News Release
06/23/20
The Cedar Rapids Public Works Department is taking measures to address flood stage river levels. The Cedar River is currently projected to crest on Thursday at just under 16 feet, which is considered moderate flood stage. With protection measures in place, public impact will be minimal, and will consist primarily of road closures in low-lying areas.
Crews have closed Otis Road SE, from Prairie Park Fishery to Cargill, with additional road closures to come, including:
- Ellis Road NW west of Edgewood Road NW
· Old River Road SW
· Ellis Boulevard NW from Ellis Lane NW to 18th Street NW
· 1st Street NW between Penn Avenue and K Avenue
Flood measures include plugging underground storm sewer drains in low-lying areas and stationing pumps nearby, the closure of low-lying roads, and placing concrete cylinders over low-lying stormwater inlets.
Motorists are asked to heed all road closure barricades and to turn around if there is water on the roadway. Just six inches of water can cause a vehicle to stall or lose control.
The Cedar Rapids Fire Department will be closing boat ramps at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday. Boats and other water craft are discouraged from being on the Cedar River when the river level is at 13 feet or higher. This is due to the increased risk of boating accidents with swift moving water, strong currents, and rapidly moving debris.
Ramps will be closed until the Cedar River falls below 13 feet, which is currently forecast to occur by Sunday morning..
Residents can find updated flood response information on the City’s website: www.cedar-rapids.org