Cedar Rapids Will Break Ground on That New Pedestrian Bridge Today

It's finally happening! Today, April 29th, construction will officially begin on the new Alliant Energy LightLine!

What is the Alliant Energy LightLine?

According to the official press release from ConnectCR, the Alliant Energy LightLine is a new pedestrian bridge/trail that "will connect New Bohemia and Czech Village and provide a safe, non-vehicle crossing of the Cedar River for walkers, bicyclists, families, and others." Part of it is set to a replace an old railroad bridge that was destroyed in the Flood of '08. It will also help to better connect the area to the national American Discovery Trail and Great American Rail-Trail.

The bridge will be 18-feet wide and include a 165-foot tall LED-lighted tower, as well as a split deck. Both ends of the bridge will have "park-like settings" that will include amenities and plaques that honor Cedar Rapids' history.

What Else is Included in the Project?

In addition to the massive bridge, ConnectCR is also revitalizing Cedar Lake. The project will see the addition of a boardwalk that extends over the lake, new launch/landing docks for kayakers and canoers, new fishing jetties, informational signage about plants and wildlife in the area, enhanced park entrances, a challenge course/playground, and floating islands. The groundbreaking for that project was back in October of 2021. You can check out the Master Plan for Cedar Lake HERE.

When is the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Bridge?

The ceremony will be held today, Tuesday, April 29th beginning at 10 a.m. inside of the 948’ Building at Mount Trashmore. In addition to the groundbreaking, ConnectCR is also set to reveal "a new, recently discovered historic landmark to be included in the eastside landing of the bridge, where landscaping and signage will pay tribute to the region’s history."

How Long is the Project Expected to Take?

According to the latest update on ConnectCR's website (from December 2024), the majority of the project is expected to be done by the end of this year. You can read the full update HERE.