Cedar Rapids launches spring street program with nearly 60 projects, including 12th Avenue SE rebuild

Cedar Rapids crews have started nearly 60 street projects this spring, Public Works Director Brenna Fall said, marking the latest phase of the city's voter-supported Paving for Progress program.

Among the first projects underway is the 12th Avenue SE Rail Crossing and Pavement Improvements. The work includes safety upgrades at the Union Pacific railroad crossing — new lights, crossing gates and medians — along with an asphalt overlay, new curbs and sidewalks, a water main replacement and storm-sewer upgrades.

Streets Operations Manager Mike Duffy said crews monitor pothole complaints from residents to prioritize temporary repairs, and 12th Avenue Southeast is among the locations tracked. "We are seeing a lot of potholes in areas that are slated for reconstruction though that program. So we're really looking forward to those areas being rebuilt," Duffy said.

David Beer, who has owned 5 Seasons Auto Rebuilders for nearly 40 years, knows the freeze-thaw cycle makes lasting repairs difficult this time of year. Duffy described the same conditions: "It is challenging when you get that water freezing in the pothole cause as it warms up they pop back up again."

Fall called Paving for Progress a critical resource: "The City of Cedar Rapids is extremely fortunate to have a voter-supported funding source like Paving for Progress."

The spring program is expected to continue through the season.