The Cedar Falls Downtown Streetscape and Reconstruction project will be starting Phase 2 of construction on April 5, 2021.
The City of Cedar Falls partnered with Community Main Street to develop a Downtown streetscape plan in 2015. The goal was to increase walkability and create cohesion for the growing area. Phase 1 of the project took place in March 2020 and wrapped up in Fall 2020. It included the reconstruction of West 3rd Street and West 2nd Street (Main to Washington) and replacement of the Parkade bricks in the 100 block, 200 block, and 300 block area of Main Street.
As part of Phase 2, the remaining three blocks of the Parkade (400, 500, and 600) will receive updated brick pavers and amenities, including the same precast concrete twig benches and planter beds that are now located in the 100 and 200 blocks of Main Street. Additionally, four side streets will go through extensive overhauls. Within this upcoming 2021 construction season, the two blocks of 4th Street (between Washington Street and State Street) will also be receiving new water main, storm sewer, pavement, sidewalk brick, trees, and street lights.
During construction, portions of the sidewalk will remain open to allow for access to area businesses. The community can stay updated on the progress by signing up for email and/or text notifications at bit.ly/cfdowntown.
Phase 2 work is planned to be completed before Thanksgiving. The City is happy to report a grant of $574,800 from the Black Hawk Gaming Association in January 2021 to aid in the project.
Phase 3 to Begin in 2022
Phase 3 of the Downtown Streetscape will begin during the 2022 construction season. During that time, East 3rd Street will receive the same improvements while West 5th Street (from Washington Street to Main Street) will receive a new asphalt surface, concrete curb, and gutter, and streetscaping elements. Following the conclusion of Phase 3 in 2022, the planned public work in the Downtown area will be complete. Learn more about the project at bit.ly/cfdowntown.