Transitional housing site in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, clears planning commission vote

A rezoning request for a transitional housing project in southwest Cedar Rapids cleared the City Planning Commission on Thursday, when the commission voted 5-0 to approve the change for the former CRST building at 3750 16th Ave. SW. The commission acts as an advisory body to the Cedar Rapids City Council, which has final say over rezoning decisions.

The Housing Fund for Linn County submitted the request to transform the site into a transitional housing facility for up to 85 residents. CRST last used the building as lodging for truck drivers in training. Homeless systems manager J’nae Peterman said the goal is to open the facility, called The Commons on 16th, by early November for people experiencing chronic homelessness. Residents will be referred to the pilot program through area homeless services providers. Peterman said the housing fund plans to lease the building for three years, with the goal of purchasing it for continued use after “showing proof of concept and creating a program that services our community long-term.”

The Commons is designed as “bridge housing,” offering large dorm-style rooms with basic furnishings, restroom access and a communal kitchen. Area service providers would offer on-site wraparound services and 24-hour staff support. Residents will be expected to pay a monthly rent of $550, though most residents should qualify for rental assistance to help cover that cost. The average resident is expected to stay between 18 and 24 months before moving to more independent living, although there is no set limit on how long a resident may stay.

Case manager Mathew Langley told the commission on Thursday that city staff have no concerns about providing city services to the building if it is rezoned from its current light industrial designation to the requested mixed-use zone. Commission discussion was brief, and the vote was unanimous. Paula Mitchell, a board member of the Housing Fund for Linn County, was the only speaker during public comment.

“This project will provide dignified, stable housing … to members of our community whose needs have traditionally not been served by the private market,” Mitchell said. “It’s a unique opportunity to meet a critical community need, so I wholeheartedly encourage approval of the rezoning.”

The request now goes to the Cedar Rapids City Council, where a public hearing and first reading are scheduled for Sept. 22. A second and third reading would be required before the rezoning takes effect, which would likely occur in early October.

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