(11) Mortgage Payment and Basics includes mortgage interest, mortgage principal, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and
ground rent.
(12) Maintenance and Remodeling Materials includes supplies/tools/equipment for painting and wallpapering, plumbing supplies and
equipment, electrical/heating/AC supplies, materials for hard surface flooring, materials for roofing/gutters, materials for
plaster/panel/siding, materials for patio/fence/brick work, landscaping materials, and insulation materials for owned homes.
(13) Household Textiles includes bathroom linens, bedroom linens, kitchen linens, dining room linens, other linens, curtains, draperies,
slipcovers, decorative pillows, and materials for slipcovers and curtains.
(14) Major Appliances includes dishwashers, disposals, refrigerators, freezers, washers, dryers, stoves, ovens, microwaves, window air
conditioners, electric floor cleaning equipment, sewing machines, and miscellaneous appliances.
(15) Housewares includes plastic dinnerware, china, flatware, glassware, serving pieces, nonelectric cookware, and tableware.
(16) Lawn and Garden includes lawn and garden supplies, equipment and care service, indoor plants, fresh flowers, and repair/rental of
lawn and garden equipment.
(17) Housekeeping Supplies includes soaps and laundry detergents, cleaning products, toilet tissue, paper towels, napkins,
paper/plastic/foil products, stationery, giftwrap supplies, postage, and delivery services.
(18) Personal Care Products includes hair care products, nonelectric articles for hair, wigs, hairpieces, oral hygiene products, shaving
needs, perfume, cosmetics, skincare, bath products, nail products, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, and personal care appliances.
(19) School Books and Supplies includes school books and supplies for college, elementary school, high school, and preschool.
(20) Vehicle Purchases (Net Outlay) includes net outlay for new and used cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles, and motor scooters.
17
Lifestyle Profile
The ESRI Community Tapestry segmentation system classifies U.S. neighborhoods by 65 market segments using proven
methodology introduced more than 30 years ago by the ACORN segmentation system. Segmentation and
geodemographic systems are stable and reliable because the characteristics that define a neighborhood change slowly.
The stability of a neighborhood comes from its fixed features: location, housing, transportation, schools, places of
worship, and employment. Self-organization and self-perpetuation also figure into the stability of a neighborhood,
patterns which we refer to as keeping up with the Joneses.
U.S. consumer markets are different and diverse. Capturing the essence of each market to characterize those
differences requires sorting the most accurate and powerful data available using a wide array of attributes. Each
neighborhood is analyzed and sorted by more than 60 attributes including income, source of income, employment,
home value, housing type, occupation, education, household composition, age, and other key determinants of
consumer behavior. To capture the subtlety and vibrancy of the U.S. marketplace, data sources include Census 2000,
proprietary ESRI BIS demographic updates, the Acxiom InfoBase consumer database, the Mediamark Research Inc.
national consumer survey, and other sources.
Comparative View of Study Area Tapestry Household Segments
The following table shows and compares concentrations of ESRI Tapestry household segments found within a 0.5, 1.0
and 2.0 mile radius of the Czech Village/New Bohemia Main Street Districts core. The data shows the changing lifestyle
composition of the various study areas, and how the composition becomes more diversified as one moves outward
from the Czech Village/New Bohemia Main Street Districts core. For example, while the half-mile radius is dominated
by the Rustbelt Traditions Tapestry segment (77% of all 0.5 mile radius households), the Great Expectations segment is
the most prevalent segment in the 2.0-mile radius, representing 20.9% of the areas households.
0.5 Mile
Households
Tapestry Code Segment
Count
Pct.
1.0 Mile
Rank
Count
Pct.
2.0 Miles
Rank
Count
Pct.
Rank
32. Rustbelt Traditions
404
77.0%
829
26.4%
1,949
14.9%
65. Social Security Set
58
11.1%
426
13.6%
426
3.3%
11
57. Simple Living
48
9.2%
699
22.3%
699
5.3%
62. Modest Income Homes
14
2.7%
353
11.3%
353
2.7%
13
29. Rustbelt Retirees
0.0%
--
355
11.3%
1,902
14.5%
48. Great Expectations
0.0%
--
350
11.2%
2,735
20.9%
53. Home Town
0.0%
--
89
2.8%
774
5.9%
19. Milk and Cookies
0.0%
--
0.0%
--
755
5.8%
524
100.0%
3,101
98.9%
9,593
73.3%
Count/Percent of Area
Descriptions for the eight prevalent Tapestry segments found within the study areas follow. Information on ESRI
Tapestry methodology and applications, along with descriptions for Tapestrys 65 segments, are contained in the ESRI
Community Tapestry Handbook available for download at http://www.esri.com/library/brochures/pdfs/communitytapestry-handbook.pdf.
18
Snapshot Descriptions of Prevalent Czech Village/New Bohemia District Tapestry Segments

Segment 32 Rustbelt Traditions
Study Area Households : Count Pct. (Rank)
0.5 Mile
404 77.0% (1)
1.0 Mile
829 26.4% (1)
2.0 Miles
1,949 14.9% (2)
Demographic
These neighborhoods are primarily a mix of married-couple families, single parents, and singles who live alone. With a
population of 8.4 million, this segment is one of Tapestry Segmentations largest. The median age is 36.7 years, just
below the US median. There is little diversity in these communities.
Socioeconomic
The median household income is $51,378, slightly below that of the US median. Half of the employed residents work
in white-collar jobs. For years, these residents sustained the manufacturing industry that drove local economies. Now,
the service industry predominates, followed by manufacturing and retail trade. The median net worth is $82,469.
Their education attainment is improving; more than 84 percent of residents aged 25 years and older have graduated
from high school, 15 percent hold a bachelors or graduate degree, and 44 percent have attended college.
Residential
The backbone of older industrial cities in the Great Lakes border states, residents of these neighborhoods live in
modest, single-family homes. Home ownership is 72 percent. The relatively low median home value of $94,696 is
because nearly two-thirds of the housing was built before 1960.
Preferences
These residents stick close to home; for years, theyve lived, worked, shopped, and played in the same area. Not
tempted by fads, they stick to familiar products and services. They drive domestic cars. They will spend money on
their families, yard maintenance, and home improvements. They will hire contractors for special projects such as the
installation of roofing, carpet, and flooring.
These financially conservative residents prefer to bank at a credit union and have personal savings. They might carry a
personal loan and hold low-value life and homeowners insurance policies. Theyre frugal and shop for bargains at
Sams Club, JCPenney, and Kmart. They go online weekly to play games and shop.
They go bowling, fishing, and hunting and attend car races, country music shows, and ice hockey games. Theyre big
TV fans; they watch sitcoms and sports events. They also subscribe to cable and watch it regularly. Favorite channels
are truTV, the Game Show Network, and the Disney Channel.
Demographic Traits
Household Income:
Median Age:
Family/Household Type:
Housing Style:
Employment Levels:
Education Levels:
Ethnic Diversity:
Lifestyle Traits
Middle
36.7
Mixed
Single Family
Skilled/Professional/Management/Service
High School Grad; Some College
White
1. Buy childrens and baby products

2. Use credit Union
3. Do painting, drawing
4. Watch cable TV
5. Own/Lease domestic vehicle
19
Segment 65 Social Security Set

0.5 Mile
58 11.1% (2)
1.0 Mile
426 13.6% (3)
2.0 Miles
426 3.3% (11)
Demographic
Four in ten householders are aged 65 years or older; the median age is 46.4 years. Most of them live alone.
Somewhat ethnically diverse, Social Security Set neighborhoods are a blend of different racial groups; however, half
of the residents are white and one-third are black and 18 percent are Hispanic.
Socioeconomic
Although Social Security Set residents live on very low fixed incomes, they have accumulated some wealth they can
tap into now that theyre retired. Their median household income is $16,805; their median net worth is $10,814.
Unemployment is high among the younger residents who are still part of the labor force. Eight percent of
households rely on public assistance; 16 percent receive Supplemental Security Income. The service industry
provides more than half of the jobs held by these employed residents. Overall, more than two-thirds of the residents
graduated from high school. Thirty-seven percent attended college; 16 percent hold a bachelors or graduate
degree.
Residential
Located in large US cities, these communities are dispersed among business districts and around city parks. Most
Social Security Set residents rent apartments in low-rent, high-rise buildings; a few elderly residents opt to live in
congregate housing. Owner-occupied houses in these neighborhoods have a median value of $111,801. Because
more than half of these households do not own a vehicle, many residents rely on easily accessible public
transportation.
Preferences
Limited resources somewhat restrict the activities and purchases of residents in Social Security Set neighborhoods.
They shop at discount stores but prefer grocery stores close to home. Many depend on Medicare or Medicaid to pay
their health care costs. They bank in person and pay cash when they shop. Many purchase renters insurance. Most
households subscribe to cable television; residents enjoy their daytime and prime time TV. They watch game shows,
a variety of sports, and entertainment news shows. This high viewership provides an easy way to reach these
residents. Avid newspaper readers, many will read two or more to stay current on sports and the news.
Demographic Traits
Household Income:
Median Age:
Housing Style:
Employment Levels:
Education Levels:
Ethnic Diversity:
Lifestyle Traits
Low
46.4
Singles
High-Rise Rentals
Retired/Professional/Management/Service
No HS Diploma; HS Graduate
White; Black
1. Read books, paint, draw

2. Consult financial planner
3. Attend auto racing (NASCAR) events
4. Read science/technology magazines
20
Segment 57 Simple Living

0.5 Mile
48 9.2% (3)
1.0 Mile
699 22.3% (2)
2.0 Miles
699 5.3% (7)
Demographic
With a median age of 41.3 years, this market is slightly older than the US median of 37 years. Approximately onefifth of Simple Living residents are aged 65 years or older; 12 percent are aged 75 or older. Half are singles who live
alone or share housing; 32 percent are married-couple families. Young families with children and ethnic cultures are
in the minority; most residents are white. This market size is stable with negligible growth.
Socioeconomic
The median household income is $29,408. Nearly 40 percent of households collect Social Security benefits, 8 percent
receive Supplemental Security Income, and 6 percent receive public assistance. Over the years, residents have built
equity in their homes and saved their hard-earned dollars to achieve their median net worth of $15,034. Most
residents who are employed work in the health care, retail trade, manufacturing, educational services, and
accommodation/food services industry sectors. Overall, 75 percent of residents aged 25 years and older have
graduated from high school. Only 15 percent hold a bachelors or graduate degree.
Residential
Simple Living neighborhoods are in the urban outskirts or suburbs throughout the United States. Residents live in
older housing; 62 percent were built before 1970. More than half of them rent. Forty-two percent of housing is
single-family dwellings, and 47 percent is in multiunit buildings of varying stories. Some seniors live in congregate
housing (assisted living). The median home value is $96,358. Twenty-two percent of households do not own a
vehicle; 45 percent own only one vehicle. Workers benefit from an average commute time to work of 20 minutes.
Preferences
The lifestyle of these residents is reflected by their ages; younger people go to nightclubs and play musical
instruments; seniors refinish furniture and go saltwater fishing. Community activities are also important to the
latter; they join fraternal orders and veterans clubs.
Simple Living households spend wisely on a restricted budget. They buy the essentials at discount stores and
occasionally treat themselves to dinner out and a movie. Cable TV is a must for these frequent viewers of family
programs, news programs, and game shows. They are big fans of daytime TV. Owning a personal computer, cell
phone, or DVD player isnt important.
Demographic Traits
Household Income:
Median Age:
Housing Style:
Employment Levels:
Education Levels:
Ethnic Diversity:
Lifestyle Traits
Lower Middle
41.3
Singles
Multi-units; Single Family
Professional/Management/Skilled/Service
No HS Diploma; High School Graduate
White
1. Go fishing, do furniture refinishing

2. Own annuities
3. Order from QVC
4. Watch syndicated TV
21
Segment 62 Modest Income Homes

0.5 Mile
14 2.7% (4)
1.0 Mile
353 11.3% (5)
2.0 Miles
353 2.7% (13)
Demographic
Eighty-three percent of the residents in Modest Income Homes neighborhoods are black. Single-person and singleparent household types are predominant; however, a higher-than-average proportion of other family households is
also present. The median age of 36 years is a year younger than the national median of 37. Many adult children still
live at home. More than one-fourth are aged 65 years or older and have retired. Many are caregivers for their
grandchildren, demonstrating strong family ties in these neighborhoods.
Socioeconomic
Most of the retirees in Modest Income Homes rely on Social Security benefits for support. Slightly more employed
residents work part-time than full-time, mainly in service and blue-collar occupations. The median household
income is $21,444; the median net worth is $12,922. The unemployment rate is 23.2 percent. Thirteen percent of
households receive Supplemental Security Income, and 10 percent receive public assistance. With little savings,
home equity contributes the lions share to a households net worth in these neighborhoods. More than 60 percent
of residents aged 25 years and older have graduated from high school. Eight percent hold a bachelors or graduate
degree, and 28 percent have attended college.
Residential
Most Modest Income Homes neighborhoods are in older suburbs of Southern metropolitan areas, with a smaller
concentration in the Midwest. More than two-thirds of the housing is single-family dwellings; 15 percent are
duplexes. Homeowners and renters are almost evenly divided. Seventy-one percent of the households own at least
one vehicle. Because demand for housing is low, home prices are very moderate; the median home value is $53,529.
Preferences
Residents are big fans of daytime and primetime TV. They go to the movies occasionally and also like to watch
movies on TV channels such as the Lifetime Movie Network and The Movie Channel. They also watch football and
basketball games on TV. They listen to urban radio. The Internet is the least effective way to reach these folks.
To save money, they shop at discount stores, limit their long-distance telephone calls, and restrict nonessential
services such as Internet access and fitness center memberships. When they participate in physical activities, they
might play basketball. Most drive used domestic sedans.
Demographic Traits
Household Income:
Median Age:
Housing Style:
Employment Levels:
Education Levels:
Ethnic Diversity:
Lifestyle Traits
Low
36.0
Other Family Households; Singles
Single Family; Duplex
Services/Skilled/Not in Labor Force
No HS Diploma; High School Graduate
Black
1. Eat at fast-food/drive-in restaurants

2. Own annuities
3. Go to sporting events; watch on TV
4. Watch cable and syndicated TV
5. Own/Lease Dodge
22
Segment 29 Rustbelt Retirees

0.5 Mile
0 0.0% (--)
1.0 Mile
355 11.3% (4)
2.0 Miles
1,902 14.5% (3)
Demographic
Most of the households in these neighborhoods are married couples with no children or singles who live alone. Twenty
percent are married couples with children. The median age is 45.6 years; more than one-third of the householders are
aged 65 years or older. Seventeen percent are veterans. These neighborhoods are not ethnically diverse.
Socioeconomic
Although many residents still work, the labor force participation rate is 58 percent. Most households derive income
from wages. However, 45 percent of households earn income from interest, dividends, and rental properties; 40
percent draw Social Security benefits; and 28 percent receive retirement income. The median household income is
$52,216, just below that of the US median. The median net worth is $130,866, slightly above the US value. Overall, 86
percent of residents aged 25 years and older have graduated from high school, approximately 50 percent have
attended college, and 20 percent hold a bachelors or graduate degree.
Residential
Most Rustbelt Retirees neighborhoods can be found in older, industrial northeastern cities, especially in Pennsylvania,
and other states surrounding the Great Lakes; 67 percent of the households are located in the Northeast and Midwest.
Twenty-eight percent are in the South. Eighty-four percent of the housing is single-family homes with a median home
value of $119,104; three-fourths were built before 1970. Unlike many retirees, these residents are content to stay put
and live in the same house for years.
Preferences
These hardworking folks are settled; many have lived in the same house for years. Loyal to country and community,
they tend to be politically conservative. They participate in public activities and fund-raising, visit elected officials, and
work for political parties or candidates. They belong to fraternal organizations, unions, and veterans clubs. Practical
people who take pride in their homes and gardens, Rustbelt Retirees buy home furnishings and work on remodeling
projects to update their houses. They watch their pennies, use coupons, and look for bargains at discount stores and
warehouse clubs. They own savings bonds and certificates of deposit and hold life insurance policies.
They eat out at family restaurants such as Perkins and Friendlys and watch rented movies on DVD instead of going to
the theater. They also go bowling, play cards and bingo, gamble in Atlantic City, and go to horse races. They watch
home improvement shows, sports events, news programs, game shows, and old reruns on TV. Favorite channels
include Home & Garden Television, the Hallmark Channel, and the Weather Channel. They listen to country, oldies,
and sports radio and peruse the daily newspaper.
Demographic Traits
Household Income:
Median Age:
Housing Style:
Employment Levels:
Education Levels:
Ethnic Diversity:
Lifestyle Traits
Middle
45.6
Married Couples with no Kids; Singles
Single Family
HS Graduate; Some College
White
1. Play bingo
2. Own annuities
3. Belong to fraternal orders, unions, etc.
4. Watch news shows on TV
5. Own/Pontiac
23
Segment 48 Great Expectations

0.5 Mile
0 0.0% (--)
1.0 Mile
350 11.2% (6)
2.0 Miles
2,735 20.9% (1)
Demographic
Young singles who live alone and married-couple families dominate the Great Expectations market, although all
household types are represented. The median age is 33.3 years. Some residents are just beginning their careers or
family lives. Compared to the US figures, this segment has a higher proportion of residents who are in their 20s and
a higher proportion of householders younger than 35 years. The ethnic diversity and racial composition of this
segment are similar to US levels.
Socioeconomic
The median household income of $40,243 and the median net worth of $21,548 are lower than the US values.
Nearly half of the population aged 25 years and older has some postsecondary education; 18 percent hold a
bachelors or graduate degree. Labor force participation rate is 66 percent; most of the jobs come from the
manufacturing, retail, and service industry sectors.
Residential
Great Expectations neighborhoods are located throughout the country, with higher proportions in the Midwest and
South. Half own their homes; half rent. More than half of the households are single-family dwellings; approximately
40 percent are apartments in low- or mid-rise buildings. The median home value is $100,315. Most of the housing
units in these older suburban neighborhoods were built before 1960.
Preferences
Great Expectations homeowners are not afraid to tackle smaller maintenance and remodeling projects, but they also
enjoy a young and active lifestyle. They go out to dinner and to the movies. They do most of their grocery shopping
at Wal-Mart Supercenters, Aldi, and Shop n Save. They throw Frisbees; play softball and pool; go canoeing; watch
horror, science fiction, and drama films on DVD; and listen to country music, classic rock, and sports on the radio.
They watch dramas, auto racing, and the evening news on TV. They occasionally eat at Arbys and Dairy Queen. They
shop at major discount and department stores. They rarely travel. Focused on starting their careers, theyre not
investing for their retirement years.
Demographic Traits
Household Income:
Median Age:
Housing Style:
Employment Levels:
Education Levels:
Ethnic Diversity:
Lifestyle Traits
Lower Middle
33.3
Mixed
Single Family; Multi-units
High School Graduate; Some College
White
1. Do painting, drawing
nd
2. Have 2 mortgage (equity loan)
3. Listen to classical music on radio
4. Read baby magazines
5. Own motorcycle
24
Segment 53 Home Town

0.5 Mile
0 0.0% (--)
1.0 Mile
89 2.8% (7)
2.0 Miles
774 5.9% (4)
Demographic
Home Town households are a mix of married-couple families, singles who live alone, and single-parent families. With
a median age of 34.5 years, this is a slightly younger market than the United States as a whole. However, one in
three is aged 65 years or older. Many families encompass two generations who have lived and worked in the
community; their children plan to do the same. Seventy-two percent of the residents are white; 15 percent are
black.
Socioeconomic
The median household income is $33,823; the median net worth is $20,574. Although 73 percent of households
derive income from wages and salaries, some rely on Supplemental Security Income and public assistance for
support. The manufacturing, retail trade, and service industry sectors are the primary sources of employment for
these residents. Unemployment in this segment is 14.9 percent. Overall, educational attainment is lower for Home
Town than for the United States. Only 8 percent hold a bachelors or graduate degree; 31 percent have attended
college.
Residential
Change is rare in these low-density, settled neighborhoods, located primarily in the Midwest and South. Home Town
residents may move from one house to another, but they seldom cross the county line. Seventy-three percent of
homes are single-family dwellings, and 11 percent are two- to four-unit structures. Home ownership is at 58 percent;
the median home value is $63,863. The average gross rent is two-thirds of the US average. Because the population in
these neighborhoods hardly grows, new construction is scarce. Most of the housing was built before 1970.
Preferences
Home Town residents savor their quasi-country lifestyle by spending time outdoors fishing and playing football.
Indoors, they play video games or watch TV favorites such as courtroom programs, wrestling, or reality shows.
Internet access and cell phone use are less important here than in other markets.
They shop for groceries at Kroger, Aldi, and Wal-Mart Supercenters. They buy clothes at discount department stores
such as Wal-Mart and Kmart, typically located in small local malls. When they eat out, they go to Bob Evans and
Ryans family restaurants or fast-food places.
Demographic Traits
Household Income:
Median Age:
Housing Style:
Employment Levels:
Education Levels:
Ethnic Diversity:
Lifestyle Traits
Lower-Middle
34.5
Mixed
Single Family
Skilled/Services
No HS Diploma; HS Graduate
White
1. Play football, go fishing

2. Have personal education loan
3. Attend country music performance
4. Watch syndicated TV
25
Segment 19 Milk and Cookies

0.5 Mile
0 0.0% (--)
1.0 Mile
0 0.0% (--)
2.0 Miles
755 5.8% (5)
Demographic
Upscale living on a family allowance, Milk and Cookies represents young, affluent married couples who are starting
their families or already have young children. The median age of 33.8 years represents the presence of kids; nearly half
of the households include children. One in four householders is between the ages of 45 and 54. The population
diversity is comparable to that of the United States, and the proportions of the population by race approximate the US
distributions with slightly above-average ratios of black and Hispanic residents.
Socioeconomic
Ninety percent of Milk and Cookies households earn income from wages. The labor force participation rate of 69.8
percent is above average. The median household income is $64,880, and the median net worth is $135,190. Fifty-eight
percent have attended college; more than 20 percent hold bachelors or graduate degrees.
Residential
Milk and Cookies residents prefer single-family homes in suburban neighborhoods of cities, largely in the South,
particularly in Texas. Smaller concentrations of households are located in the West and Midwest. The median home
value is $128,801. Housing units are generally 2030 years old. Given the concentration of dual-income families, 71
percent of households have at least two vehicles. A family with two or more workers, more than one child, and two or
more vehicles is the norm for these neighborhoods.
Preferences
As Milk and Cookies residents settle into their family-oriented lifestyle, they focus on family and the future. They are
properly insured, carrying life and accidental death and dismemberment policies. They use a credit union, have
overdraft protection, and usually have a new car loan. Although they may still own a motorcycle or small car, they
prefer larger vehicles. When they move, they rent a U-Haul and move their own belongings. Many households own a
dog. The presence of children in Milk and Cookies households drives their large purchases of baby and childrens
products including baby food, baby equipment, clothes, shoes, medicine, vitamins, board games, bicycles, toys, video
games, and childrens DVDs. Most households own one of the latest video game systems and a large-screen TV.
To save time in their busy lives, they frequently buy prepared dinners from the grocery store and fast food. They play
video games, go bowling, and visit theme parks such as Six Flags and Sea World. They watch professional football and
basketball games. Favorite cable channels include Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel,
and BET. They also work on their lawns, tackle interior painting projects, or do minor maintenance on their vehicles.
Demographic Traits
Household Income:
Median Age:
Housing Style:
Employment Levels:
Education Levels:
Ethnic Diversity:
Lifestyle Traits
Middle
33.8
Married Couples with Kids
Single Family
Professional/Management/Skilled
Some College
White
1. Frequent fast-food/drive-in restaurants

2. Have mortgage insurance
3. Buy childrens toys/games
4. Watch educational channels, Cartoon Network
5. Own/Lease Nissan
26
Retail Market Performance

ESRI's Retail MarketPlace 2010 data provides a direct comparison between retail sales and consumer spending by
industry. To capture a snapshot of an area's retail market place, the leakage and surplus factor summarizes the
relationship between supply (retail sales by businesses) and demand (consumer spending by household). Deviations
from potential sales may reveal areas of opportunity in the trade areas retail sectors, keeping in mind any extenuating
circumstances that may be driving the results.
ESRI uses the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) to classify businesses by their primary type of
economic activity. Retail establishments are classified into 27 industry groups within Retail Trade sector, and four
industry groups within the Food Services & Drinking Establishments subsector. To estimate sales, the Retail
MarketPlace database combines a number of data sources, including
Census Bureau's Census of Retail Trade (CRT)
Census Bureau's Nonemployer Statistics (NES)
ESRI's demographic data
infoUSA's business database
Bureau of Labor Statistics
All estimates of actual sales (supply) reflect current dollars derived from receipts of businesses primarily engaged in
selling merchandise. Potential sales (demand) is estimated by using ESRI's consumer spending data which provides
estimated expenditures for more than 700 products and services that are consumed by U.S. households. The estimate
of a trade areas demand is based upon estimated expenditures by households within the trade area.
Leakage within a specified trade area represents a condition where supply is less than demand. Retailers outside of the
trade area are fulfilling demand for retail products. Surplus within a specified trade area represents a condition where
supply exceeds the area's demand. Thus retailers are attracting customers that reside outside the trade area.
Sales Surplus and Leakage Estimates | 2010

Total Retail Trade and Food & Drink estimates for the study areas 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0-mile radii show a sales surplus at all
geography levels ranging from about $3.7 million for the half-mile radius to more than $108 million for the two-mile
radius. Overall sales surplus figures in the study areas are largely driven by what appears to be strong performance in
the Furniture & Home Furnishings Stores, Health & Personal Care Stores, and Food Services & Drinking Places
categories. Escalated surpluses in the 1.0- and 2.0-mile radii can also be attributed to strong performance in the Food &
Beverage Stores category.
Czech Village/New Bohemia Main Street District
2010 ESRI Sales Surplus & Leakage Estimates
NAICS Code: Business Description
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Surplus/(Leakage)
Surplus/(Leakage)
Surplus/(Leakage)
Total Retail Trade and Food & Drink (NAICS 44 45, 722)
$3,726,638
$81,671,840
$108,073,026
Total Retail Trade (NAICS 44 45)
$1,343,234
$76,543,510
$104,025,152
Total Food & Drink (NAICS 722)
$2,383,404
$5,128,329
$4,047,874
The following table presents a detail of sales surplus and leakage estimates for 27 industry groups in the Retail Trade
sector and for the four industry groups within the Food Services & Drinking Places subsector for the Czech Village/Ne
Bohemia Main Street District study area geographies.
27
Czech Village/New Bohemia Main Street District ESRI Retail MarketPlace Report 2010 Summary
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Surplus/(Leakage)
Estimate
Surplus/(Leakage)
Estimate
Surplus/(Leakage)
Estimate
Total Retail Trade and Food & Drink (NAICS 44 45, 722)
$3,726,638
$81,671,840
$108,073,026
Total Retail Trade (NAICS 44 45)
$1,343,234
$76,543,510
$104,025,152
Total Food & Drink (NAICS 722)
$2,383,404
$5,128,329
$4,047,874
441: Motor Vehicle & Parts Dealers
($2,603,045)
($4,966,906)
($7,187,935)
4411: Automobile Dealers
($2,243,174)
($4,683,648)
($5,969,642)
4412: Other Motor Vehicle Dealers
($199,985)
($810,937)
($2,108,169)
4413: Auto Parts, Accessories, and Tire Stores
($159,886)
$527,679
$889,876
442: Furniture & Home Furnishings Stores
$1,182,331
$18,918,211
$20,921,052
4421: Furniture Stores
$1,017,382
$18,270,161
$20,360,142
$164,949
$648,051
$560,910
$40,768
$4,339,733
$12,524,847
444: Bldg Materials, Garden Equip. & Supply Stores
$373,063
$2,985,198
($1,480,171)
4441: Building Material and Supplies Dealers
$425,483
$3,007,897
($610,344)
4442: Lawn and Garden Equipment and Supplies Stores
($52,421)
($22,700)
($869,826)
445: Food & Beverage Stores
($15,512)
$10,763,343
$64,516,880
($138,716)
$10,011,388
$63,569,078
($174)
$115,285
$540,785
$123,378
$636,670
$407,017
446/4461: Health & Personal Care Stores
$1,019,572
$41,274,909
$48,946,475
447/4471: Gasoline Stations
$3,567,262
$6,026,875
($5,648,646)
448: Clothing and Clothing Accessories Stores
($391,793)
($639,571)
($5,811,910)
4481: Clothing Stores
($293,396)
($424,327)
($4,391,317)
4482: Shoe Stores
($46,819)
($202,345)
($1,065,237)
4483: Jewelry, Luggage, and Leather Goods Stores
($51,578)
($12,899)
($355,355)
4422: Home Furnishings Stores
443/4431: Electronics & Appliance Stores
4451: Grocery Stores

4452: Specialty Food Stores
4453: Beer, Wine, and Liquor Stores
Data Source: ESRI Retail MarketPlace Profile, 2010.

Data Note: The polarity of surplus/leakage estimates shown in this report (as compared to those shown in the original ESRI reports) have
been reversed to show a surplus as a positive value, and to show a leakage as a negative value. The Retail Gap (Sales
Surplus/Leakage) represents the difference between Retail Potential and Retail Sales. A positive value represents a surplus in retail
sales, often indicating a market where customers are drawn in from outside the defined trade area.
28
Czech Village/New Bohemia Main Street District ESRI Retail MarketPlace Report 2010 Summary
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Surplus/(Leakage)
Estimate
Surplus/(Leakage)
Estimate
Surplus/(Leakage)
Estimate
($106,052)
$83,348
($412,731)
4511: Sporting Goods/Hobby/Musical Instrument Stores
($82,379)
$183,597
$43,872
4512: Book, Periodical, and Music Stores
($23,674)
($100,249)
($456,603)
452: General Merchandise Stores
($1,754,145)
($5,206,326)
($26,853,710)
4521: Department Stores (Excluding Leased Depts.)
($1,020,836)
($4,317,906)
($22,917,868)
($733,309)
($888,420)
($3,935,842)
453: Miscellaneous Store Retailers
$190,679
$1,000,326
$431,889
4531: Florists
($20,959)
($67,198)
($260,413)
4532: Office Supplies, Stationery, and Gift Stores
$141,060
$139,168
($311,830)
4533: Used Merchandise Stores
$50,767
$157,452
$26,773
4539: Other Miscellaneous Store Retailers
$19,811
$770,904
$977,359
($159,895)
$1,964,368
$4,079,112
($38,645)
($163,158)
($868,108)
($9,421)
($40,512)
($211,374)
4543: Direct Selling Establishments
($111,830)
$2,168,037
$5,158,594
722: Food Services & Drinking Places
$2,383,404
$5,128,329
$4,047,874
7221: Full-Service Restaurants
$1,249,034
$2,576,863
$1,131,432
($1,019,571)
($2,669,414)
($2,146,414)
$1,562,208
$3,044,787
$1,157,816
$591,734
$2,176,093
$3,905,041

451: Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book, and Music Stores
4529: Other General Merchandise Stores
454: Nonstore Retailers

4541: Electronic Shopping and Mail-Order Houses
4542: Vending Machine Operators
7222: Limited-Service Eating Places

7223: Special Food Services
7224: Drinking Places (Alcoholic Beverages)
Data Source: ESRI Retail MarketPlace Profile, 2010.
Data Note: The polarity of surplus/leakage estimates shown in this report (as compared to those shown in the original ESRI reports) have
been reversed to show a surplus as a positive value, and to show a leakage as a negative value. The Retail Gap (Sales
Surplus/Leakage) represents the difference between Retail Potential and Retail Sales. A positive value represents a surplus in retail
sales, often indicating a market where customers are drawn in from outside the defined trade area.
29
Sales Surplus/Leakage Factors

Sales Surplus/Leakage Factors present a snapshot of retail opportunity. This is a measure of the relationship between
supply and demand that ranges from +100 (total surplus) to -100 (total leakage). A positive value represents a surplus
of retail sales (often indicative of a market where customers are drawn from outside the trade area). Categories
showing the highest surplus factors may be indicative of relative strength in the market and opportunities for
expansion. Negative leakage factors may reveal retail opportunity, with the lowest values indicating possible targets for
retail expansion or recruitment.
The following table shows study area estimates for some of the lowest and highest Surplus/Leakage Factors for select
Retail and Food & Drink categories and subcategories in the half-mile radius. Corresponding figures for the one- and
two-mile radii are shown for comparison and for assessment of broader performance and opportunities.
Czech Village/New Bohemia District ESRI Retail MarketPlace Report 2010 | Surplus/Leakage Factors Summary
Sales Surplus/Leakage Factors Select Categories
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
Factor
# Biz
Factor
# Biz
Factor
# Biz
448: Clothing & Clothing Accessories Stores
(100.0)
(23.6)
(48.5)
13
4512: Book, Periodical and Music Stores
(100.0)
(100.0)
(75.9)
452: General Merchandise Stores
(100.0)
(53.8)
(52.0)
4531: Florists
(100.0)
(65.4)
(39.2)
441: Motor Vehicle & Parts Dealers
(96.9)
(28.9)
(6.4)
26
(92.4)
(41.9)
(4.7)
23
4511: Sporting Goods/Hobby/Musical Instrument Stores
(82.8)
19.4
1.1
(3.2)
33.9
38.5
18
(0.7)
50.5
48.0
87.1
75.5
18.1
83.1
85.6
41.8
74.3
71.6
11
46.4
27
66.7
59.2
4.4
4421: Furniture Stores
64.6
88.6
61.4
4532: Office Supplies, Stationery, and Gift Stores
50.2
19.1
(11.1)
4422: Home Furnishings Stores
48.6
47.3
12.5
10
446/4461: Health & Personal Care Stores
47.5
89.7
12
66.6
24
46.6
29.8
19
3.4
47
443/4431: Electronics & Appliance Stores
5.8
61.0
10
45.8
27
Data Note: The polarity of surplus/leakage factors shown in this report (as compared to those shown in the original ESRI reports) have
been reversed to show a surplus factor as a positive value, and to show a leakage factor as a negative value.
30
Community Participation
The process behind the completion of this study was orchestrated to provide opportunities for Czech Village / New
Bohemia Main Street District stakeholders and Cedar Rapids area residents and visitors the chance to provide ideas and
input that form the basis for this studys findings and directions. Public participation opportunities included:
The performance of an online consumer survey conducted as part of the concurrent Czech Village / New
Bohemia Main Street District revitalization strategy planning process, completed by 309 respondents.
The conduct of a consumer intercept survey administered by the CV/NB Main Street organization and
completed by 107 visitors to the District.
The performance of a business survey completed by 33 CV/NB Main Street District businesses.
Following is a categorized, capsule summary of key results and findings relevant to Czech Village / New Bohemia Main
Street District economic development topics and initiatives.
Market Region
The Cedar Rapids regional market and the tertiary markets are viewed as an important part of the Czech Village / New
Bohemia Main Street District economy and efforts geared toward enhancing visitor and tourist-related attractions in
the District stand to benefit area businesses. The pull and widespread appeal of the District as a regional destination
is evident in survey respondent origin results. While survey participants living in the Northeast and Southeast
quadrants of Cedar Rapids accounted for 47% of all survey respondents, more than 30% of survey respondents
indicated they live in the surrounding communities of Hiawatha, Marion, Iowa City or Coralville, or an other place.
Where do you live?
Place of Residence
Intercept Survey
Online Survey
Total Sample
A. Cedar Rapids - NE
24
24.2%
49
19.7%
73
21.0%
B. Cedar Rapids - NW
10
10.1%
25
10.0%
35
10.1%
C. Cedar Rapids - SE
20
20.2%
71
28.5%
91
26.1%
D. Cedar Rapids - SW
15
15.2%
25
10.0%
40
11.5%
E. Hiawatha
2.0%
2.0%
2.0%
F. Marion
5.1%
17
6.8%
22
6.3%
G. Iowa City / Coralville
6.1%
11
4.4%
17
4.9%
17
17.2%
46
18.5%
63
18.1%
99
100.10%
249
100.00%
348
100.0%
H. Other*
Total
* Other Location
Intercept - Other
Online - Other
Total - Other
North Liberty, IA
2.0%
1.2%
1.4%
Solon, IA
4.0%
0.0%
1.1%
Robins
0.0%
1.2%
0.9%
Mt Vernon
0.0%
1.2%
0.9%
Anamosa, IA
1.0%
0.4%
0.6%
Ely, IA
2.0%
0.0%
0.6%
Atkins
0.0%
0.8%
0.6%
Fairfax
0.0%
0.8%
0.6%
Swisher
0.0%
0.8%
0.6%
Walford
0.0%
0.8%
0.6%
All Others
8.1%
28
11.2%
36
10.3%
31
The destination and attraction-oriented nature of the district, and its role and potential as part of the communitys and
regions tourism industry, is also displayed in intercept survey responses showing that 28% of visitors from outside the
area included an overnight lodging stay at a Cedar Rapids area lodging facility as part of their itinerary. Notably, the
intercept survey was conducted in February a month not typically associated with high levels or tourist activity.
If you are a visitor from outside the Cedar Rapids area, does your visit include an overnight stay at a Cedar Rapids
area lodging facility?
Stay at Area Lodging Facility?
Intercept Survey
A.
Yes
28.0%
B.
No
18
72.0%
C.
Not Applicable (I live in the Cedar Rapids area)
61
--
86
100.0%
Total
Data Note: Percentages based on responding sample selecting Yes or No.
Still, District businesses appear to recognize the critical role that Cedar Rapids residents play in the sustainability of the
Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District economy and their businesses, with 90% of business survey
respondents identifying local/regional Cedar Rapids residents as their primary customer base.
Business development, marketing and promotion strategies should continue to recognize the Cedar Rapids city and
regional markets as a dominant force, while public improvements, special features and enhancements might be
designed with both area residents and visitors in mind.
Appeal and Attraction

More than 43% of all survey respondents indicated they visit the District daily or one or twice a week a level that
seems to illustrate the hometown neighborhood qualities of the district and mix of businesses that is nurturing a loyal
client base.
How often do you come to the Czech Village / New Bo Main Street District?
Frequency of visits
Intercept Survey
Online Survey
Total Sample
A.
Daily
7.5%
48
15.5%
56
13.5%
B.
Once or twice a week
38
35.5%
85
27.5%
123
29.6%
C.
Once or twice a month
24
22.4%
100
32.4%
124
29.8%
D.
A few times a year
23
21.5%
68
22.0%
91
21.9%
14
13.1%
2.6%
22
5.3%
107
100.0%
309
100.0%
416
100.0%
E.
Total
This is my first visit to the District
(IS)
(OS)
/ Never
The findings could be directly related to business survey results that showed 30% of respondents cited Reputation as
the top reason for customers to do business with them. A business reputation is a value-based quality which, as
opposed to commodities, is nurtured through time, experience, messages and frequent interaction.
Business Survey: Which one of the following best describes the main reason for customers to do business with you?
Response
Count
Percentage
A. Selection & variety
9
27.3%
B. Customer service
6
18.2%
C. Convenience
0
0.0%
D. Price of goods & services
5
15.2%
E. Reputation
10
30.3%
F. Other*
3
9.1%
TOTAL
33
100.0%
Other responses: All the above; Product is top of the line, fixes a lot of their problems; and Tradition Ethnic History.
32
Notably, 13% of intercept survey respondents indicated this was their first visit to the district, an indication that the
District is still undiscovered territory for a segment of the population, but also showing an ability to lure first-time
visitors. Less than 3% of online survey participants indicated they never visit the district and largely cited a lack of
awareness as the reason for not visiting the District. Online survey respondents who never visited the district, when
asked what might bring them to the District, selected shopping (retail), restaurants/bars, shopping (food) and festivals
as top draws.
What might bring you to the District?
Potential Draws
A. Shopping (retail)
B. Shopping (food)
C. Restaurants / Bars
D. Bars / Nightlife
E. Businesses
F. Services
G. Live Music
H. Festivals
I. Museums
J. Art
Total
Online Survey
7
5
6
2
3
1
4
5
2
4
39
17.9%
12.8%
15.4%
5.1%
7.7%
2.6%
10.3%
12.8%
5.1%
10.3%
100.0%
The findings point to the continued need to build awareness through marketing, advertising and messages that
promote the complete and abundant mix of businesses, attractions and experiences offered in the District. Marketing
and public relations efforts might seek to expand on the sense of the District as a historic and culturally diverse
hometown neighborhood business district, and nurture an even stronger sense of brand-loyalty by encouraging crossmarketing efforts which promote the Districts full range of products, services, attractions and experiences.
The diverse nature and draw of the district is illustrated in the wide distribution of responses to the question, What
brings you to the district? Restaurants and bars were selected by the largest segment of all survey respondents (64%),
followed by shopping food (47%), live music (38%), festivals (37%) and shopping retail (31%).
What brings you to the District?
Purpose/Attraction
Intercept Survey
Online Survey
5.8%
Total Sample
A.
I live in the District
13
12.1%
18
31
7.5%
B.
I work in the District
13
12.1%
23
7.4%
36
8.7%
C.
Shopping (retail)
36
33.6%
93
30.1%
129
31.0%
D.
Shopping (food)
58
54.2%
137
44.3%
195
46.9%
E.
Restaurants / Bars
58
54.2%
210
68.0%
268
64.4%
F.
Museums
16
15.0%
60
19.4%
76
18.3%
G.
Festivals
16
15.0%
139
45.0%
155
37.3%
H.
Live Music
24
22.4%
134
43.4%
158
38.0%
I.
Art
18
16.8%
91
29.4%
109
26.2%
J.
Services
0.0%
18
5.8%
18
4.3%
K.
Businesses
10
9.3%
52
16.8%
62
14.9%
L.
Other*
24
22.4%
22
7.1%
46
11.1%
Data Note: Multiple responses allowed. Percentages based on survey samples. Percentages do not equal 100%.
* Other Responses (IS): Son; gift certificate to NewBo, otherwise I wouldn't come back. There's nothing special and it's all expensive!; xmas gift, given
newbo gift cert; the market; Im from CR; family; Chrome; hair cut; NewBo Market; Picking up meat order; Dr appt; NewBo; and Volunteer at the NCSML.
33
The findings point to the never-ending need to build awareness through marketing, advertising and messages that
promote the complete and abundant mix of businesses, attractions and experiences offered in the District. Marketing
and public relations efforts might seek to expand on the sense of the District as a historic and culturally diverse
hometown neighborhood business district, and nurture an even stronger sense of brand-loyalty by encouraging crossmarketing efforts which promote the Districts full range of products, services, attractions and experiences.
The design of effective marketing strategies and messages for the District might take cues and direction from survey
results highlighting what respondents like most about the district. While tangible assets, businesses and various
features were cited frequently, the largest concentration of survey respondents pointed to more intangible features
and qualities related to the Districts character and environment, including its historic character and heritage, its feel,
its uniqueness, its potential, its urban flair, and the sense that the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District is
an area on the rise.
IS: What do you like most about the District? / OS: What do you like most about the District today?
Category/Topic
Impressions Character and Environment
Intercept Survey
Online Survey
Total Sample
38
46.3%
71
34.0%
109
37.5%
11.0%
39
18.7%
48
16.5%
14
17.1%
22
10.5%
36
12.4%
Attractions and Activities
Businesses; Business Mix/Variety
Eating and Drinking Places
4.9%
24
11.5%
28
9.6%
Changes and Improvements
4.9%
21
10.0%
25
8.6%
Arts and Culture
4.9%
16
7.7%
20
6.9%
Design Features
8.5%
10
4.8%
17
5.8%
Other/Undefined
2.4%
2.9%
2.7%
82
100.00%
209
100.10%
291
100.0%
Total
Data Note: Responses categorized for summary purposes. Complete list of categorized raw data responses provided as supplemental data.
Additional direction for the design of District marketing and promotion strategies and messages is provided in
descriptors offered by online survey respondents who were asked to list three words that describe the district today.
Messages and images capturing the most popular buzz words offer a chance to build on qualities, features and
attributes that are already recognized, known, accepted and attached to the District and could offer the best chance
for the District to deliver on a brand promise.
List three words that describe the District today.
Words/Word Groups
Online Survey
Fun
31
10.0%
Growing
27
8.7%
Historic, Historical, History
20
6.5%
Vibrant
20
6.5%
Art, Artistic, Arts, Artsie, Artsy
19
6.1%
Exciting, Excitement
16
5.2%
Eclectic
14
4.5%
Potential
13
4.2%
Cultural, Culture
12
3.9%
Emergent, Emerging
10
3.2%
New
10
3.2%
Data Note: Words and word variations with highest frequency shown. Percentages based on total survey sample. Complete raw data listing of
responses provided as supplemental data.
34
Event Attraction
Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District events appear to be effective, to varying degrees, in drawing traffic
and attention to the District. More than 40% of all survey respondents indicated attend NewBo Fest, 28% attend Houby
Days, and 20% attend Czech Fall Festival. The three least attended events according to cumulative survey figures are
Woody Fest (4.6%), Landfall Festival (8.9%) and 2x2xU (10.6%).
Which annual events do you attend?
Events
Intercept Survey
Online Survey
Total Sample
A.
2x2xU
5.8%
40
12.9%
44
10.6%
B.
BrewNost
13.0%
55
17.8%
64
15.4%
C.
EcoFest
11.6%
60
19.4%
68
16.3%
D.
Czech Fall Festival
26
37.7%
57
18.4%
83
20.0%
E.
Houby Days
35
50.7%
80
25.9%
115
27.6%
F.
Landfall Festival
4.3%
34
11.0%
37
8.9%
G.
NewBo Fest
27
39.1%
141
45.6%
168
40.4%
H.
Old Prague Christmas Market
15
21.7%
50
16.2%
65
15.6%
I.
St. Josephs Day Parade
--
--
38
12.3%
38
12.3%
J.
Very Cherry Holiday
13.0%
63
20.4%
72
17.3%
K.
Walk / Run Races
13
18.8%
49
15.9%
62
14.9%
L.
Woody Fest
8.7%
13
4.2%
19
4.6%
Data Note: Multiple responses allowed. Percentages based on responding sample. Percentages do not equal 100%.
District festivals and special events, as demonstrated throughout the survey, are an important drawing card for the
District and likely contribute to the Districts fun factor. Activities and qualities associated with top-ranked festivals
and events should be identified and, where practicable and appropriate, translated and adapted to events which might
be underperforming, and considered in the course of planning new events.
Media Preferences and Effectiveness

Survey findings on the media preferences of consumers in the Cedar Rapids area and sources considered most effective
by District businesses can provide direction for effective business and District marketing, promotion and cooperative
advertising strategies. The information can also provide direction for communicating news and proposals for changes
and improvements in the District.
Media and Information Sources
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
Newspaper
Shoppers Guide
Television
AM/FM Radio
Yellow Pages
Direct Mail
Internet Websites
Email / News Feeds
Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)
Other
None
Of the following, which two (2)

media and information sources do
you use most often to get local area
news and information about local
events and businesses?
Consumer Intercept Survey
43
41.0%
2
1.9%
54
51.4%
25
23.8%
1
1.0%
4
3.8%
45
42.9%
18
17.1%
25
23.8%
6
5.7%
3
2.9%
Of the following media and direct

marketing resources, which two (2)
are most effective for your
business?
Business Survey
4
1
4
5
3
1
11
1
18
8
0
12.1%
3.0%
12.1%
15.2%
9.1%
3.0%
33.3%
3.0%
54.5%
24.2%
0.0%
Data Note: Multiple responses allowed. Percentages based number of participants responding to question; percentages do not equal 100%.
35
Results from survey questions identifying media and information sources used most frequently or considered most
effective reveal interesting dynamics and trends in the marketplace:
Television was selected by the largest concentration of consumers (51%) as a source used most often to get
local area news and information, but was selected by only 12% of business survey respondents and one their
most effective media and marketing resources. Likewise, newspaper was selected by 41% of consumers, but
by only 12% of businesses.
Internet websites and social media were selected with high frequencies by both consumer and business
survey participants, illustrating a dynamic shift and trend to Internet-based tools and resources.
Email and news feeds, tools which are complimentary and compatible as add-ons to Internet websites and
social media applications, were cited by 17% on consumers as being a top source for news and information,
but by only one business as being an effective media and advertising resource.
Nearly one-fourth of businesses selected other as one of the two most effective marketing and advertising
resources, with other responses further specified as: City Revealed; Word of mouth (6); and Referrals.
The comparison of consumer and business survey rankings for media, marketing and information sources show both
some stark inconsistencies, and some common trends, between media sources that consumers rely on for news and
information as compared to those deemed most effective for marketing and advertising by District businesses.
The emergence of Internet websites and social media as an effective resource for both consumers and businesses
could, in particular, lead to some intriguing and creative possibilities for District marketing, public relations, and even
business development. The ranking of media preferences demonstrates the growing influence of the Internet and
social media applications as a news resource, for researching products and services, and for communicating with
clients.
The Internet can be a particularly valuable resource for businesses because it provides the potential for businesses to
expand their trade area well beyond local or regional geographies. Businesses with collectible, specialty, and custom
merchandise lines, in particular, can use the Internet to market to the entire United States or even globally. Even
traditional retailers and business carrying staple products are reaping benefits as, more and more, consumers use the
Internet to shop and compare products and services, and then use the Internet in much the same way previous
generations used the Yellow Pages as a resource to find a local outlet or vendor where they can make their purchase.
The District appears to be well positioned to capitalize on these trends. The vast majority of District business survey
participants have established a presence on the Internet, with 27 businesses (82%) indicating that their business has an
Internet website, and 28 businesses (85%) indicating they have a Facebook page for their business. Eighteen businesses
(55%) identified social media, and 11 businesses (33%) identified their website, as being among the most effective tools
for marketing their businesses.
District marketing and cooperative advertising efforts should consider how the Internet and various E-commerce,
online directories and social media and mobile applications might be most effectively used to communicate with
consumers and to further District promotional goals.
Business development efforts must also consider how the growing influence of Internet e-commerce and social media
might impact local business retention, expansion and recruitment strategies both positively and negatively. Specialty
businesses that otherwise might not be sustainable if left to rely exclusively on the local trade area, but that have
product lines conducive to e-commerce, may be candidates for expansion and recruitment. Conversely, consideration
must be afforded as to how e-commerce might pose competition for existing and targeted businesses.
The results and trends could provide direction for certain businesses and the District as they consider possibilities for
reaching new audiences through both individual and cooperative marketing & advertising efforts. Notably, 42% of
business survey respondents selected Yes when asked if they would consider participating in a Czech Village / New
Bohemia District cooperative advertising or marketing program, suggesting that the timing for a concerted campaign
that utilizes and experiments with various medium and applications could be opportune.
36
Values and Priorities

Consumer and business survey respondents tend to have disparate views in considering priorities for possible District
enhancement efforts. Results from the consumer intercept survey place the highest priority on possible efforts to
create incentives for new and expanding businesses, and to restore and preserve the Districts historic character.
Business survey results show respondents, collectively, placing the highest priority on possible efforts to stage
additional festivals and special events in the District, and to improve streets, sidewalks, lighting, furnishings, green
spaces, trails, etc., in the District.
Would you place a high, moderate or low priority on possible District enhancement efforts to:
Consumer Intercept Survey
Business Survey
High
Moderate
Low
High
Moderate
Low
Restore and preserve the Districts historic

character?
60% (2)
34%
4%
59% (3)
38%
0%
Improve streets, sidewalks, lighting, furnishings,

green spaces, trails, etc., in the District?
58% (3)
37%
3%
69% (2)
28%
3%
Stage additional festivals and special events in

the District?
43% (4)
43%
11%
72% (1)
25%
3%
Create incentives for new and expanding

businesses in the District?
60% (1)
36%
1%
59% (4)
31%
9%
Improve and/or create more housing in the

District?
27% (5)
40%
29%
34% (5)
28%
28%
Notes: Ranking of High value frequency among survey group/items shown in parentheses. No Opinion responses omitted from table.
The consumer intercept survey groups high ranking of possible efforts to restore and preserve the Districts historic
character is consistent with the value placed on the Districts historic character by the online survey group. More than
91% of online survey participants indicated they Agree or Strongly Agree with the statement, The historic
character of the District is important.
Evaluate the following statement: The historic character of the District is important.
Historic Character of District is Important
A. Strongly Agree
B. Agree
C. Disagree
D. Strongly Disagree
E. No Opinion
Total
Online Survey
148
83
6
5
10
252
58.7%
32.9%
2.4%
2.0%
4.0%
100.0%
The views regarding priorities for possible enhancements expressed by consumer intercept survey respondents tend to
be consistent with the tangible and intangible qualities of the district that are most liked by consumers, and that make
it a special place. Priorities emphasized by business survey participants appear to recognize the effectiveness and
success of existing festivals and special events and a desire for still more and are more focused on improvements to
the streetscape and public spaces.
While the divergence in opinions expressed by the consumer and business groups is not immense, it does reinforce the
value of the comprehensive Main Street Four Point Approach being implemented by the Czech Village / New Bohemia
Main Street organization. Survey results also provide direction for communicating plans, progress and changes in ways
that respond to the values and priorities identified by each group. So, too, simply sharing consumer survey results with
District business owners and stakeholders might help to align perspectives via an enhanced awareness of the markets
values, desires and priorities.
37
Input regarding priorities for possible District enhancement efforts is generally consistent with suggestions offered by
business and consumer intercept respondents when asked, What is the first thing that should be done to improve the
Czech Village / New Bo District? Design-oriented subjects and topics topped the list compiled by both groups. Business
Improvement/Development initiatives were also cited frequently and largely revolved around a desire for new and
additional businesses.
Consumers: What is the first thing that should be done to improve the Czech Village / New Bo District?
Category/Subcategory
Intercept Survey
Business Survey
Category: Design
37
56.1%
11
45.8%
Historic Preservation and Planning
13
19.7%
Parking and Transportation
13
19.7%
16.7%
Maintenance and Cleanliness
10.6%
--
--
Flood Recovery/Remediation
--
--
20.8%
Streetscape and Public Spaces
6.1%
8.3%
13
19.7%
20.8%
Category: Business Improvement
Business Development; Add/Recruit Business
13.6%
12.5%
Business Operations
4.5%
--
--
Redevelopment/Infill
--
--
8.3%
Housing
1.5%
--
--
Category: Promotion
13.6%%
12.5%
Marketing
12.1%
4.2%
Festivals and Events
1.5%
8.3%
Category: Organization Advocacy & Public Relations
--
--
20.8%
Advocacy and Public Relations
--
--
16.7%
General/Other
--
--
4.2%
10.6%
--
--
Category: Other/Undefined
Data Note: Responses categorized for summary purposes. Percentage shown based on responding sample. Complete list of categorized raw data
responses provided as supplemental data.
38
Opportunities
Surveys were among a number of tools used to help identify and gauge the potential for possible business expansion
and recruitment prospects in the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District, and for other features, attractions
and activities that might increase the volume and frequency of visits to the District. The information is helpful in
assessing opportunities and in identifying possible gaps in the Districts business mix.
Suggestions compiled from online consumer survey responses to the question, What do you think is missing from the
District? could provide additional insight and help to gauge how the market might respond to various types of new
and expanded businesses, attractions and features. The following table displays a categorized listing of online
consumer survey responses which might offer direction for District business development and enhancement strategies.
What do you think is missing from the District?
Online Survey
Businesses Retail General/Other
38
19.3%
Businesses Eating and Drinking Places
26
13.2%
Housing
25
12.7%
Design Parking and Transportation
24
12.2%
Businesses General/Mix
18
9.1%
Design Streetscape and Public Spaces
15
7.6%
Other/Undefined
10
5.1%
Design Historic Preservation and Planning
4.6%
Promotion Activities, Events and Entertainment
4.6%
Promotion Marketing
4.1%
Businesses Entertainment, Amusements and Gaming
3.6%
Businesses Clothing and Clothing Accessories
3.0%
Organization Policy and Planning
3.0%
Businesses Food and Beverage Stores
2.0%
Businesses Hobbies, Arts and Crafts
1.5%
Businesses Other/Undefined
1.5%
Design Maintenance and Cleanliness
1.5%
Businesses Gifts, Floral, Novelties and Stationery
1.0%
* Categorized listing of responses shown. More than one response accepted. Percentages based on responding sample (197); percentages do not
total 100%. Complete list of categorized raw data responses provided as supplemental data.
39
Consumer intercept survey responses to the follow-up, open ended question, Is there a particular type of business or
attraction that would make you visit the District more often? yielded a similar list of businesses, attractions, activities
and features.
Is there a particular type of business or attraction that would make you visit the District more often?
New businesses and attraction opportunities
Intercept Survey
A.
Yes (Please specify):*
54
56.8%
B.
No
41
43.2%
95
100.0%
Total
* Yes (Please specify):

Intercept Survey
Businesses Eating and Drinking Places
14
26.4%
Businesses Food and Beverage Stores
17.0%
Promotion Activities, Events and Entertainment
15.1%
Other/Undefined
9.4%
Businesses Amusements and Gaming
7.5%
Businesses Hobbies, Arts and Crafts
5.7%
Businesses Retail General/Other
5.7%
Businesses Clothing and Clothing Accessories
3.8%
Design Special Features and Amenities
3.8%
Businesses Sporting Goods
1.9%
Businesses Used Merchandise and Antiques
1.9%
Promotion Marketing
1.9%
Data Note: Multiple responses allowed. Categorized listing of responses shown. Complete list of categorized raw data responses provided as
supplemental data.
40
Business Climate and Opportunities

Certain business survey results provide a general indication of the existing business climate in the Czech Village / New
Bohemia Main Street District and the potential for existing businesses to expand. Survey findings, along with ESRI data,
can provide direction for business retention and expansion efforts, including possibilities for providing business
assistance and programs that could catalyze private reinvestment and positive changes in the District. The business
survey questionnaire was completed by 33 businesses.
Business Type, Ownership and Tenure

A breakdown of businesses completing the business survey, by business type, displays the diverse nature of the Czech
Village / New Bohemia Main Street District. Food & Beverage (27%), Retail (24%) and Service (21%) business types
comprise more than 72% of the survey sample and appear to provide a fair representation of the Districts existing
business mix.
What is your primary business type?
Response
Count
Percentage
A.
Retail
24.2%
B.
Service
21.2%
C.
Professional/Office
9.1%
D.
Financial/Banking
0.0%
E.
Food & Beverage
27.3%
F.
Entertainment
0.0%
G.
Manufacturing
0.0%
H.
Non-profit
6.1%
I.
Other*
12.1%
33
100.0%
TOTAL
Other responses: Food/beverage that offers entertainment; Art Gallery/Studio; Retail/service; and Real Estate.
Ownership status and the tenure of businesses in the District provide an indication of its stability, the markets ability
to sustain businesses, and the Districts appeal as a place for investors and entrepreneurs. Based on business survey
results, two-thirds of Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District businesses rent their existing location.
About one-third of businesses participating in the survey have been located in the District for ten or more years a
figure that could be viewed as an indicator of stability in the business mix, but that could also suggest a need, now or in
the near future, for succession planning. Results are also suggestive of an area that attracts new entrepreneurs and
investors as evidenced by the fact that 16 respondents (50%) indicated their business has been located in the Czech
Village / New Bohemia Main Street District for 4 years or less.
How long has your business been located in the Czech Village/New Bohemia District?
Response
Count
A.
Less than 1 year
B.
Percentage
6
18.8%
1 to 4 years
10
31.3%
C.
5 to 9 years
15.6%
D.
10 to 20 years
21.9%
E.
21+ years
12.5%
32
100.0%
TOTAL
41
Potential Business Expansion and Assistance

The retention and expansion of existing businesses is a key to successful business development and recruitment
efforts. Business survey results suggest that Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District business owners are
generally optimistic regarding their potential for expansion within the next one or two years, with 71% indicating some
or a high likelihood for expansion.
Which of the following best describes the potential for your business to expand within the next 1 or 2 years?
Response
Count
Percentage
A.
High likelihood
29.0%
B.
Some likelihood
13
41.9%
C.
Low likelihood
22.6%
D.
No likelihood
6.5%
31
100.0%
TOTAL
Business survey participants also provide insight on possible near term changes that could occur within the District
based on affirmative responses to a list of possible changes or modifications. The frequency of businesses indicating
plans to increase marketing (59%), expand their business (48%), increase their number of employees (41%), expand
hours of operation (41%), expand store inventory (37%), and start or complete building improvements within the next
year or two (33%) are positive economic indicators for the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District. Only one
business indicated plans to sell their business, and no businesses indicated plans to move out of the District or close
their business in the next year or two.
In the next year or two, do you plan to change or modify your business in any of the following ways?
Response
Count
A.
Expand your business
B.
Down-size your business
C.
Expand hours of operation
D.
Decrease hours of operation
E.
F.
G.
Expand store inventory
H.
Decrease store inventory
I.
Percentage
13
48.1%
0.0%
11
40.7%
3.7%
Increase marketing
16
59.3%
Decrease marketing
0.0%
10
37.0%
0.0%
Increase number of employees
11
40.7%
J.
Decrease number of employees
3.7%
K.
Start and/or complete building improvements
33.3%
L.
Relocate your business in the district
3.7%
M. Move your business out of the district
0.0%
N.
Sell your business
3.7%
O.
Close your business
0.0%
P.
Other
0.0%
Data Note: Multiple responses allowed. Percentages shown based on 27 participants responding to question. Percentages
do not equal 100%
42
Guidance for possible Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District business assistance and development efforts
that could help to promote positive changes and catalyze investment is provided by business survey respondents
indicating whether they would be inclined to use various types of programs and incentives. Of those surveyed, 50%
indicated an interest in business marketing consultations, 45% in tax credits, 40% in business assistance seminars, and
35% in business management consultations, low-interest line of credit/payment, and free or low cost building
improvement design services.
Would you be inclined to use any of the following business programs and incentives?
Response
Count
A.
Business management consultations
B.
Business marketing consultations
C.
Percentage
7
35.0%
10
50.0%
Business assistance seminars
40.0%
D.
Low-interest line of credit/payment
35.0%
E.
Low-interest building improvement loans
15.0%
F.
Tax credits
45.0%
G.
Free/low-cost building improvement design services
35.0%
H.
Assistance to sell your building and/or business
5.0%
I.
Other
5.0%
Data Note: Multiple responses allowed. Percentages shown based on 20 participants responding. Percentages do not equal 100%
Other response: Bring building back to original storefront.
The results show comparatively high levels of interest on the part of District business owners to participate and access
business assistance programs and services and a real opportunity for the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street
District organization to play a pivotal role in shaping the Districts future. The organization should continue to work
closely with Main Street Iowa and other economic development partners and agencies to access and deliver training,
services and technical assistance directly related to these identified areas of need and interest.
Complementary Business Opportunities

Business survey participants were provided an opportunity to identify complementary business opportunities for the
District by listing up to three types of new business that, located near them, would help their business generate more
revenue. The categorized results are displayed in the following table.
What type of new businesses, located near you, would help your business generate more revenue?
Category
Count
Percentage
Eating and Drinking Places
13
39.4%
Amusements, Gaming and Entertainment
11
33.3%
Specialty and Miscellaneous Retail
11
33.3%
Food and Beverage Stores
18.2%
Services Health and Fitness
18.2%
Retail General/Undefined
12.9%
Hobbies, Arts and Crafts
9.1%
Clothing and Clothing Accessories
6.1%
Office/Professional
6.1%
Lodging and Accommodations
3.0%
Data Note: Summary of most frequent responses, categorized for tabulation purposes and shown based on frequency. Up to three responses
allowed per questionnaire. Percentages based on total sample. Complete list of categorized raw data responses provided as supplemental data.
43
Leasing and Sales Data

Data on Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District leasing rates and sales volume collected through the
business survey provides key economic data that can be shared with potential business prospects and investors
considering opportunities in the District. The data should also be used as a benchmark to measure changes and
progress stemming from District enhancement and economic development initiatives.
Survey results indicate that annual rent per square foot expenses for ground level commercial spaces in the District
tend to be concentrated in a range of $6 to $10 per square foot, not including utilities. Based on a survey sample of 20
businesses reporting by subjective calculations, median annual rents are estimated to lie in a range $8 to $10 per
square foot, and average annual rental rates are estimated to range from about $8.10 to $10.85 per square foot, not
including utilities. Just three survey respondents reported an annual rate of $12 or more per square foot.
What is your annual rent per square foot expense? ([Monthly Rent x 12] Square Feet Occupied)
Response
Count
Percentage
A.
Less than $6 per square foot
10.7%
B.
$6 to $8 per square foot
17.9%
C.
25.0%
D.
7.1%
E.
3.6%
F.
3.6%
G.
$20+ per square foot
3.6%
H.
Not Applicable
28.6%
28
100.0%
TOTAL
Survey results show that annual sales per square foot are concentrated in a range less than $50 to $150 per square
foot, with 10 businesses (67% of respondents, not including Not Applicable respondents) reporting sales figures
within that range. The total responding sample reported figures spanning the range of less than $50 to more than $300
per square foot. Based on the limited survey sample and by subjective calculations, median annual sales per square
foot are estimated in a range of $100 to $150 per square foot, and average annual sales per square foot for all business
types reporting are estimated at approximately $157 per square foot. The figures appear comparatively low based on
industry thresholds and it is possible that a broader survey sample could yield a different result.
What is your annual sales volume per square foot? (Gross Annual Sales/Revenues Square Feet Occupied)
Response
Count
Percentage
A.
Less than $50 per square foot
15.4%
B.
11.5%
C.
11.5%
D.
3.8%
E.
3.8%
F.
0.0%
G.
$300+ per square foot
11.5%
H.
Not Applicable
11
42.3%
26
100.0%
TOTAL
44
Opportunities
Retail Uses
Market research findings provide general direction for various retail business types and merchandise lines that could be
prime candidates and appropriate for expansion and recruitment in the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street
District.
Analysis of ESRI retail data and sales surplus & leakage estimates reveals areas of retail strength, and other areas that
might represent prime opportunities for expansion and/or complementary product and service lines. Retail categories
and subcategories which, based strictly on the analysis of ESRI Retail MarketPlace report data and calculated sales
surplus/leakage factors, appear to be areas of relative strength in the District and surrounding area and which could
offer opportunities for expansion and complementary products and services lines include:
Special Food Services
Beer, Wine and Liquor Stores
Drinking Places (Alcoholic Beverages)
Used Merchandise Stores
Furniture Stores
Office Supplies, Stationery and Gift Stores
Home Furnishings Stores
Health & Personal Care Stores
Full-Service Restaurants
Electronics & Appliance Stores
Retail categories, subcategories and product lines which, based solely on the analysis of ESRI data, might represent
some of the best and most immediate opportunities for growth and expansion based on underperformance include:
Clothing and Clothing Accessories Stores
Book, Periodical and Music Stores
General Merchandise Stores
Florists
Motor Vehicle & Parts Dealers
Limited-Service Eating Places
Sporting Goods/Hobby/Musical Instruments
Grocery Stores
Specialty Food Stores
Retail MarketPlace report data and findings provide a good starting point for the design of an effective, market-driven
business development strategy for the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District. Still, retail categories and
subcategories showing potential for expansion and growth based on ESRI data must be further analyzed and, with the
contribution of local input and expertise, interpreted to better understand the local and regional conditions and factors
that could be driving the results and possible implications for the district.
Identified areas of retail strength must also be further assessed to better understand and identify potential
opportunities for complementary businesses and uses; opportunities for existing business to expand or introduce new
product and service lines; potential opportunities for location-neutral businesses and enterprises; and potential
business niche/clustering opportunities that capitalize upon existing retail sector strengths, retail and non-retail
anchors, and area attractions.
45
Business types and merchandise lines that might be considered primary targets and candidates for expansion and
recruitment, based on the Districts existing business mix, trends in the marketplace and related findings from local
input, consumer and business surveys, and ESRI retail data and the accompanying sales surplus & leakage analysis
performed as part of this study include:
Food Services & Drinking Places (NAICS 722)
Study Area Sales Surplus/(Leakage) Estimates
722: Food Services & Drinking Places
Indicates targeted subcategory/lines
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
$2,383,404
$5,128,329
$4,047,874
$1,249,034
$2,576,863
$1,131,432
($1,019,571)
($2,669,414)
($2,146,414)
$1,562,208
$3,044,787
$1,157,816
$591,734
$2,176,093
$3,905,041
Survey Frequency
Intercept
Online
Business
Count Percentage
14 26.4%
26 13.2%
13 39.4%
Notes:
The District has or is gaining a reputation, and displays destination-oriented qualities, characteristics and features, as a
destination for eating, drinking and entertainment. Concepts would be compatible and complementary to existing category
entries and might include additional ethnic specialties. Opportunities and concepts for limited-service eating establishments
might cater to the District/Downtown employee populations and feature order-ahead, pick-up, delivery and catering
services. Evening and nighttime establishments might feature various genres of music and venues for local artists. Dcor
and themes might feature local art, history and heritage.
Miscellaneous Store Retailers (NAICS 453)

453: Miscellaneous Store Retailers
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
$190,679
$1,000,326
$431,889
4531: Florists
($20,959)
($67,198)
($260,413)
4532: Office Supplies, Stationery, and Gifts
$141,060
$139,168
($311,830)
$50,767
$157,452
$26,773
4539: Other Miscellaneous Store Retailers
$19,811
$770,904
$977,359
Survey Frequency
Intercept
Online
Business
Count Percentage
1 1.9%
2 1.0%
11 33.3%
Notes:
Consumer survey results indicate a support for certain subcategories, and generalized responses indicating a preference
for general retail and/or unspecified boutique and specialty shops, suggest this category should be targeted for
expansion and recruitment. Used quality home furnishings, collectible and quality clothing stores, specializing in lines such
as maternity wear, childrens wear, t-shirts, vintage clothing, etc., might offer an opportunity to take advantage of green rewearing/recycling of trends and also help, via more well-defined niches, to fill demand in the Clothing & Clothing
Accessories and General Merchandise categories. Cards, Gifts & Stationery lines might help to fill demand for specialty and
boutique retailers and might incorporate handcrafted products and art.
46
Food & Beverage Stores (NAICS 445)

0.5 Mile
445: Food & Beverage Stores

1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
($15,512)
$10,763,343
$64,516,880
($138,716)
$10,011,388
$63,569,078
($174)
$115,285
$540,785
$123,378
$636,670
$407,017
Survey Frequency
Intercept
Online
Business
Count Percentage
9 17.0%
4 2.0%
6 18.2%
Notes:
Survey results show demand in the Food & Beverage Stores category and subcategories. The best and most immediate
opportunities may revolve around the continued expansion of an evolving specialty foods cluster that capitalizes on the
foodies trend, NewBo Market (and potential incubator graduates), and other recent District entries. Other concepts could
include a smaller-scale market carrying limited lines of staple grocery items and prepared foods, and emphasizing select
lines of specialty foods (i.e., craft beverages and wines, organic and natural foods, etc.) with appeal for both the local
residential market and District visitors. Display production kitchens and confectionery-oriented themes and concepts should
be encouraged to build on the fun and entertaining qualities of the district.
Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book and Music Stores (NAICS 451)

451: Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book, and Music Stores
0.5 Mile
1.0 Mile
2.0 Miles
($106,052)
$83,348
($412,731)
4511: Sporting Goods/Hobby/Musical Instmts
($82,379)
$183,597
$43,872
4512: Book, Periodical, and Music Stores
($23,674)
($100,249)
($456,603)
Survey Frequency
Intercept
Online
Business
Count Percentage
4 7.6%
3 1.5%
3 9.1%
Notes:
The most immediate opportunities might be focused in hobby, arts & crafts related merchandise lines and galley-style uses
to capitalize upon the history, arts & culture and environment recognized by survey respondents; the growing arts
movement; and arts & culture oriented uses and attractions. Expressed demand for arts, hobbies and crafts-related
businesses, uses and lines might provide opportunities for new entries, or opportunities for existing businesses and
attractions to expand or add complementary merchandise lines. Opportunities in the sporting goods category would likely
capitalize on the health and fitness movement (and might include health and fitness services and facilities) and the existing
and expanding trail systems (i.e., bicycles rentals, sales and service and bicycling, running and walking gear). Music
and musical instrument product lines would capitalize on the Districts existing attractions and venues and its growing
reputation as a destination and venue for a variety of live performances and entertainment. Product lines offered in tandem
with services and performances (i.e., music lessons, voice lessons, acting lessons, open mic events, storytelling events,
etc.) might offer the best opportunities for sustaining Music and Musical Instruments-related entries.
47
Office and Service Uses

The office and services sectors play an important role in generating consistent traffic for the District. Trends and
projections pointing to growth in population and the number of households in the area surrounding the District and the
Cedar Rapids region through 2016 will likely bring increases demand for services. So, too, certain trends could also
serve to essentially change the behavior of the market and generate demand for additional office and service uses
including:
Continued transition to a service-oriented society.
Increasing demand for personal care and medical services related to the Graying of America
phenomenon.
An increase in both the live here and work here populations that could result in the long-term from
new development and the adaptive re-use of District and downtown commercial buildings for residential
and office uses.
The Districts appeal to office and service businesses that will continue to grow as success is realized from
Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District enhancement efforts and the possibility that existing
office and service businesses currently located in other parts of the community and region will seek to
relocate in the District.
Office and services uses in the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District already play an important role in the
districts economy and sense of vitality and, predictably, will continue to do so in the future. These uses should
continue to be encouraged to locate within the District and, where appropriate and applicable, Main Street and
community development partners should work to locate these uses in buildings and spaces that are conducive to
maintaining a strong sense of retail vibrancy throughout the District.
Housing
Consumer survey results lend support for prospects to develop new housing of various styles in the Czech Village / New
Bohemia Main Street District. In all, 214 consumer survey respondents (60%) indicated Yes or Maybe when asked if
they would consider living in the District.
Would you live in the District?
Consider living in District
Intercept Sample
Online Sample
Total Sample
A. Yes
22
22.9%
83
31.8%
105
29.4%
B. Maybe
26
27.1%
83
31.8%
109
30.5%
C. No
48
50.0%
95
36.4%
143
40.1%
96
100.0%
261
100.0%
357
100.0%
Total
Those indicating that they would consider living in the District with a yes or maybe responses expressed interest in
a variety of housing styles and in both rental and owned units. Of those who expressed interest in living in the District,
approximately 35% indicated they would like to rent and 67% would like to buy. Loft and condo units were the most
popular styles, selected by 54% and 44% of the responding survey sample, respectively.
Would you like to:
Rent or Buy
Intercept Sample
Online Sample
Total Sample
A. Rent
13
29.5%
61
36.7%
74
35.2%
B. Buy
31
70.5%
110
66.3%
141
67.1%
Data Note (OS): Multiple responses allowed. OS and Total percentages based responding sample and do not total 100%.
48
What kind of housing would you look for?

Housing options considered
Intercept Sample
Online Sample
Total Sample
A.
Apartment
13
30.2%
49
29.5%
62
29.7%
B.
Loft
24
55.8%
89
53.6%
113
54.1%
C.
Condo
22
51.2%
70
42.2%
92
44.0%
D.
Townhouse
12
27.9%
51
30.7%
63
30.1%
E.
Single-family detached
13
30.2%
64
38.6%
77
36.8%
F.
Senior housing
7.0%
1.8%
2.9%
Data Note: Multiple responses allowed. Percentages based responding sample. Percentages do not total 100%.
The trends and overwhelming interest expressed by consumer survey respondents appear to bode well for the
development and expansion of housing options in the District. The best prospects for new District housing might be
directed toward the development of units that are quite different from typical cookie-cutter housing styles and
options including styles that might take advantage of the unordinary dimensions, layouts and materials found in the
upper levels of District commercial buildings to create distinguishable and even funky living and/or live & work
spaces; and for higher-density condo, townhouse and mixed-use development at potential (and appropriate)
redevelopment sites in the District and surrounding area.
Isolated demographic data for respondents indicating interest with a yes or maybe responses when asked if they
would live in the District is displayed in the following tables and can be helpful in developing a profile for the current
and prospective Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District housing market.
Demographic Profile for Potential Downtown Housing Market
Gender of Yes and Maybe respondents asked, Would you live in the District?
Gender
Intercept Survey
Online Survey
Total Sample
A. Female
29
60.4%
95
57.9%
124
58.5%
B. Male
19
39.6%
69
42.1%
88
41.5%
48
100.0%
164
100.0%
212
100.0%
Total
Age of Yes and Maybe respondents asked, Would you live in the District?
Intercept Sample - Age
Intercept Survey
Online Survey - Age
Total Sample
A. Less than 20 years
4.2%
A. Under 18
17
10.4%
B. 20 to 24
12.5%
B. 19 to 25
19
11.6%
C. 25 to 34
15
31.3%
C. 26 to 35
61
37.2%
D. 35 to 44
10.4%
D. 36 to 45
29
17.7%
E. 45 to 54
16.7%
E. 46 to 55
17
10.4%
F. 55 to 64
16.7%
F. 56 to 65
20
12.2%
G. 65 to 74
6.3%
0.6%
H. 75 or older
2.1%
48
100.0%
164
100.0%
Total Intercept Sample
G. 66+
Total Online Sample
49
Household Size of Yes and Maybe respondents asked, Would you live in the District?
Household Size
Intercept Survey
A.
10
21.3%
B.
19
40.4%
C.
8.5%
D.
11
23.4%
E.
6.4%
F.
6 or more
0.0%
47
100.0%
Total
Presence of Chidren of Yes and Maybe respondents asked, Would you live in the District?
Children in Household?
Online Survey
A.
Yes*
66
40.5%
B.
No
97
59.5%
163
100.0%
Total
* Age of Chidren of Yes and Maybe respondents asked, Would you live in the District?
Age of Children?
A. 0 5
B. 6 10
C. 11 18
D. 18+
Online Survey
27
12
15
30
40.9%
18.2%
22.7%
45.5%
Data Note: Percentages based on responding sample indicating children present (133). Percentages do not total 100%.
Estimated Gross Household Income of Yes and Maybe respondents asked, Would you live in the District?
Household Income
Intercept Survey
A.
Less than $15,000
11.1%
B.
$15,000 to $24,999
4.4%
C.
$25,000 to $34,999
13.3%
D.
$35,000 to $49,999
15.6%
E.
$50,000 to $74,999
10
22.2%
F.
$75,000 to $99,999
15.6%
G.
$100,000 to $149,999
11.1%
H.
$150,000 to $199,999
2.2%
I.
$200,000 and greater
4.4%
45
100.0%
Total
50
First Steps Implementation Strategy

The Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District Market Study provides a snapshot of the District today and
explores opportunities for the future. The time frame for planning and implementing projects based on findings and
opportunities identified as part of this study could extend up to ten years or even more.
Because commercial business district redevelopment occurs within a dynamic environment, no set of specific
implementation steps can remain valid for such a long time. Even in the short term, changing economic, social,
political and cultural conditions may dictate a different sequence of events. Some projects might be implemented
earlier if the right set of opportunities present themselves, or the community may determine that a project should be
tabled as new opportunities emerge and others take priority. Because of these limitations, an implementation strategy
can only be a general guide for implementing key aspects of the study.
The First Steps Implementation Strategy summarizes and prioritizes projects and activities that, undertaken as part of a
comprehensive and incremental approach to the Districts enhancement, will advance long-term goals for Cedar
Rapids Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District.
Key market study findings and implications are summarized and potential Action Steps are organized in the areas of
Business Improvement, Promotion, Design and Organization a format consistent with the Czech Village / New
Bohemia Main Street District organizations structure and its 4-point approach. By the very nature of the market study,
implementation strategy actions are primarily focused in the areas of business improvement and promotion.
The list of potential projects and actions contained in this summary report is neither exhaustive nor exclusive. In fact,
potential projects and actions compiled in the following tables might quite simply resemble the obvious. Realistically,
the notion of compiling a comprehensive Implementation Strategy based on the mere analysis of market data and a
single site visit is impractical. The suggestions and recommendations for action appearing here, then, should be viewed
in that context and considered as a starting point for the development of a more comprehensive and meaningful
strategy that is the product of market analysis findings, local knowledge, and the continued participation of Czech
Village / New Bohemia Main Street District organization staff and volunteers, local business persons, community
leaders and residents working together.
Priority Action Steps Organization

Action Description
Priority Level
Continue to encourage participation in the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District
strategy plan process and use information and direction gained from the market study,
where applicable and appropriate, to refine evolving strategies and concepts, and to fine
tune and prioritize organization operations and advocacy efforts.
Work with Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District committees to disseminate the
findings and proposed projects related to this study, to identify project funding needs,
and to pursue funding sources and implement projects adopted as a result of this study
Work with committees to review volunteer requirements, identify potential sources for
volunteers, and assist the committees in the recruitment and training of volunteers
necessary to implement projects adopted as a result of this study
Work to involve residents, business persons, elected officials, community leaders and
representatives from other community organizations in all phases of District planning,
implementation and management
Maintain an aggressive, ongoing public relations program to publicize plans, projects and
results stemming from the market study, the strategy plan, and the annual work plan.
Priority Level Key:

0 = Immediate and/or Ongoing
1 = Within 1 Year
2 = Within 2 Years
3 = Within 3 Years
51
Business Improvement Action Steps

Action Description
Priority Level
Distribute the four-page summary version of the market study to existing District business
and property owners, and to potential business prospects and investors.
Update and maintain a District property and business inventory; maintain a current list of
available properties and businesses and distribute the list to area realtors and brokers as
changes occur.
Using information compiled as part of this market study, collect, maintain and track
information on District real estate, market conditions and trends; and repeat the business
survey on an annual or bi-annual basis and track economic trends in the District.
Work in partnership with the City of Cedar Rapids and other community & economic
development organizations as part of the strategy plan process and on an ongoing basis
to assess land use plans and to promote and pursue appropriate redevelopment
opportunities; consider opportunities for, and the appropriateness of, higher-density mixeduse development and other housing styles as a means of growing the areas residential
market and population. Devise and update a business clustering strategy which is
compatible with resulting land use plans and strategies, which serves to build on existing
and evolving niches, and which provides guidance for the preferred placement of business
types and uses targeted for expansion and recruitment.
Augment market study data and information with traffic and/or pedestrian counts,
collected at various locations and times throughout the year, to benchmark and track
activity in the District; and re-administer the consumer intercept survey, possibly using a
condensed version of the questionnaire and conducted semi-annually and/or during select
events, to track District tourism trends and perspectives of various District audiences.
Devise fact sheets or similar written materials that can be readily updated to describe and
promote available business programs and incentives, such as faade design assistance,
faade improvement loans and grants, management and marketing consultations, and
property and client referrals.
Organize and maintain a programmed Business Visitation Program as part of an ongoing

business assistance program that engages District businesses, promotes available resources,
facilitates the delivery of business assistance resources, and helps to identify business
expansion candidates.
Continue to develop business promotional materials and to enhance the crmainstreet.org

website as a tool for passive and active recruitment of targeted business prospects.
Identify and assist businesses that may be candidates for expansion based on product lines
identified in the market study and interest discovered through the Business Visitation
Program.
10
Identify and actively recruit specific business types and prospects based on business types
identified in the market study and the availability of appropriate spaces.
11
Conduct field trips to communities and commercial businesses districts displaying similar
characteristics and market demographics to examine the business mix and make contact
with potential business expansion candidates.
12
Facilitate cooperative advertising and marketing efforts that involve property owners and
agents to market available space and potential infill and redevelopment opportunities.
13
Identify and assist businesses in succession planning by using resources and facilitating
access to assistance available through Main Street Iowa and other local, regional and state
resources.
Priority Level Key:

1 = Within 1 Year
2 = Within 2 Years
3 = Within 3 Years
52
Promotion Action Steps

Action Description
Priority Level
Study promotion and marketing-related information and findings resulting from the market
study and assess events and marketing activities for consistency and effectiveness.
Incorporate buzz words in marketing headlines and messages and use images that
capitalize on those features most liked and identifiable with the District.
Continue to work closely with local, regional and state tourism organizations to promote
the District as a visitor attraction; work with the Business Improvement Committee to track
tourism-related activity and trends.
Review the existing events calendar. Work and support efforts to enhance and maintain
existing District festivals and events and to introduce new events and activities or new
event components which are consistent with District marketing strategies.
Continue to freshen and maintain feature content for the crmainstreet.org website and to
share links and content with other community and visitor-oriented websites and social
media applications.
Build on the Districts Iowa Cultural District designation, through business community
cooperative advertising, cross-marketing, and internet marketing efforts, in an ongoing
effort to enhance awareness of the District as a destination for culture and entertainment.
Create/update and distribute print and/or online general and targeted business guides (i.e.,
Shopping & Dining Guide, Entertainment & Sights, etc.), to capitalize on existing and
evolving business clusters and to enhance awareness of available products and services.
Support, promote and facilitate District cooperative advertising, cross-marketing, and

Internet and social media marketing efforts.
Design Action Steps

Action
Description
Priority Level
Work with the City to ensure adequate and proper maintenance of the Districts
streetscape, furnishings and public spaces; use input and direction from survey results
to address potential maintenance needs and problem properties.
Continue efforts to incorporate pedestrian-oriented and intermodal transportation

features in the design and implementation of future District improvements.
Address parking issues in an attempt to best meet the needs of the Districts many users
(customers, residents, visitors, employees, etc.); focus first on the management of the
existing parking supply (i.e., time limits, signage, shared parking opportunities, etc.).
Maintain ongoing historic preservation education efforts designed to enhance the

communitys awareness of, and appreciation for, the preservation of downtown historic
architecture and resources. Share results of surveys regarding the perspectives of
consumers and business owners as a step toward aligning viewpoints and values related
to the historic and cultural features of the District.
Assemble, package and promote available incentives and District building improvement
assistance programs. Continue to promote assistance available from and through Main
Street Iowa, especially design assistance available to owners contemplating changes
and improvements to District buildings.
Continue to work with the City and other organizations as part of the strategy plan
process and beyond to integrate and maximize natural resources and features as
part of the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District experience.
Priority Level Key:

1 = Within 1 Year
2 = Within 2 Years
3 = Within 3 Years
53
Conclusion
For Cedar Rapids and the Czech Village / New Bohemia
Main Street District organization, the completion of this
market study is not an end but rather the beginning of a
new phase in the communitys Main Street District
enhancement initiative.
This summary report serves to highlight only a small
sample of the knowledge and direction that can be
synthesized from analysis of data collected during the
market analysis process. Similarly, the implementation
strategy outlined in the document is only a starting point
for a more comprehensive slate of projects that is likely
to emerge as local leaders continue to study the market.
As the Czech Village / New Bohemia Main Street District
organization moves forward it must continue to involve
local community leaders, business persons and residents
in efforts to analyze and interpret the information
collected through the market analysis process in order to
develop a complete understanding of the findings and
results and the implications for the District. The
ensuing process should seek to dig deep into the
results and their meanings and to incorporate local
knowledge into the analysis and interpretation of the
studys findings. Such a process will serve to aid in the
development and implementation of strategies that are
both market-driven and intrinsic to the communitys
goals and aspirations for the District.
Indeed, the detailed market analysis process
orchestrated to date, along with the current, highly
public strategy plan process, may be, in and of itself, one
of the most important results to emerge. While the
process has served to help identify present-day priorities,
existing and looming challenges, and immediate and
emerging opportunities, it can not, and does not pretend
to, anticipate tomorrows priorities, next years
unexpected challenges, or exciting and unanticipated
opportunities still over the horizon.
The diligent efforts undertaken by Czech Village / New
Bohemia Main Street District organization staff and
volunteers to gather the input, to study the data, and to
initiate the development of a market-driven
implementation strategy have prepared the organization
and the community well by providing a public framework
and a strong basis upon which the community can plan
and act for the future. It is within this framework that the
community will continue to marshal the resources and
knowledge necessary to meet new challenges and to
capitalize upon fresh opportunities.
54
City of
CEDAR RAPIDS
NEIGHBORHOOD
PLANNING PROCESS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
JLG Architects Stanley Consultants JMS Communications & Research Conservation
Design Forum Parsons Brinckerhoff ARUP Anderson-Bogert Institute of Cultural Affairs
September 2009
Many Cedar Rapids neighborhoods are in a

Many Cedar Rapids neighborhoods are in a unique
unique position to make drastic improvements
position to make dramatic improvements as the city
as Cedar Rapids plans, reinvests and rebuilds
plans, reinvests and rebuilds from the 2008 flood.
from the flood. These plans and reinvestments
These plans and reinvestment strategies will rewill impact the entire city and all neighborshape the whole city. All neighborhood residents
hood residents were encouraged to actively
were encouraged to participate in the process.
participate.
This letter is to recognize all those who participated in the Neighborhood Planning Process
(NPP) and made it successful. A critical element in disaster recovery is to create a plan to
follow. Between the months of January and May 2009, over 1,200 of the Citys residents
dedicated 6,000 hours of their time planning for their kids and their kids kids futures; some,
while still rebuilding from the flood. Over 70 members of the Citys staff, from administrative
assistants to department directors, volunteered their weekends and evenings to facilitate
discussions and organize the meetings. I would like to thank all of you who took the time to
make such an incredible contribution to the future of our City.
The City of Cedar Rapids began the Neighborhood Planning Process in January 2009
immediately following a comprehensive planning process for a new flood management strategy.
Both planning processes were a result of the record flooding that occurred in June 2008. The
NPP was designed based on benchmark communities recognized for their high quality
neighborhood planning activities and was tailored to incorporate elements specific to Cedar
Rapids unique situation. Under normal circumstances, a community commits to creating one
neighborhood plan in a four to six month period. The NPP, through the dedication of residents
and staff, was able to create a plan for 10 neighborhoods in four short months. The process
ensured transparency and secured broad public participation in the development of the
framework plan for reinvestment. A citizen-led Steering Committee was appointed to ensure the
process remained focused on the goals that were originally established. By the end of the NPP,
the Community had created a framework plan for reinvestment and action steps to accomplish
this plan that will be implemented over the next 10 to 15 years.
Recovering from a natural disaster of the magnitude experienced by the City of Cedar Rapids
and its residents is neither a quick or easy process. However, Cedar Rapids residents have
shown their dedication to a successful future for the City through the tireless effort in the
creation of this plan. We thank all of those who helped to ensure a great future for our City.
Sincerely,
Kay Halloran, Mayor

City of Cedar Rapids
Office of the Cedar Rapids Mayor and City Council

City Hall 3851 River Ridge Drive NE Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402 (319) 286-5051 FAX (319) 286-5144
TA BLE O F CONTENTS
The Neighborhood Planning Process
Framework Plan
City Vision and Purpose of the Plan
Public Participation Timeline and Key to Specific Content
Organization of the Neighborhood Planning Process
City-wide Plans
Transportation and Connectivity
11
Open Space and Recreation
13
Arts and Culture
15
Neighborhood Reinvestment
17
Business Reinvestment
19
Implementation Strategy
21
Neighborhood Planning Process Framework Map
25
The Neighborhood
Planning Process
Framework Plan
Cedar Rapids Neighborhood Planning Process
THE NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING PROCESS FRAMEWORK PLAN

City Vision
In June 2008 an extreme flood inundated the City of Cedar
Rapids, cresting nearly 12 feet above the prior flood of record, impacting many neighborhoods and a significant portion of downtown. The flood inundated 10 square miles of the
city, damaged 7,200 parcels, and caused the evacuation of
20,000 people. Since that time, the City and its citizens have
mobilized to create a plan for reinvestment and recovery. At
the heart of the planning process is a desire to ensure that
Cedar Rapids will not only recover from the flood and be better,
but greater.
The Citys vision statement underscores the unique nature of
the Neighborhood Planning Process that brought the community together:
Cedar Rapids is a vibrant urban hometowna

beacon for people and businesses invested
in building a greater community for the next
generation.
This document describes the efforts of the City of Cedar Rapids,
its residents and its business people, to craft a vision for neighborhood reinvestment following the flood and a plan to make
this vision possible.
Purpose of the Plan
Building
Community
Governance
Building an
Action Plan
Building an
Evaluation
Framework
Flood recovery planning began in June 2008 to create a

Framework Plan for Reinvestment and Revitalization.
Since the adoption of the plan in November 2008, the fourmonth Neighborhood Planning Process (NPP) has built on
the Reinvestment and Revitalization Plan by developing Area
Plans and Action Plans for each of the flood-impacted neighborhoods. The process grouped the ten flood-affected neighborhoods by geographical area: North, Central, and South. The
objective of delineating the three overlapping areas was to keep
the river as the heart of the community, accommodate shared
interests, and effectively coordinate a cohesive plan. The goal
of the process was to:
Promote leadership and neighborhood governance:

Encourage leadership building and improved communication between the City and community to create stronger
neighborhoods
Establish Area Plans and Action Plans for each neighborhood

(North, Central, South): Create a detailed set of actions for
reinvesting in our neighborhoods and meeting our vision
Develop community goals and an evaluation framework:

Create a framework for evaluating proposals and plans to ensure adherence to community goals
Ultimately, these plans will guide the City and its partners in
reinvestment over the next ten to fifteen years.
Introduction
Public Participation Timeline

City-wide Workshops and Area Meetings brought the community together to create the Framework Plan
Kick-off
th
January 31
st
Sustainability
Great Neighborhoods
Community Goals
Visual Preferences
Community
Governance
Barriers to Housing
Area Meeting 1
th
February 10
Area Meeting 2
February 24th
Neighborhood
Opportunities
Confirmation of
Opportunities
Barriers to
Opportunities
Evaluation Criteria
To introduce the
Neighborhood
Planning Process,
identify desired goals
and outcomes, and to
discuss how planning
for sustainability can
benefit Cedar Rapids.
To share and discuss

ideas about rebuilding
each neighborhood;
learn about neighborhood connectivity and
housing options and
determine the opportunities and constraints of rebuilding
each neighborhood.
To focus on key characteristics of each

area, and identify assets and opportunities
for improvements in
each neighborhood.
To establish evaluation criteria for the

reinvestment plan and
to discuss neighborhood connectivity,
open space, housing
and business revitalization expectations.
COMMUNITY GOALS
ELEMENTS OF A GREAT
NEIGHBORHOOD
ASSETS AND OPPORTUNITIES
CONFIRMATION OF OPPORTUNITIES
CON CEPT S
PURPOSE
TOP I CS
January 10
Workshop 1
Workshop 2
st
March 21
Transportation
Scenarios
Evaluation Criteria
Area Meeting 3
March 31
st
Scenario Evaluation
Preferred Scenarios
Workshop 3
th
Area Meeting 4
May 5th
April 25
Preferred
Framework
Action Plan
Confirmation
Action Plan
Community
Governance
To focus on key characteristics of each

area, identify assets
and opportunities
for improvements in
each neighborhood,
discuss scenarios for
future development
and determine evaluation criteria to assess
them.
To evaluate scenarios
developed using sustainbility best practices and feedback on
the previous opportunities and scenarios.
Preferred scenarios
were refined for each
area based on feedback from the revised
scenarios.
To review the preferred framework plan

and introduce urban
design principles and
the action plan.
To review feedback
and confirm the final
framework plan;
introduce the action plan concept
as a draft; review
the Neighborhood
Planning Process and
its results; and provide an overview of
the next steps.
REINVESTMENT SCENARIOS
REFINED AREA-SPECIFIC
SCENARIOS
PREFERRED PLAN AND

URBAN DESIGN PRINCIPLES
INITIATIVES AND
ACTION ITEMS
Organization of the Neighborhood Planning Process

1 GOALS Identification of Issues
On January 10th and 31st, the community participated in a series of goal setting exercises to identify and confirm the issues
for the plan to address. Eleven common goals were identified
and then synthesized into the five key elements of a great neighborhood, which served to guide the Neighborhood Planning
Process. These key elements are Sustainability, Connectivity,
Identity, Diversity, and Vibrant Centers.
SUSTAINABILITY* (FAIRVIEW, PA)
CONNECTIVITY (CLEVELAND, OH)
IDENTITY (GREENVILLE, SC)
DIVERSITY (INDIANAPOLIS, IN)
VIBRANT CENTERS (BOSTON, MA)
2 IDEAS and Opportunities

On February 10th and 24th the community explored the assets and opportunities for change in their neighborhoods. They
agreed that the final plan should build on community strengths,
including distinctive people and places, a diversity of businesses, the family-friendly character of the neighborhoods and a
variety of open spaces.
Evaluation Criteria were then established: The March 21st presentation highlighted planning best practices as a means
to develop evaluation criteria. These criteria would allow
the community to assess how
scenarios fulfilled the stated
goals.
Evaluation Criteria Established

On February 24th, evaluation criteria were established.
Evaluation criteria are a benchmark or standard against
which the community can measure future proposals for
development. Building upon the Citys five keys to successful development, the criteria that will be used to evaluate future projects was created from a combination of
the communitys goals, area feedback priorities, and elements of great neighborhoods. The community will use the
evaluation criteria to assess the benefits and challenges
associated with future projects.
COMMUNITY GOALS
AREA FEEDBACK
PRIORITIES
Evaluation
Criteria
ELEMENTS OF GREAT
NEIGHBORHOODS
*SUSTAINABILITY - WIND TURBINES AT SOMERSET WIND FARM, EXELON COMMUNITY ENERGY, FAIRVIEW, PA, BY JEFF KUBINA; USED UNDER A CREATIVE
COMMONS LICENSE, ACCESSED ON FLICKR JUNE 3, 2009. HTTP://WWW.FLICKR.COM/PHOTOS/KUBINA/2890670927/SIZES/L/IN/SET-72157607531460119/
3 SCENARIOS Combinations of Ideas

On March 21st, three alternative scenarios were introduced that
explored different ways to meet the Community Goals. These
scenarios tested how and where to focus reinvestment along
the river, strengthen the connections between neighborhoods
and reinforce connections across the River.
On March 31st refined scenarios were presented that
integrated community feedback, market projections and
sustainability best practices
for each area. On March 31st,
the community applied the
evaluation criteria to assess
scenarios and their adherence to community goals.
4 AREA PLAN Preferred Scenario

On April 25th, residents selected a preferred alternative that
merged the strongest elements of each scenario to create a
unified vision for future reinvestment. With a roadmap for the
future, the community sat down once more to outline which actions would be necessary to bring their vision to life.
SCENARIO A
SCENARIO C
SCENARIO B
5 ACTION PLAN Prioritized Actions and Funding

On May 5th, members of the community reviewed the final Area
Plans and discussed implementation of the Action Plan. The
Action Plan is a living document that will adapt over time for the
changing needs of the community, and will require the cooperation of public agencies, residents and businesses. It is organized by the five over-arching plan elements and describes how
action items will support each
of the goals and initiatives.
On May 13th, the City Council
approved the Area Plans
and supporting Action Plan,
marking the beginning of a
new phase in Cedar Rapids
history.
TRANSPORTATION AND CONNECTIVITY
OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION
ARTS AND CULTURE
BUSINESS REINVESTMENT (PORTLAND, OR)
HOUSING REINVESTMENT (SOUTHWOOD, FL)
Introduction
I-380
Edgewood Rd
Ellis
Park
O Avenue
Time
Check
Downtown
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F Avenue
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New
Bohemia
Av
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5 Avenue
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Av
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Czech
Village
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16 Avenue
6th Street
St
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Cedar Valley/
Rompot
NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING PROCESS FRAMEWORK PLAN

0
GREENWAY
EXISTING PARK
ART, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY ASSETS

MEDICAL DISTRICT
BUSINESS REINVESTMENT
COMMUNITY LANDMARK
LEVEE
MIXED-USE REINVESTMENT
ACTIVITY CENTER/BUILDING PRESENCE
500
2,500
HOUSING REINVESTMENT
FLOOD WALL
C IT Y WIDE PL ANS
A summary of the Framework Plan by area
Collectively, the three Area PlansNorth, Central and South

embody a compelling vision for reinvestment and recovery
in Cedar Rapids over the next fifteen years. They envision a
sustainable Cedar Rapids characterized by strong pedestrian,
transit and vehicular connections between downtown, the
neighborhoods and the Cedar River, with a network of diverse
open spaces in between. The Plans also envision reconstructed
neighborhoods that promote diversity and vibrancy, and provide a variety of housing types for a range of ages. Finally, they
envision a City that provides a wide range of economic opportunity for its residents, as well as thriving arts, culture and entertainment destinations.
These 11 goals were grouped into five overarching categories

the plan elements listed belowto be used to support the
community goals throughout the process.
The following section outlines the goals and the initiatives for
each of the five major plan elements shown at right. The goals
emphasize the high-level vision for the plan, while the initiatives
represent tangible steps which the City and the community can
take to realize these goals.
Ultimately, successful reinvestment will depend on the continued

collaboration of public and private sectors and the community,
and will meet the Citys five keys to successful development:
Consistent with Community Goals
Neighborhood Support
Financial Feasibility
Market Feasibility
Experienced Development Team to Implement Projects
Plan Elements
Goals and Evaluation Framework
1.
Goals are general guidelines that direct the long-term vision for
the Cedar Rapids community.
COMMUNITY GOALS
The community and the City worked together to develop the
following goals for the Neighborhood Planning Process:
To create accessible transportation

options

1.
To promote green space as a central

amenity for all residents
2.
To construct sustainable infrastructure
Provide accessible transportation options
Promote green space as a central amenity
Construct sustainable infrastructure
Maintain vibrant neighborhoods
Meet multi-generational needs
Provide affordable housing
Encourage economic vitality
1.
To maintain vibrant neighborhoods
Support art, culture and entertainment opportunities
2.
To meet multi-generational needs
Create exciting downtown destinations
3.
To provide affordable housing
Encourage citizen-directed planning
Uphold economically feasible planning
Arts and Culture

1.
To support art, culture and

entertainment opportunities
2.
To create exciting downtown

destinations
1.
To maintain vibrant neighborhoods
2.
To encourage economic vitality
City-wide Plans
I-380
Edgewood Rd
Ellis
Park
O Avenue
Time
Check
Downtown
8
th
F Avenue
rd
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re
St
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Av
St
nu
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rd
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Av
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E Avenue
St
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Oak Hill
Jackson
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12 t
16 t
Taylor
New
Bohemia
Av
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5 Avenue
Av
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Av
Czech
Village
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16 Avenue
6th Street
St
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Cedar Valley/
Rompot
TRANSPORTATION AND CONNECTIVITY

0
STREET IMPROVEMENTS
10
BIKE ROUTE
TRAIL
NEW TRAIL
REINVESTMENT AREA
PARKS
500
2,500

Goals
1.
Create accessible transportation options
Initiatives
Enhance the pedestrian environment through active and pleasant building storefronts as well as streetscape improvements
such as complete street standards and street amenities such as
trees, signage and lighting.
Increase use of public transit by making bus service more accessible and comfortableparticularly by improving bus routes,
schedules and amenitiesand by creating an Intermodal
Transportation Facility (ITF) downtown. Change the public
mindset through education about transit and study other future
mass transit options such as commuter rail.
Relieve circulation challenges and congestion through improved street connections. Amongst others, this will include
reconnecting Ellis Boulevard and Sixth street, converting
some downtown one-way streets to allow two-way traffic, and
extending Fifth Street across the river toward C Street.
Further study of traffic flows is needed.
Conduct a comprehensive downtown parking management
plan to manage the parking supply, address concerns about
parking needs for all users and the poor condition of the
parkades, and to assess the amount of land dedicated to surface parking.
TRANSIT
CIRCULATOR
ITF
BUS CONNECTION
STOP
STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS (PORTLAND, OR)
CIRCULATION IMPROVEMENTS ARE PROPOSED ON THIRD STREET TO

CONNECT DOWNTOWN TO NEW BOHEMIA
City-wide Plans
11
I-380
Edgewood Rd
Ellis
Park
O Avenue
Time
Check
Downtown
8
th
F Avenue
rd
e
re
St
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Av
St
nu
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rd
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Av
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E Avenue
St
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Oak Hill
Jackson
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12 t
16 t
Taylor
New
Bohemia
Av
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5 Avenue
Av
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Av
Czech
Village
th
16 Avenue
6th Street
St
re
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Cedar Valley/
Rompot
OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION

0
LEVEE
12
BIKE ROUTE
NEW TRAIL
TRAIL
REINVESTMENT AREA
PARKS
500
2,500

Goals
1.
Promote green space as a central amenity for all residents
2.
Construct sustainable infrastructure
Initiatives
Design the greenway and start implementation by acquiring
property and constructing the levee and floodwall.
Prioritize a continuous trail system to stitch together neighborhoods and green spaces. Conduct detailed studies to plan
for trails and bike lanes, and define relevant design standards.
Raise funding for trail implementation and the purchase of amenities such as lighting and benches.
Develop new parks and community facilities to serve the City
residents and the regional population, including new community centers, major regional indoor and outdoor recreation facilities, an amphitheater, as well as continued support for new
neighborhood parks and playgrounds.
LEVEE WALK (INDIANAPOLIS, IN)
Develop a long term comprehensive park strategy by updating the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and by implementing
park projects. Engage the public through collaboration, communication and community volunteer events.
Strategically maintain and improve existing parks with landscaping, restrooms, picnic facilities and parking.
Celebrate the Cedar Rapids community by hosting riverfront
and neighborhood outdoor events throughout the year.
EXTEND AND CONNECT EXISTING TRAILS, LIKE THE ELLIS TRAIL
NATURAL AREAS (ARLINGTON, TX)
COMMUNITY EVENTS (ADDISON, TX)
City-wide Plans
13
I-380
Edgewood Rd
Ellis
Park
O Avenue
Time
Check
Downtown
8
th
F Avenue
rd
e
re
St
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Av
St
nu
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rd
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re
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Av
th
st
E Avenue
St
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nu
nu
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Oak Hill
Jackson
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nu
nu
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12 t
16 t
Taylor
New
Bohemia
Av
e
5 Avenue
Av
e
th
e
Av
Czech
Village
th
16 Avenue
6th Street
St
re
e
t
Cedar Valley/
Rompot
ARTS AND CULTURE

0
ARTS, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY ASSETS

BIKE ROUTE
14
NEW TRAIL
ARTS CORRIDORS
TRAIL
REINVESTMENT AREA
PARKS
500
2,500
Arts and Culture

Goals
1.
Support arts, culture, and entertainment opportunities
2.
3.
Create exciting downtown destinations
Initiatives
Complement the Third Avenue corridor by devoting Third Street

to the community arts and connecting downtown assets to New
Bohemia by building on existing arts programs and encouraging a more grassroots feel of unique galleries, studio spaces,
and eclectic shops.
Ellis Park
Cedar Lake Park
Time Check Park
Greenway
Strengthen Third Avenue as a civic arts corridor capitalizing

on the existing Museum of Art, rehabilitation of the Paramount
Theater, and use the expanded Greene Square Park for a variety of civic events.
Mays Island and

2nd Ave Bridge
Greene Square Park
West Side Park

and Amphitheater
Expand Greene Square Park between Third Avenue and Fifth

Avenue with a complementary civic focus and new development opportunities on the South and Southeast sides.
Reed Park
Sokol Park and
16th Ave Bridge
Greenway
Enhance the New Bohemia historic district and nearby Czech

Village by strengthening bridge connections across the river
and implementing plans for improvements.
Protect the Citys existing community assets through public awareness campaigns, signage and restoration of existing
facilities.
EVENT SPACES THROUGHOUT THE CITY
Plan for new art and cultural events and additional event space
venues for all generations.
ARTS DISTRICT (PORTLAND, OR)
ST. WENCESLAUS WILL BE CONNECTED TO THE NEW BOHEMIA ARTS DISTRICT
City-wide Plans
15
I-380
Edgewood Rd
Ellis
Park
O Avenue
Time
Check
Downtown
8
th
F Avenue
rd
e
re
St
e
Av
St
nu
e
re
rd
e
re
e
Av
th
st
E Avenue
St
e
nu
nu
Oak Hill
Jackson
e
nu
h
12 t
16 t
Taylor
New
Bohemia
Av
e
5 Avenue
nu
th
e
Av
Av
e
th
Czech
Village
th
16 Avenue
6th Street
St
re
e
t
Cedar Valley/
Rompot
NEIGHBORHOOD REINVESTMENT
0
REINVESTMENT AREA
16
PARKS
NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER FOCUS AREA
HOUSING FOCUS AREA
500
2,500
Goals
1.
2.
Meet multi-generational needs
3.
Provide affordable housing
Initiatives
Preserve the existing character of each neighborhood through
housing reinvestment, protection of historic buildings, use of
traditional materials and creation of affordable housing.
Focus housing reinvestment near neighborhood centers including along Ellis Boulevard, Sixth Street in Taylor, Czech
Village, New Bohemia and Sinclair, Third Street and the West
Bank.
Leverage the inherent potential and widespread community
support for infill housing on underutilized land to achieve a
significant residential increase in the Downtown.
Develop a multi-pronged strategy for implementation that is
transparent and communicative, encourages reinvestment and
prioritizes public safety and well being.
PRESERVE THE NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTER ALONG ELLIS BOULEVARD
Create urban design principles that support a diversity of

uses, multi-generational neighborhoods and appropriate character as new development occurs.
Provide incentives for reinvestment that have a demonstrated public purpose by minimizing risk to developers, identifying
funding sources, streamlining the permitting process and balancing neighborhood and developers desires.
REINVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR FLOOD-DAMAGED HOMES
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR NEIGHBORHOODS (SOUTHWOOD, FL)
City-wide Plans
17
I-380
Edgewood Rd
Ellis
Park
O Avenue
Time
Check
Downtown
8
th
F Avenue
rd
e
re
St
e
Av
St
nu
e
re
rd
e
re
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Av
th
st
E Avenue
St
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nu
nu
th
Oak Hill
Jackson
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nu
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12 t
16 t
Taylor
New
Bohemia
Av
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5 Avenue
Av
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Av
Czech
Village
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16 Avenue
6th Street
St
re
e
t
Cedar Valley/
Rompot
BUSINESS REINVESTMENT
0
REINVESTMENT AREA
18
PARKS
BUSINESS FOCUS AREA
HOUSING FOCUS AREA
MEDICAL AREA
500
2,500
Goals
1.
2.
Encourage economic vitality
Initiatives
Strengthen neighborhood centers by promoting a diverse
array of local businesses that would be accessible to all modes
of transportation, and where possible, housed in live-work
mixed-use buildings.
Enrich the Downtown core by introducing active uses along
the Downtown Riverfront and by diversifying the West Bank
with a mix of business uses that complement its residential
character.
Create a cohesive vision for the Medical District by focusing
on the synergies between the existing uses and by encouraging
new development to be pedestrian friendly.
CZECH VILLAGE IS AN EXISTING NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER
Target the development of new specialty venues that draw in

a regional population.
Determine necessary zoning and land use changes and adopt
urban design principles that clarify standards for new and existing businesses, improve the public realm and integrate green
infrastructure.
Provide incentives for reinvestment by minimizing risk to developers, identifying funding sources, streamlining the permitting process, keeping lines of communication open and balancing neighborhood and developers desires.
THE DOWNTOWN CORE FEATURES HIGH RISE COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
MAKE DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR A COMFORTABLE PEDESTRIAN ENVIRONMENT

(PORTLAND, OR)
City-wide Plans
19
Implementation Strategy
The Implementation Strategy for the Neighborhood Planning
Process includes the finalization of the Action Plan, Community
Updates, the ongoing work with the Army Corps of Engineers
on the Flood Management Strategy, the Public Facilities and
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and the advancement of the
Urban Design Principles. Throughout the implementation process, the public will be invited to give input at Open Houses,
some of which are listed below.
The Action Plan

The Neighborhood Reinvestment Plan provided a vision for the
future of the neighborhoods, whereas the Action Plan will continually refine the Area Plan elements into initiatives, and assign
a timeline for implementation.
On May 13th, 2009 the Cedar Rapids City Council unanimously
voted to adopt the Neighborhood Reinvestment Plan. Moving
forward, the refined Action Plan developed by the City and the
community will act as the tool to guide the implementation of
the Neighborhood Reinvestment Plan.
On June 15th, the initial Action Plan was unveiled to the community. The Action Plan will be finalized by City Departments
over the coming months.
The Action Plan includes the following elements:
Overview of Action Plan Elements
Area Plan Elements

... were established during Phase 1 and in Focus Groups.
Initiatives
... were developed from community feedback throughout
the Neighborhood Planning Process (January through
April 2009)
Action Items
... came from community feedback and a brainstorming session on April 25 and May 5, 2009 (a combined
700 ideas were generated); the City has grouped these
ideas and condensed them into action items
Timetable
... is developed by City Departments for the condensed
action items. Timing may be dependent on factors such
as funding or phasing where some actions must occur
before others
Roles
... were gathered from Community input at the April 25
and May 5th work sessions; City Departments will continue to develop the list of roles
List of overall Area Plan Elements
List of Initiatives within each Area Plan Element
List of individual Action Items to achieve Initiatives
Status
Timetable for completion of each action item
Roles and responsibilities for each action item
...will be updated by City Departments on a continual,

on-going basis
Status of each action item
The community provided input on each of these elements, including roles and responsibilities, while the City developed a
timetable for the condensed action items. Timing may be dependent on factors such as funding or phasing where some actions must occur before others. The status of an action item will
be updated by City Departments on an on-going basis.
20
What is an Action Plan?
Action Plan Timeline
An Area Plan provides the overall vision for the future of the
neighborhoods, whereas an Action Plan breaks the Area Plan
elements into a set of initiatives to accomplish community
goals, and assigns a timeline for implementation. The communitys ideas and feedback are summarized into groups and then
into action items.
May 13th, 2009 City Council will consider the extending the
Steering Committee to provide outreach and oversight
June 15th Action Plans publicized online
November 2009 Open house to show progress to date
May 2010 Open house to show progress to date
The Action Plan will be a living document which will constantly

evolve as items are completed or new needs arise. A preliminary plan was ratified at the May 13th presentation to the City
Council.
Community Updates
The community will be invited to participate in regularly scheduled Open Houses on the progress of the Neighborhood
Planning Process and Action Plan.
How ideas are grouped into Action Items

Area Plan Elements
Community-wide
Open House
Community-wide
Open House
Find funding for trails
November 2009
November 2010
Provide safe trails from homes to schools
Status update
Status update
Identify public financing for the trail system
Seed funding for trails
Combined into Action Item:
Create a citywide Comprehensive Trails Plan to

address needs
Implementation
21
Public Facilities and Parks and Recreation

A series of Open Houses are scheduled through the summer
and fall of 2009 to plan for the future of the Citys flood-impacted public facilities as well as the Parks and Recreation System.
The City has combined these public participation processes to
guide the most efficient use of community facilities and parks
and recreation facilities and programs to meet the needs of the
community today and for the next generation.
More than 300 City facilities were damaged in the flood, including many large customer service buildings such as the Veterans
Memorial Building, main library, public works building, central
fire station and the animal control facility. During this series of
Open Houses, residents will be able to examine several options
for rebuilding public facilities.
Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation department needs input to
review its master plan findings to date and assist with making
recommendations for future growth of the parks and recreation
system. The Greenway Master Plan is being developed as a
part of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The public will
envision the Greenway in the context of creating sustainable
open space and recreation in Cedar Rapids. Feedback gathered in the Open Houses will help to refine the action plans
developed during the Neighborhood Planning Process.
VIEW FROM THE LANDFILL, LOOKING NORTH. FUTURE PLANS INCLUDE

CLEANING AND NATURALIZING THE LANDFILL, OR CONVERTING IT TO A
PARK.
Community Facilities and Parks & Recreation

Open Houses
1.
June 23, 2009, Crowne Plaza, 4-7 PM: Overview of

Process, fir public feedback
2.
August 18, 2009, Crowne Plaza, 4-7 PM, and August

19, 11 AM-1 PM: Options for Public Facilities and Parks
and Recreation, for public feedback
3.
October 6, 2009, Crowne Plaza, 4-7 PM, and October

7th, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM: Draft Master Plan, for public
feedback
AS PART OF IMPROVING CONNECTIVITY AND INCREASING RECREATION
OPTIONS, THE EXISTING TRAIL NETWORK WILL BE EXTENDED.
22
Army Corps Feasibility Study

The Army Corps of Engineers are now in the process of a feasibility study to test the economic, cultural and environmental
impacts of the Citys preferred Flood Management Strategy developed during Phase One of the River Corridor Redevelopment
Plan. In addition to ongoing review of progress with the City and
County, the Army Corps of Engineers are also holding a series of public Open Houses throughout the Summer and Fall of
2009 and the Spring of 2010.
Urban Design Principles

Develop Urban Design Principles to guide development in reinvestment areas, and lead to updated zoning and Comprehensive
Plan Update
Schedule for Urban Design Principles
THE GREENWAY WILL INCLUDE RECREATION FIELDS SIMILAR TO THE

EXISTING SOCCER FIELDS AT TUMA PARK.
To create a cohesive feel and identity for the city, the next piece
of the Neighborhood Planning Process will be Urban Design
Principles. The vision for Cedar Rapids includes a mix of uses
and housing types to serve a wide population, so a range of
types and scales of housing and business structures will be
considered. For residential, standard types could include detached residential, attached residential, and mid-rise urban
housing. Neighborhood Centers can include low-scale commercial, mixed-use (commercial and residential), and mid- to
high-rise commercial and residential.
The process will be determined over the summer of 2009
Meetings to determine needs and topics, solicit public feedback, and approve the Guidelines will occur in the fall and
winter of 2009
VIBRANT URBAN DISTRICTS LIKE THE CLIFTON GASLIGHT DISTRICT IN

CINCINNATI, OHIO COULD BE MODELS FOR CEDAR RAPIDS URBAN AREAS.
Implementation
23
Neighborhood Planning Proces

Framework Map
EXISTING PARK
GREENWAY
LEVEE
FLOOD WALL
ACTIVITY CENTER/BUILDING PRESENCE
COMMUNITY LANDMARK
REINVESTMENT FOCUS:
BUSINESS
MIXED-USE
HOUSING
ART, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY ASSETS

MEDICAL DISTRICT
1,000
2,000

POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCES
Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
https://www.legis.iowa.gov/DOCS/Central/Guides/urbannew.pdf
Administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) of the State of Iowa
An urban renewal plan may contain several projects to be undertaken in the urban renewal
area. Urban renewal projects are typically financed by a division and reallocation of
property taxes collected in the urban renewal area. This is called tax increment financing.
Under tax increment financing, the property taxes collected from the consolidated tax rate
levied against the increase in taxable valuation over the base valuation of property in the
urban renewal area are segregated. Those segregated property tax receipts are deposited
in a special fund of the municipality and used to pay obligations incurred for urban renewal
purposes. The consolidated tax rate is the sum of all property tax levies certified to the
county to be collected as property taxes in the urban renewal area. In order to determine
the portion of property tax receipts available to the urban renewal area and to the other
tax-certifying bodies, the property valuation assessments are frozen in a particular
assessment year. The increase in assessed value after that year is considered the
incremental value, and revenues from taxes collected on that portion of the value, i.e., the
increment, are available to the municipality to fund urban renewal projects. Excerpt from
document at the website address referenced above.
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)

http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/communitydev
elopment/programs
Funded through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
and administered locally by the City of Cedar Rapids Community Development
Department
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program is a flexible program that
provides communities with resources to address a wide range of unique community
development needs. Beginning in 1974, the CDBG program is one of the longest
continuously run programs at HUD. The CDBG program provides annual grants on a
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formula basis to 1209 general units of local government and States. Excerpt from the
HUD website referenced above.
New Market Tax Credits (NMTC)

http://cdfifund.gov/what_we_do/programs_id.asp?programID=5
Funded and administered through the United States Department of the Treasury
The New Markets Tax Credit Program (NMTC Program) was established by Congress in
2000 to spur new or increased investments into operating businesses and real estate
projects located in low-income communities. The NMTC Program attracts investment
capital to low-income communities by permitting individual and corporate investors to
receive a tax credit against their Federal income tax return in exchange for making equity
investments in specialized financial institutions called Community Development Entities
(CDEs). The credit totals 39 percent of the original investment amount and is claimed over
a period of seven years (five percent for each of the first three years, and six percent for
each of the remaining four years). The investment in the CDE cannot be redeemed before
the end of the seven-year period. Excerpt from the Department of the Treasury website
referenced above.
Enterprise Zones
http://www.cedar-rapids.org/government/departments/communitydevelopment/economicdevelopmentservices/pages/stateprograms.aspx
Funded by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) of the State of Iowa and
administered locally by the City of Cedar Rapids Community Development Department
Provides State funded assistance for qualified businesses locating within a designated
distressed area as approved through the local Enterprise Zone Commission that is
appointed by the City Council. Assistance includes a number of sources including an
investment state tax credit, a research/development state tax credit, and refund of sales
tax on materials for construction. Enterprise Zones also provide for property tax
exemptions subject to City Council approval. It should be noted that Enterprise Zone
assistance also applies to qualified residential development. For the purpose of this
declaration, the following objectives/criteria only apply to economic development
projects. Excerpt from the City of Cedar Rapids website referenced above.
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Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP)

http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/transportation_enhancements/
Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Federal Highway

Administration (FHWA) and replaces the Transportation Enhancement Program (TEP). The
funds are administered by the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT).
Transportation Enhancement (TE) activities offer funding opportunities to help expand
transportation choices and enhance the transportation experience through 12 eligible TE
activities related to surface transportation, including pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure
and safety programs, scenic and historic highway programs, landscaping and scenic
beautification, historic preservation, and environmental mitigation. TE projects must relate
to surface transportation and must qualify under one or more of the 12 eligible
categories. - Excerpt from the FHWA website referenced above. Refer to the website for
the list of 12 qualified activities, program brief, guidance, legislation, funding data and
other links to further resources offered by the USDOT/FHWA.
Transportation enhancement activity.--The term "transportation enhancement activity"
means, with respect to any project or the area to be served by the project, any of the
following activities as the activities relate to surface transportation:
1.
Provision of facilities for pedestrians and bicycles.
2.
Provision of safety and educational activities for pedestrians and bicyclists.
3.
Acquisition of scenic easements and scenic or historic sites (including historic battlefields).
4.
Scenic or historic highway programs (including the provision of tourist and welcome center facilities).
5.
Landscaping and other scenic beautification.
6.
Historic preservation.
7.
Rehabilitation and operation of historic transportation buildings, structures, or facilities (including

historic railroad facilities and canals).
8.
Preservation of abandoned railway corridors (including the conversion and use of the corridors for
pedestrian or bicycle trails).
9.
Inventory, control, and removal of outdoor advertising.
10. Archaeological planning and research.

11. Environmental mitigation-a.
to address water pollution due to highway runoff; or,
b.
reduce vehicle-caused wildlife mortality while maintaining habitat connectivity.
12. Establishment of transportation museums.
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State Historic Tax Credits
http://www.iowahistory.org/historic-preservation/tax-incentives-for-rehabilitation/statetax-credits/index.html
Funded by the State of Iowa. Administered locally by the State Historical Society of Iowa
(SHSI), a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs of the State of Iowa. The State
Historic Preservation Office is part of SHSI.
The State Historic Preservation and Cultural & Entertainment District Tax Credit Program
provides a state income tax credit for the sensitive rehabilitation of historic buildings. It
ensures character-defining features and spaces of buildings are retained and helps
revitalize surrounding neighborhoods. The Program provides an income tax credit of 25%
of qualified rehabilitation costs. Excerpt from the State Historical Society of Iowa
website referenced above. Refer to the website for additional information on eligibility
requirements, availability of funding, the application process, forms and other
considerations.
Federal Historic Tax Credits

http://www.iowahistory.org/historic-preservation/tax-incentives-for-rehabilitation/federaltax-credits.html
Funded by the United States Department of the Treasury. Administered locally by the
State Historical Society of Iowa (SHSI), a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs of
the State of Iowa. The State Historic Preservation Office is part of SHSI.
The Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Program provides a federal income tax
credit for the sensitive rehabilitation of historic buildings. It ensures that characterdefining features of buildings are retained and helps revitalize surrounding neighborhoods.
The federal tax credit program provides either a 20% historic tax credit or a 10% nonhistoric income tax credit, based on the qualified rehabilitation expenditures and
dependent upon the type of building as described below. For both tax credit amounts, the
buildings must be used for income-producing purposes and the rehabilitation must be
substantial. Excerpt from the State Historical Society of Iowa website referenced
above. Refer to the website for additional information, forms and links to other resources.
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Commercial New Construction (CNC) Program MidAmerican Energy
http://www.midamericanenergy.com/ee/ia_bus_comm_new_construction.aspx
Funded and administered by MidAmerican Energy.

MidAmerican Energy's Commercial New Construction program encourages the design
and construction of new as well as the renovation or conversion of existing energyefficient commercial buildings in Iowa. Rebates are available to help offset the higher
initial costs associated with the design and installation of energy-efficient options. The
new, renovated or converted building must receive its primary electricity from
MidAmerican Energy. Where applicable, the direct supply of natural gas also must be
provided by MidAmerican Energy. Excerpt from the MidAmerican Energy website
referenced above.
Commercial New Construction (CNC) Program Alliant Energy

http://www.alliantenergy.com/SaveEnergyAndMoney/Rebates/BusMN/030555
Funded and administered by Alliant Energy.

Alliant Energys Commercial New Construction program offers free energy design
assistance, design team incentives and customer incentives through two unique options.
Track I is an option targeting the construction of commercial buildings smaller than, or up
to 15,000 square feet in size that are primarily design/build or design/bi/buil construction.
Track II targets buildings larger than 15,000 square feet that are straightforward in
design and may be on a faster design schedule. Track II provides evaluation of efficiency
options of one type of mechanical system solution.
Track III targets buildings larger than 15,000 square feet and is ideal for projects with
energy savings goals in mind and enough time to integrate new ideas and strategies into
the design. Buildings designed in this track are typically modeled to achieve energy
savings of 30 to 40% greater than Energy Code.
Track IV offers incentives and assistance to help building owners or developers achieve
energy savings of 40 to 60% better than current energy code. This track also provides
technical and certification support for participants to meet the requirements of LEED
Eac1, ENERGY STAR, EPAct, 2030 Challenge and other initiatives. Excerpt from the
Alliant Energy website referenced above.
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6.
Czech Bohemia Overlay District

a.
Intent
The Czech Bohemia Overlay (CB-O) District is hereby created. The Council
finds that the CB-O District contains unique architecture that illustrates the history
of urban development in the core of Cedar Rapids. The CB-O District contains a
wide variety of architectural styles which reflect the first Czech settlements in
Cedar Rapids, the Third Street commercial area, Czech Village, and the historic
residential areas of the Oak Hill Jackson and the Czech Village neighborhoods.
The purposes of the CB-O District are to ensure that the future development and
reconstruction of commercial and multi-family buildings is compatible with the
unique character of the CB-O District and to preserve its economic viability.
b.
District Boundaries
The CB-O District shall be an overlay for the entire area designated in Figure
32.03-1.
c.
Application of CB-O Standards and Guidelines

The CB-O Standards and Guidelines shall apply to new construction, additions to
existing buildings and/or the exterior rehabilitation of buildings located within the
boundaries of the CB-O District and that are submitted after January 24, 2012.
The CB-O District Standards and Guidelines shall not apply to:
d.
i.
Single-family and two-family dwellings;
ii.
Repair, maintenance, and replacement with comparable materials or the

same color of paint.
Design Review Technical Advisory Committee

The Design Review Technical Advisory Committee is hereby created. It
shall consist of seven (7) members to be appointed by the Mayor upon the
advise and consent of the City Council. The Design Review Technical
Advisory Committee shall examine applications for rezonings, preliminary
and administrative site development plans, conditional uses, building
permits, and variances within the CB-O District.
e.
Development Approval Process

The approval of new construction, additions to existing buildings and/or the
exterior rehabilitation of buildings for commercial or multi-family uses within the
CB-O District shall occur through the following process:
i.
City staff shall refer applicable development projects within the CB-O
District to the Design Review Technical Advisory Committee. The Design
Review Technical Advisory Committee shall be referred applications for
rezonings, preliminary and administrative site development plans,
conditional uses, building permits, and variances.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Code of Ordinances
Page 1 of 3
ii.
f.
The Design Review Technical Advisory Committee shall review any

commercial or multi-family development project within the CB-O District for
compatibility with District standards and guidelines. The Committee shall
provide recommendations to the appropriate decision-making body
following its review of a development project.
CB-O District Standards and Guidelines

All new construction, additions to existing buildings and/or the exterior
rehabilitation of buildings located within the boundaries of the CB-O District shall
meet the following Standards and Guidelines:
i.
Site Development Plan

A site development plan and building elevations shall be required as part
of the approval of a development project within the CB-O District. The site
development plan shall comply with all provisions of Chapter 32.
ii.
Size, Form and Volume

(A)
Facade heights for new buildings and additions must fall within the
height range of the surrounding block.
(B)
Floor-to-floor heights for new buildings and additions shall appear
similar to those within the range of the surrounding block.
(C)
Proposed faades wider than the established historic range of the
block upon which the proposed development is to be located may be
permitted, but design features shall be included to mimic traditional building
widths of 50 feet or less. Changes in faade material, building height,
window style or architectural detail are examples of techniques that may be
permitted to break up a faade.
iii.
Building Orientation and Parking

(A)
Commercial buildings shall be constructed to the edge of the
sidewalk with zero setbacks.
(B)
Multi-family buildings shall be constructed with setbacks that lie
within the established setback range of the block.
(C)
Principal building entrances shall be a prominent feature of the
buildings faade and should face the primary street serving the
development.
(D)
Parking should be located behind buildings when feasible. Parking
lots adjacent to sidewalks are discouraged.
iv.
Architectural Details
All new construction shall include architectural faade elements and
composition as follows:
(A)
The faade should have a vertical orientation and maintain the

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traditional proportions of height and width found in existing historic

buildings in the CB-O District.
(B)
The top edge of the building shall be defined by a cornice line or
similar articulation.
(C)
Windows and doors shall be located, spaced and aligned on the
building faade in a manner consistent with the established context of the
block.
(D)
The sizes of windows and doors shall be consistent with the
proportions of historic buildings in the District.
(E)
Highly reflective, opaque or darkly tinted glass shall not be used for
windows or doors.
v.
Building Materials
(A)
All new construction shall use compatible and traditional building
materials such as brick, limestone and metalwork. A creative mix of
materials consistent with the historic character of the area may be
considered.
(B)
Materials shall be used in a manner that incorporates architectural
details, complementary textures and small scale elements, especially on
the first floor of the primary faade.
vi.
Signage
(A)
New signage shall respect the size, scale and design of the building
to which it is attached, and the buildings of the surrounding District.
(B)
New signage shall not obscure significant architectural details of a
historic structure.
(C)
Acceptable forms of signage include signs integrated into or affixed
flat against a building faade, wall signs, projecting signs and monument
signs. Other types of signage may be considered if compatible with the
unique character of the District.

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Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Code of Ordinances >> CHAPTER 32B - FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT
ORDINANCE >>
CHAPTER 32B - FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE

32B.01 - LEGAL AUTHORITY, FINDINGS OF FACT AND PURPOSE.
32B.02 - DEFINITIONS.
32B.03 - GENERAL PROVISIONS.
32B.04 - FLOODWAY, FLOODPLAIN AND FLOOD-PRONE AREA REQUIREMENTS.
32B.05 - STRUCTURES IN FLOODPLAIN.
32B.06 - EXCEPTIONS.
32B.07 - ADMINISTRATION.
32B.08 - VARIANCE.
32B.09 - APPEAL PROCESS.
32B.10 - ENFORCEMENT.
32B.11 - NON-CONFORMING USES.
32B.12 - AMENDMENTS.
32B.01 - LEGAL AUTHORITY, FINDINGS OF FACT AND PURPOSE.

(a)
(b)
Legal Authority. Chapter 364 of the Code of Iowa grants cities the authority, except as
expressly limited by the Constitution and if not inconsistent with the laws of the General
Assembly, to exercise any power and perform any function it deems appropriate to protect
and preserve the rights, privileges, and property of the city or of its residents, and to preserve
and improve the peace, safety, health, welfare, comfort, and convenience of its residents.
Findings of Fact.
1.
The flood hazard areas of the City of Cedar Rapids are subject to inundation which
can result in loss of life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of
commerce and governmental services, extraordinary public expenditures for flood
protection and relief, and impairment of the tax base, all of which adversely affect the
peace, safety, health, welfare, comfort, and convenience of its residents.
2.
(c)
These flood losses, hazards, and related adverse effects are caused by:
A.
The occupancy of flood hazard areas by uses vulnerable to flood damages
which create hazardous conditions as a result of being inadequately elevated
or otherwise protected from flooding.
B.
The cumulative effect of development in the floodplain causing increases in
flood heights and velocities.

3.
This chapter relies upon engineering methodology for analyzing flood hazards which
meet or exceed standards established by the National Flood Insurance Program.
Statement of Purpose. It is the purpose of this chapter to protect and preserve the rights,
privileges and property of the City of Cedar Rapids and its residents and to preserve and
improve the peace, safety, health, welfare, and comfort and convenience of its residents by
minimizing those flood losses with provisions designed to:
1.
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2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Maintain or reduce flood peaks, flood stage, flood velocity, erosion, and sedimentation
in public works projects, development, and other activities.
Restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous to health, safety or property in times of
flood or which cause excessive increases in flood heights or velocities.
Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including public utilities which serve such uses,
be protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction.
Protect individuals from buying lands which are unsuited for intended purposes
because of flood hazard.
Assure that eligibility is maintained for any property owner in the City to purchase
flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Maximize the benefits of floodplain lands, such as natural flood and erosion control,
ecological productivity, and recreation.
(009-10)
32B.02 - DEFINITIONS.
Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in this chapter shall be interpreted
so as to give them the meaning they have in common usage and to give this chapter its most
reasonable application.
100-Year Flood: The flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in
any given year.
500-Year Flood: The flood having a two-tenths percent chance of being equaled or
exceeded in any given year.
Base Flood: The flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any
given year. Also see "100-Year Flood".
Base Flood Elevation (BFE): The water surface elevation of the 100-year flood.
Basement: Any enclosed area having its floor below grade level on all sides.
City: The City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Community Rating System: A FEMA program that provides discounted flood insurance
premiums to policyholders in communities actively partaking in creditable floodplain management
activities.
Design Standards Manual: The latest edition of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Area
Engineering Design Standards as approved by the City Council.
Development: Any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but
not limited to, buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or
drilling operations, or storage of equipment or materials. "Development" does not include "minor
projects" or "routine maintenance of existing buildings and facilities" as defined in this section. It
also does not include gardening, plowing, and similar practices that do not involve filling and/or
grading.
Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM): A Flood Insurance Rate Map with floodplains
delineated using digital elevation data.
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Existing Urban Area: Improved real estate inside and outside the corporate limits of the City
of Cedar Rapids, on the effective date of this ordinance.
Existing Factory-Built Home Park or Subdivision: An existing factory-built home park or
subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the factory-built
homes are to be affixed (including at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of
streets, and either the final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) that is completed before
the effective date of the first floodplain management regulations adopted by the City.
Factory-built Home: Any structure, designed for residential use, which is wholly or in
substantial part, made, fabricated, formed or assembled in manufacturing facilities for installation or
assembly and installation, on a building site. For the purpose of this chapter factory-built homes
include mobile homes, manufactured homes and modular homes and also include park trailers,
travel trailers and other similar vehicles places on a site for greater than 180 consecutive days.
Proposed Factory-Built Home Park or Subdivision: A proposed factory-built home park or
subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the factory-built
homes are to be affixed (including at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of
streets, and either the final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) that was or is to be
completed after the effective date of the first floodplain management regulations adopted by the
City.
FEMA: The Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Flood: A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry
land areas resulting from the overflow of streams or rivers or from the unusual and rapid runoff of
surface waters from any source.
Flood Elevation: The elevation floodwaters would reach at a particular site during the
occurrence of a specific flood. For instance, the 100-year flood elevation is the elevation of
floodwaters related to the occurrence of the 100-year flood.
Flood (or Floodway) Fringe: The FEMA-mapped floodplain outside of the Floodway.
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM): The Flood Insurance Rate Map effective April 5, 2010
and any revisions thereto, on which FEMA has delineated both the areas of special flood hazards
and the risk premium zones applicable to the community.
Flood Insurance Study: The Flood Insurance Study for Linn County Iowa, including Cedar
Rapids, published by FEMA in conjunction with the FIRM and containing background data such as
base flood discharges and water surface elevations used to prepare the FIRM.
Floodplain: Lands which are subject to a one percent or greater chance of flooding in any
given year shown as Zones A and AE on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps issued by FEMA for Linn
County, Iowa and incorporated areas, as amended. Also referred to as the "100-year floodplain".
Floodplain Management: An overall program of corrective and preventive measures for
reducing flood damages and promoting the wise use of floodplains, including but not limited to
emergency preparedness plans, flood control works, flood-proofing and floodplain management
regulations.
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Flood-prone: Lands subject to a one percent or greater chance of flooding in any given
year, as determined by hydrologic and hydraulic studies completed by the City or other government
agency, or other acceptable source as approved by the City where this is the best available
information.
Flood-proofing: Any combination of structural and nonstructural additions, changes, or
adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate flood damage to real estate or improved real
property, water and sanitary facilities, structures and their contents.
Floodway: The channel of a river or other watercourses and the adjacent land areas that
must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water
surface elevation more than one foot.
Historic Structure: Any structure that is:
1.
2.
3.
Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places, maintained by the

Department of Interior, or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as
meeting the requirements for individual listing of the National Register;
Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as contributing to
the historical significance of a registered historic district or a district preliminarily
determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered historic district;
Individually listed on a state inventory of historic places in states with historic
preservation programs which have been approved by the Secretary of the Interior; or
4.
Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places in Cedar Rapids with historic
preservation programs that have been certified by either (i) an approved state
program as determined by the Secretary of the Interior or (ii) directly by the Secretary
of the Interior in states without approved programs.
Letter of Map Change (LOMC): A determination document issued by FEMA that officially
revises the FIRM based on updated information, whether improved data or topography changes
created by fill placement. This includes Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA), Letter of Map Revision
(LOMR), Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F), Conditional Letter of Map Revision
(CLOMR), and Conditional Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (CLOMR-F).
Lowest Floor: The floor of the lowest enclosed area in a building including a basement
except when all the following criteria are met:
1.
The enclosed area is designed to flood to equalize hydrostatic pressure during floods
with walls or openings that satisfy the provisions of Section 32B.05 (d) 1; and
2.
The enclosed area is unfinished (not carpeted, drywall, etc.) and used solely for low
damage potential uses such as building access, parking or storage; and
Machinery and service facilities (e.g., hot water heater, furnace, electrical service)
contained in the enclosed area are located at least one foot above the 100-year flood
level; and
The enclosed area is not a "basement" as defined in this section. In cases where the
lowest enclosed area satisfies criteria 1, 2, 3, and 4 above, the lowest floor is the floor
of the next highest enclosed area that does not satisfy the criteria above.
3.
4.
Market Value: The value established by the City Assessor for that property.
Minor Project: Small development activities (except for filling, grading and excavating)
valued at less than $500.
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NAVD: The North American Vertical Datum of 1988.

New Construction (New Buildings, Factory-built Home Parks): Those structures or
development for which the start of construction commenced on or after the effective date of the
ordinance codified in this chapter.
Non-substantial improvement: Any improvement that does not meet the definition of
substantial improvement, as defined in this section.
Qualified engineer: A licensed professional engineer in the State of Iowa who, by reason of
training and experience, is considered knowledgeable and has demonstrated competence in
hydrology and hydraulics and their application to the flood insurance study.
Recreational Vehicle (under Chapter 32B only): A vehicle which is:
(a)
(b)
Built on a single chassis;

400 square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection;
(c)
(d)
Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light duty truck; and

Designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living
quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE): An elevation at least one foot above the
Base Flood Elevation plus any increases in flood elevation caused by encroachments on the flood
plain that result from designation of a floodway.
Routine Maintenance of Existing Buildings and Facilities: Repairs necessary to keep a
structure in a safe and habitable condition that do not trigger a building permit, provided they are
not associated with a general improvement of the structure or repair of a damaged structure. Such
repairs include:
(a)
(b)
Normal maintenance of structures such as re-roofing, replacing roofing tiles and

replacing siding;
Exterior and interior painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and
similar finish work;
(c)
(d)
Basement sealing;
Repairing or replacing damaged or broken window panes;
(e)
Repairing plumbing systems, electrical systems, heating or air conditioning systems

and repairing wells or septic systems.
Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA): The land in the floodplain subject to a one percent or
greater chance of flooding in any given year.
Start of construction: The first placement of permanent construction of a structure on a
site, such as the pouring of slabs or footings, the installation of piles, the construction of columns, or
any work beyond the stage of excavation, or the placement of a manufactured home on a
foundation. Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such as clearing, grading,
and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include
excavation for a basement, footings, piers or foundations or the erection of temporary forms; nor
does it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not
occupied as dwelling units or not as part of the main structure. For a substantial improvement, the
actual start of construction shall mean the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural
part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimension of the building.
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Structure: Anything constructed or erected on the ground or attached to the ground,

including, but not limited to, buildings, factories, sheds, cabins, factory-built homes, storage tanks,
and other similar uses.
Substantial Damage: Damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of
restoring the structure to a before-damaged condition would equal or exceed fifty percent of the
market value of the structure before the damage occurred. Substantial damage also means floodrelated damages sustained by a structure on two separate occasions during a 10 year period for
which the cost of repairs at the time of such flood event, on the average, equals or exceeds 25
percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.
Substantial improvement: Any improvement to a structure which satisfies one or more of
the following criteria:
1.
2.
3.
Any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or improvement of a structure, the cost of

which equals or exceeds fifty percent of the market value of the structure either before
the "start of construction" of the improvement whether or not that alteration affects the
external dimensions of the structure. This term includes structures which have
incurred "substantial damage" regardless of the actual repair work performed. The
term does not, however, include either:
A.
Any project for improvement of a structure to correct existing violations of state
or local health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been
identified by the local code enforcement officer and which are the minimum
necessary to assure safe living conditions; or
B.
Any alteration will not preclude the structures continued designation as a
"historic structure."
Any addition which increases the original floor area of a building by 25 percent or
more. All additions constructed after June 1, 1987, shall be added to any proposed
addition in determining whether the total increase in original floor space would exceed
25 percent.
The cumulative cost of any repairs or improvements undertaken over a period of five
years equals or exceeds fifty percent of the market value of the structure.
Variance: A grant of relief from the terms of a floodplain management regulation.

Violation: Failure to be fully compliant with the floodplain management regulations as set
forth in this chapter. A structure or other development without an elevation certificate, other
certifications, or other evidence of compliance as required is presumed to be in violation until such
time as that documentation is provided.
Watershed Plan: A plan prepared by the City or in cooperation with other agencies, which
includes hydrologic and hydraulic modeling for the 100-year event, including 100-year floodplain
elevation and limits.
(009-10)
32B.03 - GENERAL PROVISIONS.

(a)
Lands to Which Regulations Apply. These floodplain management regulations shall apply
to Special Flood Hazard Areas. The Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Linn County and
Incorporated Areas, City of Cedar Rapids, Panels 0279, 0280, 0284, 0287, 0290, 0291,
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0295, 0311, 0313, 0385, 0405, 0410, 0415, 0420, 0430, 0435, 0440 and 0535, dated April 5,
2010, which were prepared as part of the Linn County Flood Insurance Study shall be used
to identify such flood hazard areas and all areas shown thereon to be within the boundaries
of the 100-year flood shall be considered as having significant flood hazards. Where
uncertainty exists with respect to the precise location of the 100-year flood boundary, the
location shall be determined on the basis of the 100-year flood elevation at the particular site
in question. The Linn County Flood Insurance Study is hereby adopted by reference and is
made a part of this chapter for the purpose of administering floodplain management
regulations.
(b)
Compliance. No structure or land shall hereafter be used and no structure shall be located,
extended, converted or structurally altered without full compliance with the terms of this
chapter and other applicable regulations which apply to uses within the jurisdiction of this
chapter.
(c)
Review and Approval. Any proposed development within the floodplain shall be reviewed
and approved by the City as part of the Floodplain Development Application process.
Abrogation and Greater Restrictions. It is not intended by this chapter to repeal, abrogate
or impair any existing easements, covenants, or deed restrictions. However, where this
chapter imposes greater restrictions, the provisions of this chapter shall prevail. All other
ordinances inconsistent with this chapter are repealed to the extent of the inconsistency only.
Interpretation. In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this chapter shall be
held to be minimum requirements and shall be liberally construed in favor of the governing
body and shall not be deemed a limitation or repeal of any other powers granted by state
statutes.
(d)
(e)
(f)
Warning and Disclaimer of Liability. The degree of flood protection required by this
chapter is considered reasonable for regulatory purposes and is based on engineering and
scientific methods of study. Larger floods may occur. Flood heights may be increased by
manmade or natural causes, such as ice jams and bridge openings restricted by debris. This
chapter does not imply that areas outside the regulated areas or that uses permitted within
the regulated areas will be free from flooding or flood damages. This chapter shall not create
liability on the part of Cedar Rapids or any officer or employee thereof for any flood damages
that result from reliance on this chapter or any administrative decision lawfully made
hereunder.
(009-10)
32B.04 - FLOODWAY, FLOODPLAIN AND FLOOD-PRONE AREA REQUIREMENTS.
(b)
Development of any land in the floodway shall cause no increase in the water surface
elevation of the 100-year flood.
Development of any land in the floodplain, flood-prone area, or floodway shall not:
1.
Result in any new or additional expense to any person or agency other than the
(c)
developer for flood protection or for lost environmental stream uses or functions;
2.
Pose any new or additional increase in flood velocity or impairment of the hydrologic
and hydraulic functions of streams and floodplains;
Analysis and design of floodplain development shall consider existing and ultimate
watershed and land use conditions, with and without the proposed development. The
analysis of floodway, floodplain, and flood-prone areas shall utilize the most current flood
studies, hydrologic and hydraulic models provided by FEMA, the City, or other source
(a)
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(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
Page 8 of 16
approved by the City. If a study of the affected area does not exist, the land developer shall
submit an analysis prepared by a qualified engineer for City review.
The location, grade, and flood-proofing of all proposed utilities which are to be extended into
or through any portion of the floodplain or flood-prone area to serve the proposed
development shall be approved by the City, prior to the extension of such utilities into the
floodplain or flood-prone area.
Watercourse alterations or relocations (channel changes and modifications) must be
designed to maintain the flood-carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion. In
addition, such alterations or relocations must be approved by the Iowa Department of Natural
Resources.
Any fill allowed in the floodway must be shown to have some beneficial purpose and shall be
limited to the minimum amount necessary.
Pipeline river or stream crossings shall be buried in the streambed and banks or otherwise
sufficiently protected to prevent rupture due to channel degradation and meandering or due
to the action of flood flows.
No use shall affect the capacity or conveyance of the channel or floodway or any tributary to
the main stream, drainage ditch, or any other drainage facility or system.
Special Provisions for Shallow Flooding Areas: In addition to the General Floodplain
Standards, uses within shallow flooding areas must meet the following applicable standards.
1.
In shallow flooding areas designated as an AO Zone on the Flood Insurance Rate
Map (FIRM), the minimum floodproofing/flood protection elevation shall be equal to
the number of feet as specified on the FIRM (or a minimum of 2.0 ft. if no number is
specified) above the highest natural grade adjacent to the structure.
2.
In shallow flooding areas designated as an AH Zone on the Flood Insurance Rate
Map, the minimum floodproofing/flood protection elevation shall be equal to the
elevation as specified on the FIRM.
(009-10)
32B.05 - STRUCTURES IN FLOODPLAIN.

(a)
All structures shall be:

1.
Adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement of the
2.
structure resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including buoyancy.

Constructed with materials and utility equipment resistant to flood damage.
3.
4.
(b)
Constructed by methods and practices that minimize flood damage.

Issued all other necessary permits from federal, state and local government agencies
including approval when required from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
All new or substantially improved residential structures shall have the lowest floor, including
basement, elevated a minimum of one foot above the 100-year flood level. Construction shall
be upon compacted fill which shall, at all points, be no lower than one foot above the 100year flood level and extend at such elevation at least 18 feet beyond the limits of any
structure erected thereon. Alternate methods of elevating (such as piers) may be allowed,
where existing topography, street grades, or other factors preclude elevating by fill. In such
cases, the methods used must be adequate to support the structure as well as withstand the
various forces and hazards associated with flooding. All new residential structures shall be
provided with a means of access which will be passable by wheeled vehicles during the 100year flood.
(c)
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(d)
Page 9 of 16
All new or substantially improved non-residential buildings shall have the first floor (including
basement) elevated a minimum of one foot above the 100-year flood level, or together with
attendant utility and sanitary systems, be flood-proofed to such a level. When flood-proofing
is utilized, a licensed professional engineer or licensed professional architect registered in
the State of Iowa shall certify that the flood-proofing methods used are in accordance with
accepted standards of practice for withstanding the flood depths, pressures, velocities,
impact and uplift forces and other factors associated with the 100-year flood; and that the
structure, below the 100-year flood level, is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to
the passage of water. A record of the certification indicating the specific elevation (in relation
to North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD 1988) to which any structures are floodproofed shall be maintained by the Administrator.
New and Substantially Improved Structures.
1.
Fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor that are usable solely for parking of
vehicles, building access, or low damage potential storage in an area other than a
basement and which are subject to flooding shall be designed to automatically
equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of
floodwaters. Designs for meeting this requirement must either be certified by a
licensed professional engineer registered in the State of Iowa or meet or exceed the
following minimum criteria:
A.
A minimum of 2 openings having a total net area of not less than 1 square inch
B.
C.
2.
3.
(e)
for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding shall be provided.
The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade.
Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings or

devices provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
New and substantially improved structures must be designed (or modified) and
adequately anchored to resist flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of the structure
resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy.
New and substantially improved structures must be constructed with electrical,
heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air conditioning equipment and other service
facilities that are designed and/or located so as to prevent water from entering or
accumulating within the components during conditions of flooding.
Factory-built Homes.
1.
Factory-built homes placed or substantially improved inside or outside of new,
existing, or expanded factory-built home parks or subdivisions shall be ground
anchored to resist flotation, collapse, or lateral movement. Specific requirements are
that:
A.
Over-the-top ties provided at each of the 4 corners of the factory-built home
with 2 additional ties per side at intermediate locations for factory-built homes
50 feet or more in length or one such time for factory-built homes less than 50
feet in length.
B.
Frame ties provided at each corner of the home with 5 additional ties per side
at intermediate points for factory-built homes 50 feet or more in length or 4
such ties for homes less than 50 feet in length.
C.
All components of the anchoring system capable of carrying a force of 4800
D.
E.
pounds.
Any additions to the factory-built home shall be similarly anchored.
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2.
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
Chassis is supported by reinforced piers or other foundation elements of at

least equivalent strength that are no less than 36 inches in height above grade.
Factory-built homes shall be elevated on a permanent foundation such that the lowest
floor of the structure is a minimum of 1 foot above the 100-year flood level.
Utility and Sanitary Systems.

1.
All new and replacement water and wastewater systems shall be designed to
minimize and eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the system as well as the
discharge of effluent into floodwaters. Water and wastewater treatment facilities shall
be provided with a level of flood protection equal to or greater than 3 feet above the
100-year flood elevation:
A.
On-site waste disposal systems shall be located or designed to avoid
impairment to the system or contamination from the system during flooding.
B.
Utilities such as gas or electrical systems shall be located and constructed to
minimize or eliminate flood damage to the system and the risk associated with
such flood damaged or impaired systems.
Existing or future storage of materials and equipment that are flammable, explosive or
injurious to human, animal or plant life is prohibited unless elevated a minimum of 1 foot
above the 100-year flood level. Other material and equipment must be either be similarly
elevated or:
(1)
Not be subject to major flood damage and be anchored to prevent movement due to
floodwaters or
(2)
Be readily removable from the area within the time available after flood warning.
Flood control structural works such as levees, flood walls, etc. shall provide, at a minimum,
protection from a 100-year flood with a minimum of 3 feet of design freeboard and shall
provide for adequate interior drainage. In addition, structural flood control works shall be
approved by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
No use shall affect the capacity or conveyance of the channel or floodway of any tributary to
the main stream, drainage ditch, or other drainage facility or system.
Subdivisions (including factory-built home parks and subdivisions) shall be consistent with
the need to minimize flood damages and shall have adequate drainage provided to reduce
exposure to flood damage. Subdivision development (including the installation of public
utilities) shall meet the applicable performance standards. If a subdivision proposal or other
proposed new development is in a flood-prone area, any such proposals shall be reviewed to
assure that all public utilities and facilities, such as sewer, gas, electrical and water systems
are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage. Subdivision proposals
intended for residential development shall provide all lots with a means of vehicular access
that will remain dry during occurrence of the 100-year flood. Proposals for subdivisions
greater than five (5) acres or fifty (50) lots (whichever is less) shall include 100-year flood
elevation data for those areas located within the area of significant flood hazard.
Detached Accessory Structures.
1.
New detached accessory structures are prohibited in the floodway. Accessory
structures shall meet the following standards if constructed or placed in the floodplain:
A.
Accessory structures shall not be used for human habitation.
B.
Accessory structures and uses shall be designed to have a low flood damage
C.
potential.
Accessory structures shall be placed on the building site and constructed so as
to offer the minimum resistance to the flow of floodwaters.
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D.
E.
Accessory structures shall be firmly anchored to prevent flotation which may

result in damage to other structures.
A Structure's service facilities such as electrical and heating equipment shall be
elevated or flood-proofed to at least one foot above the 100-year flood level.
F.
(l)
The structure shall not exceed 600 gross square feet in area.
Recreational Vehicles
1.
Recreational Vehicles are exempt from the requirements of Section 32B.05 (e) of this
Ordinance regarding anchoring and elevation of factory-built homes when the
following criteria area satisfied:
A.
The recreational vehicle shall be located on the site for less than 180
consecutive days; and
B.
The recreational vehicle must be fully licensed and ready for highway use. A
recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its wheels or jacking
system and is attached to the site only be quick disconnect type utilities and
security devices and has no permanently attached additions.
2.
(m)
(n)
Recreational vehicles that are located on the site for more than 180 consecutive days
or are not ready for highway use must satisfy requirements of Section 32B.05 (e) of
this Ordinance regarding anchoring and elevation of factory-built homes.
Where floodway data has been provided in the Flood Insurance Study, such data shall be
used to define the floodway limits. Where no floodway data has been provided, the Iowa
Department of Natural Resources shall be contacted to provide a floodway delineation.
In addition to the general floodplain standards, all uses within the floodway shall meet the
following applicable standards.
1.
Consistent with the need to minimize flood damage.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Use construction methods and practices that will minimize flood damage.
Use construction materials and utility equipment that are resistant to flood damage.
Structures, buildings and sanitary and utility systems, if permitted, shall meet the
applicable general floodplain standards and shall be constructed or aligned to present
the minimum possible resistance to flood flows.
Buildings, if permitted, shall have low flood damage potential and shall not be for
human habitation.
Storage of materials or equipment that are buoyant, flammable, explosive or injurious
to human, animal or plant life is prohibited. Storage of other material may be allowed if
readily removable from the floodway within the time available after flood warning.
(009-10)
32B.06 - EXCEPTIONS.
(a)
Exceptions are provided to Section 32B.04 for the following:

1.
Residential non-substantial improvements.
2.
Flood proofing of existing buildings, other than filling.
3.
Minor projects clearly having negligible impact, such as street resurfacing and
rehabilitation, certain utility infrastructure and appurtenances (e.g. hydrants, poles,
manholes, underground pipes), bridge/culvert rehabilitation projects, landscaping,
stream rehabilitation, and minor water quality features which typically pose no
increase fill or flood potential that would increase flood elevations are not required to
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Page 12 of 16
4.
5.
6.
submit study information to document no net rise unless specifically required by the
Public Works Department.
Public stream crossing structures.
Storm water detention/retention facilities, ponds, streambank stabilization, and
wetlands.
A historic structure is not required to meet elevation or flood-proofing requirements
when it is substantially improved, provided the modifications do not preclude the
structure's continued designation as a historic structure.
(009-10)
32B.07 - ADMINISTRATION.
(a)
Duties and Responsibilities of Administrator.

1.
The Floodplain Manager of the City of Cedar Rapids shall administer and enforce the
provisions of this chapter and will herein be referred to as the Administrator.
2.
Duties and responsibilities of the Administrator shall include, but not necessarily be
limited to the following:
A.
Review all floodplain development permit applications to ensure that the
provisions of this Ordinance will be satisfied.
B.
Review all floodplain development permit applications to ensure that all
necessary permits have been obtained from federal, state or local
governmental agencies.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
(b)
Obtain and maintain a record of:

(1)
The NAVD elevation of the lowest floor of all new or substantially
improved buildings.
(2)
The elevation to which new or substantially improved structures have
been flood-proofed.
Notify adjacent communities and/or counties and the Iowa Department of
Natural Resources prior to any proposed alteration or relocation of a
watercourse and submit evidence of such notifications to the Federal
Emergency Management Agency.
Assure that the flood carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion of
any watercourse is maintained.
Keep a record of all permits, appeals, variances and such other transactions
and correspondence pertaining to the administration of this ordinance.
Charge and receive such reasonable fees, as set forth by the City Council by
resolution from time to time, to help defray administrative costs related to
floodplain/floodway development permits, variances and amendments.
Floodplain Development Permit Required.

1.
A floodplain development permit issued by the Administrator shall be secured prior to
initiation of any floodplain development (any manmade change to improved or
unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures,
mining, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations) including the
placement of factory-built homes.
2.
Application for a floodplain development permit shall be made on forms supplied by
the Administrator and shall include the following information:
A.
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B.
Description of the work to be covered by the permit for which application is to

be made.
Description of the land on which the proposed work is to be done (i.e., lot,
block, tract, street address or similar description) that will readily identify and
locate the work to be done.
C.
D.
Indication of the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.
Elevation of the 100-year flood.
E.
NAVD Elevation of the lowest floor (including basement) of buildings or of the

level to which a building is to be flood-proofed.
For buildings being improved or rebuilt, the estimated cost of improvements
and market value of the building prior to the improvements.
Such other information as the Administrator deems reasonably necessary for
the purpose of this ordinance.
F.
G.
3.
4.
5.
The Administrator shall, within a reasonable time, make a determination as to whether

the proposed floodplain development meets the applicable standards of this chapter
and shall approve or disapprove the application. For disapprovals, the applicant shall
be informed, in writing, of the specific reasons therefore.
Floodplain Development Permits based on approved plans and applications authorize
only the use, arrangement, and construction set forth in such approved plans and
applications and no other use, arrangement or construction. Any use, arrangement, or
construction at variance with that authorized shall be deemed a violation of this
chapter. The applicant shall be required to submit certification by a licensed architect,
licensed engineer or licensed land surveyor, as appropriate, registered in the State of
Iowa, that the finished fill, building floor elevations, flood-proofing, or other flood
protection measures where accomplished in compliance with the provisions of this
chapter, prior to the use or occupancy of any structure.
All other necessary permits required by Federal or State Law, including Section 404 of
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, 33 U.S.C. 1334 shall
be received prior to the Administrator's approval of Floodplain Development Permits,
including approval when required from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
(009-10)
32B.08 - VARIANCE.
(a)
The Building Code Board of Appeals may authorize, upon request in specific cases, such
variances from the terms of this chapter that will not be contrary to the public interest where,
owing to special conditions, a literal enforcement of the provisions of this chapter will result in
unnecessary hardship.
(b)
No variance shall be granted for any development within the floodway which would result in
any increase in flood heights during the occurrence of the 100-year flood. Consideration of
the effects of any development on flood levels shall be based upon the assumption that an
equal degree of development would be allowed for similarly situated lands.
(c)
Variances shall only be granted upon:

1.
A showing of good and sufficient cause.
2.
A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship
to the applicant.
3.
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(d)
(e)
Page 14 of 16
A determination that the granting of the variance will not result in increased flood
heights, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary public expense, create
nuisances, cause fraud on or victimization of the public.
Variances shall only be granted upon a determination that the variance is the minimum
necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief.
In cases where the variance involves a lower level of flood protection for buildings than what
is ordinarily required by this chapter, the applicant shall be notified in writing over the
signature of the Administrator that:
1.
The issuance of a variance will result in increased premium rates for flood insurance.
2.
(f)
(g)
Such construction increases risks to life and property.
All variances granted shall have the concurrence or approval of the Iowa Department of
Natural Resources.
In passing upon applications for variances, the Building Code Board of Appeals shall
consider all relevant factors specified in other sections of this chapter and:
1.
The danger to life and property due to increased flood heights or velocities caused by
2.
encroachments.
The danger that materials may be swept on to other land or downstream to the injury
of others.
3.
The proposed water supply and sanitation systems and the ability of these systems to
prevent disease, contamination and unsanitary conditions.
4.
The susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage and the
effect of such damage on the individual owner.
The importance of the services provided by the proposed facility to the City.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
The requirements of the facility for a floodplain location.

The availability of alternative locations not subject to flooding for the proposed use.
The compatibility of the proposed use with existing development and development
anticipated in the foreseeable future.
The relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan and floodplain
management program for the area.
The safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary and emergency
vehicles.
The expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise and sediment transport of the
floodwater expected at the site.
The cost of providing governmental services during and after flood conditions,
including maintenance and repair of public utilities (sewer, gas, electrical and water
systems), facilities, streets and bridges.
13.
(h)
Such other factors which are relevant to the purpose of this chapter.
Upon consideration of the factors listed above, the Building Code Board of Appeals may
attach such conditions to the granting of variances as it deems necessary to further the
purpose of this chapter. Such conditions may include, but not necessarily be limited to:
1.
Modification of waste disposal and water supply facilities.
2.
Limitation of periods of use and operation.
3.
4.
Imposition of operational controls, sureties, and deed restrictions.

Requirements for construction of channel modifications, dikes, levees, and other
protective measures, provided such are approved by the Iowa Department of Natural
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5.
(i)
Resources and are deemed the only practical alternative to achieving the purpose of
this chapter.
Flood-proofing measures.
Variances will not be granted for the following circumstances:

1.
Perceived loss in property value.
2.
Requirements inconvenience the property owner.
3.
4.
Lack of funds to bring property into compliance.

Property will look different from other nearby properties.
(009-10)
32B.09 - APPEAL PROCESS.

(a)
(b)
(c)
Appeal to City Council. Any person adversely affected by any decision made under this
Ordinance may appeal to the City Council by filing a written notice of such appeal with the
City Clerk setting forth the issues within 20 days of said decision.
Appeal to District Court. Any person adversely affected by any decision of the City Council
may appeal to the Iowa District Court for Linn County by filing a petition with said court and
serving a copy thereof on the City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in the same manner as the service
of process in a civil action within 30 days of said decision.
Review by Other Agency. If any decision by the City needs the review or approval of any
State and/or Federal agency, then the times for appeal herein shall not begin to run until
such review or approval has been received by the City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
(009-10)
32B.10 - ENFORCEMENT.
(a)
In addition to any other actions, the Administrator, upon determination of a violation, shall
request a denial of flood insurance from the Federal Insurance Administration. The request
shall consist of:
1.
Name of the property owner and address or legal description of the property sufficient
to confirm its identity or location.
2.
A clear and unequivocal declaration that the property is in violation of a cited State or
3.
4.
5.
local law, regulation, or ordinance.

A clear statement that the public body making the declaration has authority to do so
and a citation to that authority.
Evidence that the property owner has been provided notice of the violation and a
prospective denial of insurance.
A clear statement that the declaration is being submitted pursuant to Section 1316,
National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as amended.
(009-10)
32B.11 - NON-CONFORMING USES.

(a)
A structure or the use of a structure or premises which was lawful before the passage or
amendment of this Ordinance, but which is not in conformity with the provisions of this
Ordinance, may be continued subject to the following conditions:
1.
If such use is discontinued for six (6) consecutive months, any future use of the
building premises shall conform to this Ordinance.
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2.
(b)
Uses or adjuncts thereof that are or become nuisances shall not be entitled to
continue as nonconforming uses.
If any nonconforming use or structure is destroyed by any means, including flood, it shall not
be reconstructed if the cost is more than fifty (50) percent of the market value of the structure
before the damage occurred, unless it is reconstructed in conformity with the provisions of
this Ordinance. This limitation does not include the cost of any alteration to comply with
existing state or local health, sanitary, building or safety codes or regulations or the cost of
any alteration of a structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places, provided that
the alteration shall not preclude its continued designation.
(009-10)
32B.12 - AMENDMENTS.
(a)
The regulations and standards set forth in this chapter may periodically be amended,
supplemented, changed, or repealed. No amendment, supplement, change, or modification
shall be undertaken without prior review of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
(009-10)
(Note: Chapter 32B adopted by Ordinance No. 81-87, passed September 30, 1987, published
October 5, 1987 and reenacted by Ordinance No. 009-10, passed March 9, 2010 and published
March 15, 2010)
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CZECH VILLAGE / NEW BOHEMIA MAIN STREET DISTRICT

STRATEGIC REVITALIZATION PLAN

STRATEGIC REVITALIZATION PLAN

Strategic Revitalization Plan- appendix

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Why dont you come to the

Just never think about it

I don't know what's there.

Was unaware of until recently.

We moved here in June and just haven't. Its

There is currently nothing there that interests

Just don't know enough about it.

Not sure what to do in the district.

Which groups should the district

How do you get to the District?

What brings you to the District?

The Historic character of the

I work in the District

I live in the District

List three words that describe the

Which annual events do you

What do you like about the District

the new changes that are coming

What do you like about the District

What do you like about the District

It is getting better and better, a real destination

it's forward movement, uniqueness

What do you like about the District

fun place to hang out with family and/or friends

What do you think is missing from

Housing in the District

What kind of housing would

Would you live in the

Would you like to:

Would you live in the district?

- Answers received, other then I like where I live now

dangerous area at night.

Do you have Children?

What age are your children?

New Bohemia District

Iowa City / Coralville

Where do you live today?

Downtown Professionals Network

Main Street Iowa

Change: 2011 2016

Change: 2011 2016

Change: 2011 2016

Q. Would you live in the District?

List three words that describe the District today.

Historic, Historical, History

Art, Artistic, Arts, Artsie, Artsy

Czech Village / New Bohemia District | Consumer Online Survey | 2012

Would you place a high, moderate or low priority on possible

Restore and preserve the

Stage additional festivals and

Create incentives for new and

Improve and/or create more

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Market Study Summary

Downtown Professionals Network

Main Street Iowa

Times they are a-changing.