The Alliant Energy LightLine™

ConnectCR is replacing a washed-out railroad bridge, partially destroyed in the historic 2008 flood, with an iconic new bridge to connect the NewBo and Czech Village neighborhoods, as well as the east and west sides of Cedar Rapids.  The bridge will be called the Alliant Energy LightLine™.

The LightLine™ will feature a striking 165-foot LED-illuminated tower that will bring light and energy to an area of the city once left in darkness. The tower’s exterior and interior lighting will serve as a new visual landmark for Cedar Rapids—symbolizing connection, renewal, and progress.
A generous donation from ITC Midwest is making this state-of-the-art lighting possible.

Park-like spaces on both sides of the Alliant Energy LightLine™ will invite visitors to reflect on the history that shaped Cedar Rapids. Interpretive signs will share stories of industry, agriculture, manufacturing, railroads, and the immigrant communities whose hard work and vision helped build the city we know today.

The Alliant Energy LightLine™ features a split-deck design on the west side of the river, thoughtfully created to accommodate both movement and pause. One side will serve bicyclists and walkers passing through, while the other invites visitors to stop, take in the views, and experience the beauty of the Cedar River and downtown skyline.

The east landing of the bridge will feature a welcoming, park-like gathering space with community amenities and areas for rest and reflection. On the west side, a striking tower and lookout point will offer sweeping views of the Cedar River and downtown skyline. At 18 feet wide, the bridge provides generous space for bicyclists, runners, walkers, and families to safely share the trail.

ConnectCR strengthens the Cedar Valley Nature Trail and its links to two national, coast-to-coast routes—the American Discovery Trail and the Great American Rail-Trail—both of which pass through Cedar Rapids. With the addition of the Alliant Energy LightLine™, countless visitors will experience the city as they cross the Cedar River and connect to trails that span the nation.