City of Cedar Rapids Parks & Rec Department

The Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department has completed a master plan that will aid in planning for the next fifteen years. The plan includes future development of parks, indoor recreation, riverfront and greenway, and trail connections between parks. Recommendations have been developed as a result of analysis of the current system, needs assessment surveys, and a public participation process which involved over 1,000 individuals. The plan will also address growth of the system, operational efficiencies and best practices in other communities. | The City of Cedar Rapids enjoys a long history of serving the recreational needs of the community. In 1894, the first standing park committee was established to manage and oversee park system operations. Several years later, in 1908, parks were placed under the jurisdiction of the Commissioner of Parks and Public Property. Formerly known as the Playground Commission, the Recreation Department was created in 1924 by a referendum passed by Cedar Rapids voters. Due to the financial challenges of the 1930?s, the Playground Commission came under the control of the City Council for several years. The Council oversaw the department and adopted rules and regulations for playgrounds and recreation centers, while managing expenditures, salaries, and terms of employment The Recreation Commission continually strived to serve the needs of a changing community by implementing garden programs, which in turn produced food to feed needy families during the Depression, and by hiring WPA workers to lead various programs. Creation of the Riverside Roundhouse in 1971 and renovation of the Buchanan School into a recreation center in 1975 expanded the staff and services offered to citizens of Cedar Rapids. Programming for individuals with disabilities began as early as 1938, and in 1954, a playground program was formed for children with developmental disabilities. In 2005, the City changed from a Commission to a City Manager/Council form of government, and the separate Parks Department and Recreation Department were consolidated into one department, along with the Ushers Ferry Historic Village Department and the Golf Department. This Parks & Recreation Master Plan will provide a guiding framework for the Parks and Recreation Department.

Dedicated to provide and enhance a quality parks and recreation system through creative, affordable and sustainable programs and professional services enriching the lives of the community and its visitors, now and in the future.