Cedar Rapids officials turn attention to flood-damaged commercial properties

With more than 1,000 buyouts of flood-damaged residential property now complete, City Hall has turned its attention to flood-damaged commercial property.

The city reports that it now has acquired 71 commercial properties through the buyout program, which is funded primarily with federal dollars.

At its meeting this evening, the City Council will address 63 properties and discuss what to do if someone wants to redevelop a commercial property once it is bought out and headed for demolition. Of the 63, 11 are vacant lots or parking lots.

According to a city staff report to the council, interested parties have inquired about six of the 63 properties - two of which are in the greenway or construction zone for the city's proposed flood-protection system; three of which are in the 100-year flood plain; and one of which is significantly damaged but outside the 100-year flood plain and greenway and construction zones.

The staff report notes that the federal disaster funding used in the buyouts comes with strict rules related to redeveloping property in the 100-year flood plain, which nearly all the properties are in.

City staff has rated the 52 commercial properties with buildings on them by a score of 1, 2 or 3, which represent minimal damage (four properties), moderate damage (24 properties) and significant damage (24 properties).

Included in the 52 are the former A&W drive-up restaurant at 1132 Ellis Blvd. NW, moderate damage; the Jack Henry Salon, 1895 Ellis Blvd. NW, moderate damage; the Boys and Girls Club on Ellis Boulevard NW, moderate damage; Salem United Methodist Church, 221 First Ave. SW, moderate damage; and the Saddle & Leather Shop at 48 and 50 16th Ave. SW in Czech Village, significant damage.