COVID-19 Update Archive
Diligence Needed as COVID-19 Surges in Cedar Rapids | August 20, 2021
Cedar Rapids Mayor Brad Hart is encouraging Cedar Rapids area residents and visitors to take extra precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community.
The Mayor and Cedar Rapids officials have been in regular contact with local health officials from hospitals and Linn County Public Health, and are monitoring the situation locally. Linn County is currently in a high transmission or "red" area as defined by the CDC.
Mayor Hart is asking residents to act with increased diligence in light of this new information. In areas with substantial and high transmission, CDC recommends that everyone - including fully vaccinated individuals - wear a mask in public indoor settings to help prevent spread of the Delta variant and to keep your family safe. Scientific studies have shown that face coverings over the mouth and nose significantly reduce the spread of the coronavirus.
The CDC recommends all individuals 12 and older should get vaccinated. Individuals who are fully vaccinated with Pfizer or Moderna and are moderately to severely immunocompromised should receive a third dose. On August 18, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a plan to offer booster vaccines for the general population this fall. COVID vaccinations are readily available and everyone is encouraged to be vaccinated.
City Modifies Protocols Following Updated CDC Guidance | August 3, 2021
Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidance to protect communities from the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant. The CDC recommends those in an area of substantial or high transmission wear a mask indoors in public, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated. As of today, the Linn County area is coded as “red” signifying a high level of community transmission.
To maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others, all visitors to City-owned buildings will be required to wear a mask while inside the building. The mask policy is effective Tuesday, August 3, 2021. The policy applies to all visitors, whether they are vaccinated or not vaccinated.
The health and safety of visitors to City buildings is our primary concern. This policy is in accordance with both CDC and Linn County Public Health recommendations.
All City buildings remain open to the public with the mask policy in effect.
If you choose not to conduct City business in person, City services to the public continue to be fully operational and available online, via telephone and by email. Departments are making efforts to ensure minimal disruption to public services, while taking necessary COVID-19 precautions.
Visit our Department Directory to view a full list of city services and contact information. Please call or email us with your needs. City staff is available and ready to assist residents in a safe and efficient manner.
The City also encourages use of the Mobile CR application, which includes My CR where you can submit comments, questions, and concerns; follow up on issues you're tracking; and see reports filed all across town.
Mayor Brad Hart Lifts Cedar Rapids Mask Mandate | May 20, 2021
To comply with the newly enacted state law formally removing local control of mask requirements, the City of Cedar Rapids’ mask mandate has been rescinded. Private businesses continue to have the right to require masks within their locations.
The City of Cedar Rapids encourages those who are unvaccinated to continue to wear masks, social distance, and stay home if you are sick.
Mayor Brad Hart Further Modifies Cedar Rapids Mask Mandate | May 14, 2021
To provide consistency with the most recent CDC guidelines, Cedar Rapids Mayor Brad Hart has further modified the mask mandate in place for the City of Cedar Rapids.
The updated language allows for residents and visitors who are fully vaccinated to resume activities without wearing masks or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal or territorial laws, rules or regulations, including local business and workplace guidance. The complete modified mask mandate document is available below.
“Again, I want to thank all those who have followed the COVID-19 guidelines, including wearing masks all these months, and those who have been vaccinated” said Mayor Hart. “This is yet another reason to be vaccinated as soon as possible.”
The COVID-19 protocols for City of Cedar Rapids Transit will remain in effect, as required by federal law. The Cedar Rapids Public Library will also continue to require masks at this time.
Individual businesses have the ability to require masks within their locations. Patrons should abide by those requirements, as local businesses continue to work to keep their customers and employees safe and healthy.
May 14, 2021 Mask Proclamation
Mayor Brad Hart Modifies Cedar Rapids Mask Mandate | May 3, 2021
In order to provide consistency with the most recent CDC guidelines, Cedar Rapids Mayor Brad Hart has modified the mask mandate in place for the City of Cedar Rapids.
The updated language allows for residents and visitors who are fully vaccinated to gather indoors with other vaccinated people without wearing masks or staying at least six feet apart, and to conduct activities outdoors without the use of masks-except masks will still be required in large (50 or more), crowded outdoor settings and venues where it is not possible for groups or individual attendees to take reasonable public health measures to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 (stay six feet apart). The Cedar Rapids mask mandate remains in place with the changes outlined in the May 3, 2021 proclamation. The change to the Cedar Rapids mask mandate only applies to fully vaccinated people, and allows them to:
- gather together with other fully vaccinated people without masks or social distancing; and
- to be outside without masks unless they are in a crowd where social distancing is not practical or practiced.
Restaurant and retail businesses are not affected by this change because they cannot confirm everyone is vaccinated, and they are not outside.
“I would like to thank all those who are following the covid-19 guidelines, including wearing masks,” said Mayor Hart. “As more and more people are being vaccinated we are closer to having the herd immunity needed to safely relax the precautions in place that protect the health of our citizens. These changes are a positive step, but it is not the time to let our guard down. I encourage everyone to be vaccinated as soon as possible because we cannot afford to take a step backward in this fight against the COVID virus. With everyone’s help we hope to end the mandate very soon.”
May 3, 2021 Mask Proclamation
Mayor Brad Hart Vaccine PSA Video
City of Cedar Rapids Mayor Issues Mask Mandate | September 2, 2020
Cedar Rapids Mayor Brad Hart signed an emergency proclamation making face coverings mandatory in public places throughout Cedar Rapids, whenever proper social distance cannot be maintained. The mandate is effective immediately. Scientific studies have shown that face coverings over the mouth and nose significantly reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Read more...
Proclamation
Mask Mandate Frequently Asked Questions
City of Cedar Rapids Public Services Available | September 2, 2020
City services to the public continue to be fully operational and available online, via phone and by email. Departments are making efforts to ensure minimal disruption to public services, while taking necessary COVID-19 precautions. Read more…
Public-Private Partnership Supports Local Restaurants, Families | June 26, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids, in partnership with the Cedar Rapids Community School District, is increasing food distribution to families in need while at the same time supporting local restaurants. Read more…
2020 Cedar Rapids Fire Department Fire Bowl Canceled | June 26
The Cedar Rapids Firefighters Foundation has canceled the 2020 Fire Bowl due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. The Fire Bowl was scheduled for August, however, COVID-19 remains a serious consideration for event organizers. Read more…
Noelridge Farmers' Market to Open July 1 | June 26
The Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department will open the Noelridge Farmers’ Market, on the corner of Collins Road and Council Street NE, on Wednesday, July 1 at 4:00 p.m. Read more…
Fire Department to Turn on Fire Hydrants for Water Play | June 30, 2020
The Cedar Rapids Fire Department will turn on fire hydrants for water play at Rollin’ Recmobile stops at Cherry Hill, Delaney and Bever Parks. Read more…
City of Cedar Rapids Facility Closures Extended | June 30, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids is extending building closures to the public through July 20, 2020. Closed facilities include City Hall, City Services Center, Cedar Rapids Water Administration, Central Fire Station, Animal Care and Control, Cedar Rapids Police Station,and NW Recreation Center. Read more…
Public-Private Partnership Supports Local Restaurants, Families | June 26, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids, in partnership with the Cedar Rapids Community School District, is increasing food distribution to families in need while at the same time supporting local restaurants. Read more…
2020 Cedar Rapids Fire Department Fire Bowl Canceled | June 26
The Cedar Rapids Firefighters Foundation has canceled the 2020 Fire Bowl due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. The Fire Bowl was scheduled for August, however, COVID-19 remains a serious consideration for event organizers. Read more…
Noelridge Farmers' Market to Open July 1 | June 26
The Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department will open the Noelridge Farmers’ Market, on the corner of Collins Road and Council Street NE, on Wednesday, July 1 at 4:00 p.m. Read more…
Rollin' Recmobilke to Visit Cedar Rapids Parks | June 19
The Rollin’ Recmobile, a mobile recreation program that brings recreation opportunities to neighborhoods, will begin to visit Cedar Rapids parks next week. Read more…
Cedar Rapids Splash Pads to Reopen | June 15
The Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department has begun to open splash pads in parks. The process to turn on eleven splash pads will take two days, with all splash pads anticipated to be open and working by Wednesday, June 17. Read more…
Mask Drive Results in Thousands of Donated Cloth Masks | June 5
The City of Cedar Rapids would like to thank the many volunteers and community groups who invested time and resources to create and donate cloth face masks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Between April and May, more than 3,300 masks were donated! Read more...
Streamlined Permit Process Supports Outdoor Service Area for Retail | June 2
To support commercial business' ability to serve patrons while also following social distancing guidelines, the City of Cedar Rapids has created a streamlined process to allow temporary outdoor service areas on private property and public sidewalk areas. Read more…
Lift Up Local! | June 2
To encourage support of local restaurants and retail businesses, the Cedar Rapids City Council is offering 150 people the chance to win a $25 gift card. Read more…
June Parks & Recreation Youth Programs Canceled; Rollin' Recmobile to Launch | June 1
Following review of health guidelines for youth programming, the Parks and Recreation Department has decided to cancel youth programs scheduled to start in June. However, the Rollin’ Recmobile, a mobile recreation program that will bring recreation opportunities to neighborhoods, is tentatively scheduled to launch on June 22. Read more…
City Launches Eviction Prevention Program | May 29, 2020
The program provides low to moderate-income households impacted by COVID-19 with rent and utility payment assistance. Read more…
Bike Share Program Returns | May 29, 2020
Cedar Rapids’ Bike Share program is returning this year. Bikes and scooters will begin arriving within the next two weeks (first two weeks of June). Read more…
Cedar Rapids Park Amenities to Reopen June 1 | May 28, 2020
The Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department announces the reopening of many park amenities on June 1. Read more…
City of Cedar Rapids Facility Closures Extended | May 28, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids is extending building closures to the public through July 6, 2020. Closed facilities include City Hall, City Services Center, Cedar Rapids Water Administration, Central Fire Station, Animal Care and Control, Cedar Rapids Police Station,and NW Recreation Center. Read more…
Municipal Pools to Stay Closed | May 14, 2020
To protect the safety of employees and the public, the City of Cedar Rapids will not open Bever, Bender, Jones, Ellis, Cherry Hill and Noelridge Pools and Aquatic Centers this summer. Read more…
City of Cedar Rapids Transit Service Resumes Monday | May 14, 2020
City of Cedar Rapids Transit service will resume beginning Monday, May 18, 2020. Transit Service will be available on weekdays, Monday through Friday from 5:15 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with hourly service on all routes except for Route 5, which will run in 15 minute intervals. There will be no weekday peak service or Saturday service at this time. Read more…
Business Reopening Toolkit Now Available | May 11, 2020
A comprehensive business reopening guide is now available for businesses to use as they begin to restart operations. Download Toolkit… Review FAQ…
Garbage, Recycling & Yard Waste Collection Returns to Normal | May 10, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids Solid Waste & Recycling division announces a full return to normal collection services effective Monday, May 11. Previously, the division adjusted collection procedures to reduce the risk of worker exposure to COVID-19 by limiting the need to exit collection vehicles to retrieve refuse. Read more…
Bike to Work Week Postponed Until September | May 5, 2020
To encourage safe and responsible social distancing practices during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bike to Work Week activities – traditionally held in May – will be postponed and are tentatively scheduled for September 21-27, 2020. Read more…
City of Cedar Rapids Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19 | May 4, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids was notified over the weekend that an employee tested positive for COVID-19. Read more…
City of Cedar Rapids Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19 | April 29, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids was alerted today that a Cedar Rapids Police Department employee has tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Read more…
Gardner and Ellis Golf Courses and Disc Golf to Open | April 29, 2020
Following Iowa Department of Public Health guidelines, Gardner Golf Course will reopen to the public on Friday, May 1. Ellis Golf Course will open for the season on Monday, May 4. The Parks and Recreation Department will also be reinstalling baskets to reopen disc golf next week. Read more…
Facility Closures and Transit Service Suspension Extended | April 28, 2020
In order to follow updated guidelines provided by the State of Iowa and the Iowa Department of Public Health, the City of Cedar Rapids is extending building closures and Cedar Rapids Transit Service until May 15, 2020. Read more…
CR Strong – In This Together Video | April 24, 2020
Our Cedar Rapids City Council would like to thank the entire Cedar Rapids community for stepping up during this crisis. It hasn’t been easy— but it is easier when we support each other and all work together. And together, our community will come back stronger than ever. Thank you for doing your part to keep Cedar Rapids Strong. Watch video…
City of Cedar Rapids Seeks Cloth Mask Donations | April 24, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids is calling on community volunteers to help create and donate cloth masks, which will be distributed to local service agencies and community members in need. Donations will be accpted until May 15, 2020. Read more…
Cedar Rapids to Host Virtual City Council Meeting | April 23, 2020
The Cedar Rapids City Council meeting for Tuesday April 28, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. will be hosted virtually. The meeting will be streamed live on the City’s Facebook page and indexed videos will be available on the City’s website. Read more…
Noelridge Greenhouse Online Plant Sale | April 23, 2020
The Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department has launched an online sale of plants and flowers produced at the Noelridge Greenhouse. Thousands of plants, many unique to the facility and not available at other area nurseries, are normally sold at the Mother’s Day Open House, which has been canceled. Read more…
May Parks and Recreation Programs Impacted by COVID-19 | April 22, 2020
Due to the COVID-19 virus, the Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department announces changes to programs and events originally scheduled to be held in May. Read more…
Stay Strong Together with Crush the Curve Virtual Marathon | April 17, 2020
Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation is offering a 30-day virtual challenge: Crush the Curve Marathon to help residents stay active while social distancing. Not a runner? No worries. Work out instead. Read more…
Gardner Golf Course, Disc Golf Closed; Trail Recommendations Issued | April 16, 2020
Due to the Public Health Emergency Proclamation for Linn County issued by Governor Reynolds, Gardner Golf Course and disc golf courses within Cedar Rapids parks will be closed through April 30 as determined by the proclamation. Parks, trails and dog parks will remain open. New recommendations for using local trails have been issued. Read more…
Governor Adds Protective Measures for RMCC Region 6 | April 16, 2020
Gov. Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the State Public Health Emergency Declaration and implementing additional measures to protect residents, workers, and the public in RMCC Region 6, which includes Linn County. Read more…
Building Services Update | April 14, 2020
Learn how the Building Services Department continues to conduct safety code inspections during the COVID-19 outbreak. Watch video…
Cedar Rapids to Host Virtual City Council Meeting | April 9, 2020
The Cedar Rapids City Council meeting for Tuesday April 14, 2020 at noon will be hosted virtually. The meeting will be streamed live on the City’s Facebook page and indexed videos will be available on the City’s website. Read more…
New Podcast: COVID-19 Response with Unified Command | April 8, 2020
The latest Inside Cedar Rapids podcast episode features Cedar Rapids Fire Department Training Chief and member of the State of Iowa Incident Management Team, Jason Andrews, talking about the City’s response to COVID-19, the Unified Command structure, and how the community is working together to respond to this pandemic. Listen to podcast…
Garbage, Recycling & Yard Waste Collection Reminders | April 7, 2020
Following CDC and public health guidance, the City of Cedar Rapids Solid Waste and Recycling division has adjusted collection procedures to reduce the risk of worker exposure to coronavirus. Read more…
City Facility Closures and Transit Service Suspension Extended | April 6, 2020
In order to follow updated social distancing guidelines provided by the State of Iowa and the Iowa Department of Public Health, the City of Cedar Rapids is extending building closures until April 30, 2020. Suspension of Cedar Rapids Transit Service is also extended through April 30, 2020 Read more…
The Governor expands State of Public Health Disaster Emergency | April 6, 2020
Effective 8:00 a.m., April 7, 2020, and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on April 30, 2020, the following additional closures and orders will be in effect. Read more…
Development Services Update | April 3, 2020
While many of Development Services' day-to-day activities have slowed in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, staff remain committed to helping private development continue to move forward. Watch video…
Online Database of Business Resources | April 2, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids, along with The Gazette and area service providers, have launched an online database of business resources to help mitigate the economic impact of COVID-19. Read more…
Additional Park Facilities Closed for Social Distancing | April 2, 2020
Due to the COVID-19 virus, and the difficulty in following social distancing guidelines when using some park facilities, the City of Cedar Rapids has closed the Riverside Skate Park, outdoor basketball courts, volleyball courts, sand volleyball courts, tennis courts, and baseball fields. Playgrounds and outdoor exercise stations were closed previously and remain closed. Read more…
April Parks and Recreation Programs Impacted by COVID-19 | April 1, 2020
Due to the COVID-19 virus, the Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department announces changes to programs and events originally scheduled to be held in April. Read more…
Solid Waste & Recycling Division Suggests “Spring Cleaning” Delay | March 26, 2020
Following CDC and public health guidance, the City of Cedar Rapids Solid Waste and Recycling division has adjusted collection procedures to reduce the risk of worker exposure to coronavirus. Read more…
The Governor expands State of Public Health Disaster Emergency | March 26, 2020
Effective 10:00 p.m., March 26, 2020, and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on April 7, 2020, the following nonessential retail establishments shall be closed. Read more…
Online Reporting Tool Available for Police Calls for Service, Reporting, and Records Requests | March 25, 2020
To protect the health and safety of our police officers, the Police Department is asking the community to use our online reporting tools as much as possible. Read more…
Cedar Rapids Park Playgrounds and Outdoor Exercise Stations Closed | March 25, 2020
For the health and safety of the public, due to COVID-19, the City of Cedar Rapids is temporarily closing playgrounds and outdoor exercise stations in parks. Parks, trails and dog parks will remain open. Read more…
Park CR Downtown Parking Update | March 25, 2020
Cedar Rapids’ downtown parking system has enacted changes to provide assistance to downtown workers and businesses during this time. Effective immediately:
- On-street parking regulations remain in effect for safety and control purposes only, with enforcement limited to public safety concerns and situations in which violators are significantly impeding businesses or city services.
- Monthly permit parking fees are waived for April.
Rumor Control and Trusted Sources | March 24, 2020
As we continue our efforts of promoting official, verified information, we wanted to provide residents with a list of trusted sources. View list…
Cedar Rapids Transit Update | March 23, 2020
City of Cedar Rapids Transit will suspend fixed-route transit service effective this Wednesday, March 25 as an additional measure to limit the potential spread of COVID-19. Read more…
Linn County Public Health Confirms Local COVID-19 Cases | March 21, 2020
Linn County Public Health (LCPH) is closely monitoring the spread of coronavirus and announced the first laboratory diagnosed cases of COVID-19 in Linn County over the weekend. Read more…
City of Cedar Rapids March 24 City Council Meeting Canceled | March 18, 2020
The upcoming City of Cedar Rapids City Council meeting scheduled for March 24 has been canceled. Agenda items for the meeting will be postponed to a future date.
Water Division Update | March 17, 2020
(Revised for clarity: 3-24-2020)
Access to clean water is important to the public health of our community. The Utilities Department recognizes the particularly critical role its water supply can play in promoting proper sanitation to curb the spread of coronavirus.
Hand washing is important for preventing the spread of COVID-19. To comply with public health guidance, the Department will temporarily suspend water service termination for delinquent accounts until further notice. Late payment charges are not being applied to customers' accounts at this time. Charges for Utility services (Water, Sewer, Storm Water, and Solid Waste) continue to be billed to our customers based on daily charges and the customer’s actual Water and Sewer volumetric usage/consumption. We encourage those who are having difficulties making payments to contact our customer service team to discuss options for paying their account balance.
While walk-in access to the Water Administration building is temporarily suspended, the City of Cedar Rapids offers several ways to complete payments and fulfill its customer service needs:
- Online Payments at www.CityofCR.com/Water
- Customer Service by Phone at 319-286-5900
- Drop Boxes at City Hall and Water Administration Building are still in service
The COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking-water supplies. Based on current evidence, the risk to our water supply is low. EPA recommends that Americans continue to use and drink tap water as usual. According to the CDC, washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Read more in our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Sewer & WPC Update | March 17, 2020
The Sewer division reminds customers that, apart from wastewater, only the “Three P’s” can go down the drain — toilet Paper, Poo, and Pee.
“Flushable” wipes are not safe for the sewer system and — like fats, oils, and grease — can cause build up and clog pipes.
The toilet is NOT a trash can. Please do not flush:
- Baby wipes
- Kitchen cleaning/disinfecting wipes
- Makeup removal pads
- Paper towels
- Tissues
- Toilet brush pads
- Diapers or nursing pads
- Feminine hygiene products
- Personal care products
Find more information from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies at https://www.nacwa.org/toilets
City Facilities Close to the Public | March 16, 2020
In an effort to limit public interactions and gatherings, several City of Cedar Rapids facilities will be closed to the general public effective through April 13, 2020.
This includes:
- City Hall (101 1st St SE)
- City Services Center (500 15th Avenue SW)
- Cedar Rapids Water Administration (1111 Shaver Road NE)
- Central Fire Station (713 1st Ave SE)
- Animal Care and Control (900 76th Ave Dr SW)
- Cedar Rapids Police Station (505 1st St SW)
Emergency services continue. Services to the public are still operational and available either online or via phone or email. Departments are making efforts to ensure minimal disruption to public services during this time. A drop-box will be installed outside the City Services Center front lobby doors for those dropping off permits, payment, or other paperwork that would normally be dropped off in person at the front counter. A drop-box is also available at the front of City Hall.
Utilities divisions housed within the Water Administration building are still operational and services provided — including water customer service, metering, and engineering — will be available online or via phone or email. All public meetings scheduled in the Stephen J. Cook Memorial Conference room at the Water Administration building have been canceled.
Lost or missing animals recovered by Animal Care and Control may be reclaimed by the owner; however, the owner must call ahead first. Animal adoption visits will be available by appointment only. Animal Care and Control will not be accepting the owner surrender of animals through May 15 (with the exception of owner-requested euthanasia). Animal Care and Control can be reached at 319-286-5993.
At the Cedar Rapids Police Station, the front desk will remain accessible; however, citizens are asked to call ahead, as many services can be handled over the phone. Please call 319-286-5491.
View a Full List of Online Resources
Cedar Rapids is Requesting all Cedar Rapids Bars and Restaurants Close for St. Patrick’s Day and Limit Ongoing Patron Activity | March 16, 2020
The City of Cedar Rapids is requesting all Cedar Rapids bars and restaurants close for St. Patrick’s Day to discourage citizens from congregating in large crowds. Based on health advice related to the spread of COVID-19, City officials believe allowing normal St. Patrick’s Day activity will cause a public safety hazard.
Restaurants and bars are also asked to significantly limit patron activity starting Monday March 16 as part of an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
Restaurants and bars should adhere to the following guidelines:
- No more than 25 people may be present at the same time
- Bar seating is suspended
- Standing patrons should not be served
- Individual tables may not seat more than six people
- Occupied tables and booths must be separated by at least six feet
- Waiting patrons should not congregate in lobby/waiting areas or outside entrances
- Encourage carry out and delivery food orders
The city is encouraging residents to order delivery, carry out food, or use drive thru services in order to avoid crowds dining in at restaurants.
Parks and Recreation Facilities Closed and Programs Canceled | March 15, 2020
The Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department will cancel all recreation programs and close facilities, excluding Gardner Golf Course and administrative offices, beginning Monday, March 16. Facilities closed include Bender Pool, Northwest Recreation Center, Tait Cummins Sports Complex, and Tuma Sports Complex. Program cancellations include youth spring break camps and programs, open swim and water exercise, open gym at Northwest Recreation Center, and the Capitol City Open. Closures are consistent with the request by City of Cedar Rapids Officials for residents to practice social distancing.
Social distancing measures are taken to restrict when and where people can gather to stop or slow the spread of infectious diseases. Cedar Rapids residents, especially senior citizens and those with underlying health conditions, are asked to think carefully about attending events and large gatherings.
City Officials Encourage Social Distancing | March 13, 2020
City of Cedar Rapids Officials are encouraging residents to closely monitor current reports related to COVID-19 and to make responsible, personal decisions to avoid becoming ill or spreading illness to others. One important practice recommended by the World Health Organization includes personal “social distancing” to slow the transmission of COVID-19.
Social distancing measures are taken to restrict when and where people can gather to stop or slow the spread of infectious diseases. Social distancing measures can include limiting large groups of people coming together, including canceling events. Many local and regional educational institutions, special events, and businesses are announcing efforts to encourage social distancing and advise patrons on staying home when they are ill.
“We’re encouraging all Cedar Rapids residents, especially our senior citizens and those with underlying health conditions, to think carefully about attending events and large gatherings,” said Cedar Rapids Mayor Brad Hart.
“The safety and well-being of residents is our top priority,” said Cedar Rapids City Manager Jeff Pomeranz. “I encourage residents to make good decisions to help prevent spread of the virus in our community.”
Based on current information, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Linn County. Local officials continue to work with public health officials and local healthcare providers and will inform the public as conditions evolve.
