CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — A faded brick storefront in Cedar Rapids’ historic Time Czech neighborhood is experiencing a remarkable revival, fueled by a grassroots fundraising effort and the dedication of local volunteers. The building, a silent witness to decades of change and severely damaged in the devastating 2008 floods, is poised for a modern life as an architectural salvage shop and community gathering space, a testament to the power of collective action and a commitment to preserving the city’s heritage.
The project, spearheaded by the non-profit organization Save CR Heritage, gained significant momentum with the “Brick by Brick Finish Line” fundraiser. The campaign tapped into the community’s deep connection to the Time Czech neighborhood, a historically vibrant area known for its unique architecture and strong sense of identity. The effort to restore this building represents more than just bricks and mortar; it’s about reclaiming a piece of Cedar Rapids’ past and building a foundation for its future.
“We acquired that building last year and now we’re working on everything we need to get our occupancy permit,” said Nikki Halvorson, president of Save CR Heritage. “It’s been a long process, but seeing the community rally around this project has been incredibly inspiring.” The building, originally constructed in the 1920s as a pharmacy, has sat vacant since the catastrophic flooding of 2008, a stark reminder of the city’s vulnerability to natural disasters. According to the City of Cedar Rapids’ official flood recovery website, the 2008 floods caused over $311 million in damages to public infrastructure and private property.
A Neighborhood’s History, Reclaimed
The Time Czech neighborhood, officially known as the Czech Village/New Bohemia Main Street District, holds a special place in Cedar Rapids’ history. Settled by Czech immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area quickly became a thriving commercial and cultural hub. The architectural style of the buildings, many of which date back to the 1920s, reflects the neighborhood’s unique heritage. The building at the heart of this restoration project is a prime example of that architectural character, featuring intricate brickwork and large display windows.
Save CR Heritage purchased the property in 2023, recognizing its potential to become a valuable asset to the community. The organization, founded in 2018, focuses on preserving and revitalizing historic buildings in Cedar Rapids. Their work extends beyond individual structures; they aim to foster a broader appreciation for the city’s architectural legacy. The J-E Halvorson House, also operated by Save CR Heritage, serves as a successful model for their approach, functioning as a salvage shop that supports preservation efforts.
The “Brick by Brick” fundraiser proved to be a creative and effective way to engage the community. Donors who contributed $100 or more had their names inscribed on a brick that will be incorporated into the building’s facade, creating a lasting tribute to their support. “It’s what helped us secure the storefront building, so definitely successful,” Halvorson explained. The fundraiser generated significant funds, but substantial work remains to be done.
Beyond Fundraising: The Work Ahead
While the “Brick by Brick” campaign provided a crucial financial boost, the restoration project requires significant investment in infrastructure upgrades. The building needs extensive work on its HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems to meet modern safety standards and ensure its long-term viability. These updates represent a substantial portion of the overall project cost.
“We’re all volunteers with day jobs, so anyone interested in helping or donating—we’d love to hear from you,” Halvorson emphasized. The project relies heavily on the dedication of volunteers with a range of skills, from carpentry and plumbing to fundraising and marketing. The organization is actively seeking individuals willing to contribute their time and expertise to help bring the project to fruition.
The planned architectural salvage shop will offer a unique resource for homeowners, contractors, and anyone interested in preserving historic building materials. Salvaged items, such as doors, windows, and fixtures, will be carefully restored and made available for purchase, diverting materials from landfills and promoting sustainable building practices. The community space within the building will provide a venue for workshops, meetings, and other events, fostering a sense of connection and collaboration.
The Broader Impact of Preservation
The restoration of this building is part of a larger trend of historic preservation efforts in Cedar Rapids. Recognizing the economic and cultural benefits of preserving its architectural heritage, the city has implemented various programs to support preservation projects. These initiatives include tax credits, grants, and technical assistance for property owners. According to the Iowa State Historic Preservation Office, historic preservation contributes to economic development by attracting tourism, creating jobs, and enhancing property values.
The revitalization of the Time Czech neighborhood is also seen as a key component of Cedar Rapids’ broader economic development strategy. By creating a vibrant and attractive destination, the city hopes to attract new businesses and residents, boosting the local economy and enhancing the quality of life for all.
The success of the Save CR Heritage project hinges on continued community support. The organization is actively seeking donations of materials, labor, and financial resources. They are also looking for volunteers to assist with various tasks, from demolition and construction to fundraising and marketing.
Looking Ahead
With the major fundraising phase complete, Save CR Heritage is now focused on securing the necessary permits and completing the infrastructure upgrades. Halvorson anticipates that the building will be ready to open its doors to the public in late 2024 or early 2025. The opening will mark a significant milestone in the revitalization of the Time Czech neighborhood and a testament to the power of community collaboration.
The next key step for the project is the finalization of the occupancy permit, which requires inspections and approvals from the City of Cedar Rapids. Save CR Heritage is working closely with city officials to ensure that the building meets all safety and code requirements. Updates on the project’s progress can be found on the organization’s website, Save CR Heritage.
The restoration of this 1920s storefront is a powerful reminder that preserving our past can help build a brighter future. What are your thoughts on this community-led revitalization effort? Share your comments below and help spread the word about this inspiring project.
