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Strengthening Our Community Flood Control Vision Comes to Life
2020 Water Quality Report p. 21
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Cedar Rapids Flood Control Vision
Comes to Life
MAY 2021 FROM THE CITY MANAGER • SPECIAL SECTION •
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NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW • DIRECTORIES •
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2020 WATER QUALITY REPORT • SUMMER PLAY! GUIDE •
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W
hen the Cedar River crested more than 11 feet higher than any flood in recorded history, the devastation was heartbreaking. Water covered 10 square miles of our city and the damage resulted in more than $5.4 billion in losses. Yet only four days after a historic disaster, Cedar Rapids City Council met to set flood recovery goals and start our city on the path to long-term, permanent flood control. That commitment to resiliency, re-building, and protection has been a theme woven into the nearly 13-year story of our flood recovery journey. Over the years, we have seen this resiliency play out in our dogged, determined visits to Washington DC to request federal funding for our community, which came to a culmination in July 2018 when we were awarded $117 million in federal funding for our Flood Control System. Our resiliency can also be seen in the local commitment to fund protection for both sides of the river, and securing the financial planning necessary to bring that commitment to reality. Resiliency is found not only in floodwalls, but in neighborhood memorials that tell our story. It’s found in amenities such as trails and river walk views that turn an engineering system into a unique part of the City of Five Seasons — one that supports vibrant neighborhoods and continues to attract new development opportunities. Our flood control system is more than walls and earth levees. It’s our history. Our memories. Our story. Cedar Rapids is known as a river town — and our system will be built to celebrate and give access to the river, integrating our community’s history and culture. I invite you to read through this issue to learn more about the components, details, and funding of this important project as we continue our work to protect and build a strong and vibrant city for today and years to come.
Jeffrey Pomeranz Cedar Rapids City Manager
CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG
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FLOOD CONTROL SYSTEM
Inside View of the Flood Control System
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he Cedar River Flood Control System is arguably one of the largest infrastructure initiatives in the city’s history, aimed at preventing another historic disaster like the 2008 flood and eliminating the need to construct temporary barriers in emergency situations similar to the 2016 flood.
LEVEES
Earthen levees approximately 12-16 feet tall on average, often paired with 12’-wide bike and pedestrian paths. Levees can be seen in both NewBo and Czech Village, and are planned for segments in Time Check, Kingston Village, and around Cedar Lake.
FLOODGATES
Floodgates temporarily close off roads and railroads in the event of a flood emergency, blocking off rising river water. They can either roll across the road, or use a system of stackable, removable panels that slide into place. A combination of roller, stackable, and swing floodgates will be used on both the east and west sides of the river.
While the protection itself is critical, it is just as important that the system be compatible with the community and the surrounding neighborhoods. Cedar Rapids leadership is committed to building a system on both sides of the river, integrating community amenities that are meaningful to all Cedar Rapids residents. View a snapshot of the components of the system, and read on to learn more about projects underway or completed in specific neighborhoods.
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PUMP STATIONS
Pump stations are constructed to look like the buildings around them and blend into their surroundings; they help protect the community against both river flooding and rain flooding. Underground pipes are consolidated into fewer pipes that all connect to the pump station, which will begin pumping rain water out of the storm sewer system and back into the river as needed. All of this can be monitored and controlled remotely.
UNDERGROUND STORM GATES
New underground gates will be able to swiftly and securely close off the river, protecting homes and businesses from flooding from underground river water. Because of recently installed storm gates, the City no longer has to set out plugs, pumps, or concrete cones in the NewBo District, or devote staff to monitoring these temporary measures during flood threats. Underground storm gates will be constructed in Czech Village this year.
Permanent Wall Removable Wall Flood Gate Detention Basin Elevated Roadway Levee Pump Station Storm Sewer Shut-off
DETENTION BASINS
BRIDGE REPLACEMENT & ELEVATIONS
The system includes replacing and elevating two bridges: the 8th Avenue Bridge over the Cedar River, and the Shaver Road bridge over McLoud Run. Two bridges have already been raised in previous years over Prairie Creek: Edgewood Rd SW and 6th Street SW.
COMMUNITY AMENITIES
Detention basins hold excess rain water until it can be safely pumped back into the Cedar River. They provide a “bowl” during heavy rain events, reducing stormwater runoff and neighborhood flash flooding. A detention basin has already been completed in NewBo, with more planned for the Czech Village and Northwest/Time Check neighborhoods.
Memorials, benches, trails, recreational greenways, historic plaques, public restrooms…these are just a few of the community amenities that are being intentionally interwoven within the Flood Control System, making it an amenity for the entire community, not just riverfront properties.
CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG
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FLOOD CONTROL SYSTEM
Time Check & Cedar Lake Permanent Wall Removable Wall Flood Gate Detention Basin Elevated Roadway Permanent Wall
Levee
Removable Wall
Pump Station
Flood Gate
Storm Sewer Shut-off
Detention Basin Elevated Roadway Levee Pump Station Storm Sewer Shut-off
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rom the beginning, the City of Cedar Rapids and City Council have held a long-term commitment to protecting both the west and east sides of the Cedar River with permanent, comprehensive flood control, and securing the financial planning necessary to bring that commitment to reality. The City will continue advocating for flood control on both sides of the river, for all flood-impacted neighborhoods. To that end, a variety of work is underway in both the Time Check and Cedar Lake areas, the northern segment of our Flood Control System. Community amenities such as trails and gathering spaces are integrated throughout the system, as well as intentional transportation planning.
6th Street NW Extension to Ellis Boulevard NW // 2022 Extends 6th Street NW through former Mid-American site, to Ellis Boulevard NW, opening connectivity into Time Check neighborhood New connection for traffic, pedestrians, bikes, transit Includes sidewalk, bike lanes, brick pavers, raised medians, and utility improvements Integrated with permanent flood control plans in Time Check
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6th Street NW Extension to Ellis Boulevard NW.
LEFT: Shaver Road NE Bridge Elevation. ABOVE: Environmental streambed improvements to Cold Stream.
Northwest Neighborhood Detention Basins // 2019 – 2025 Shaver Road NE Bridge Elevation // 2020 - 2023 Extension and partial demolition of existing box culvert, utility relocations (2020 – 2021) Shaver Road bridge replacement/elevation and trail underpass (2021 – 2022) Environmental improvements to streambed and new trail bridge over McLoud Run (2021 – 2023)
Hold excess rain water until it can be safely pumped back into the Cedar River Serve as a “bowl” during heavy rain events, reducing stormwater runoff and neighborhood flash flooding. Locations and schedule include: 2019 – north of the Northwest Recreation Center 2022 – south of E Avenue NW and west of 28th Street 2024 – north of O Avenue NW and west of Edgewood Road 2025 – south of O Avenue NW and east of Highwood Drive
Saving you more. That’s the value of Veridian. veridiancu.org 319.743.6440 CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG
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FLOOD CONTROL SYSTEM
O Avenue NW Levee Gateway // TBD Design concepts have been completed to elevate O Avenue NW over a levee, serving as a gateway to the greenways The project will feature an ADA accessible ramp from the raised O Avenue to the Northwest Gateway & Memorial Plaza
Cedar Valley Nature Trail Improvements // 2020 - 2023 Select trail segments currently closed; detour established along 10th Street NE Flood control in this area will include a new levee and trail system Will include amenities such as a trail parking lot, pedestrian benches, and scenic viewpoints Future flood control efforts will wrap around Cedar Lake, tying into high ground at I-380 near J Avenue, and will protect homes and businesses threatened when the Cedar River backs up into McLoud Run and Cedar Lake
Reconfigured F Avenue
E & F Avenue NW reconfiguration // 2022 Phase 1 Will eliminate the complex geometry at the intersection where 1st Street NW, E Avenue NW, F Avenue NW, and the I-380 off-ramp all come together The realignment will be a simplified, more intuitive design, and will accommodate permanent flood control measures such as a levee and pump station 8
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FLOOD CONTROL SYSTEM
Downtown & Kingston Village
An elevated Tree of Five Seasons with views of the river will be incorporated into flood control measures.
COMPLETION THIS YEAR
Permanent Wall Removable Wall Flood Gate Detention Basin Elevated Roadway Levee Pump Station Storm Sewer Shut-off
Quaker Oats Flood Wall // 2021 Protects one of the nation’s leading agricultural producers 2,100 linear feet of permanent flood wall, two pump stations, railroad closure floodgate
T
he downtown and surrounding area will be a hub of activity this construction season. Projects over the next two years include floodgates across 1st Avenue SE and 2nd Avenue SE, as well as numerous storm sewer improvements in both the downtown and Kingston Village that will make our underground network more resilient to floods. Wrapping up this year includes the McGrath Amphitheatre floodwall — a new facility that also doubles as a public restroom — as well as the Quaker Oats floodwall, which started in 2018 and protects one of the nation’s leading agricultural producers. Design efforts also continue on raising and elevating the 8th Avenue Bridge — a signature project that will also include public gathering spaces and redevelopment.
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Amphitheatre Floodwall // 2021 Floodwall built into the side of a new facility that also doubles as a public restroom and storage for events It will tie into a levee and removable floodwall that will stretch from the Amphitheatre to 7th Avenue SW, coming 2023-2024 |
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Starting this year, the floodgate at 1st Avenue is designed to roll across the roadway during flood threats.
UPCOMING FLOODGATES
3rd Avenue SE Floodgate // Opening June 2021
E and F Avenue NE Floodgates under 5-in-1 Dam // 2022 –2023 Located underneath I-380
Stackable / removable floodgate Deployed for a 22-foot river elevation
UNDERGROUND STORM SEWER
Roller gates similar to 16th Avenue SE Signal removals at E and F Avenue: precursor work to gate installation (2021) Hydroelectric plant will be demolished (Fall 2021/ Winter 2022) prior to floodgate construction Closures of E & F Avenue will be required during construction (timing and phasing TBD)
1st Street Storm Sewer (between A Avenue NE - 1st Avenue) // April 2021 – June 2021 Consolidates drainage outfalls to the Cedar River Directs downtown storm water to a future pump station at Tree of Five Seasons Park Lane reductions in effect during construction
1st Avenue SE Floodgate // June 2021 –2022 Roller gate similar to 16th Avenue SE Preliminary work to begin June; traffic impacts will not occur until later this summer 1st Avenue to remain open during construction, lane reductions in effect Temporary parking removal on 1st Avenue during construction
1st Street SE Storm Sewer (3rd Avenue – 5th Avenue) // Late 2021 – 2022
Connects two future pump stations Reduces number of river outlets Eliminates need for pump station at 4th Avenue Partial and full closures expected
Kingston Village Storm Sewer Consolidation // 2022
2nd Avenue Floodgate // 2022 Stackable / removable gate similar to 3rd Avenue SE floodgate Includes a speed table at the trail crossing 2nd Avenue will be closed during construction
• Reduces number of river outlets • Consolidate and relocate storm sewer on 1st Street SW at 8th Avenue SW • The new lines will be redirected to a future pump station at the north side of 8th Avenue
CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG
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FLOOD CONTROL SYSTEM
Conceptual and preliminary design is currently underway on all westside flood control components, including floodwalls, levees, pump stations, floodgates, and detention ponds. Both 2nd and 3rd Avenue SW floodgates are included in these plans, which will be either removable or permanent.
Flood Control at City Hall will incorporate views of the river and a trail connection.
UNIQUE FEATURES
City Hall Flood Control // 2021 – 2024 Trail connection established
Tree of Five Seasons Park // 2022 –2023
Curb and ADA improvements on 1st Street SE
Sculpture elevated and realigned to accommodate levee
Temporary traffic signals in place during construction
Permanent full height floodwall with elevated park to allow views of the river New bike trail connecting the west side with downtown
4th Avenue Riverfront // 2023-2024 Between 3rd Avenue and 5th Avenue SE
1st Street will be reduced to one lane during construction
Considerations include parking, preserving view of the river, trail enhancements, public access, etc.
New landscaping and tree plantings (future project)
Permanent and combination floodwalls incorporated
8th Avenue Bridge & Riverfront Improvements // 2023+ Elevated 15 feet, bridge to remain open during floods Fewer piers in river Incorporates floodwall, pump station, and streetscaping/lighting Incorporates indoor/outdoor public gathering spaces Complements McGrath Amphitheatre Trail component
Raising and elevating the 8th Avenue Bridge ensures access remains open across the river during flood emergencies.
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uch has already been accomplished in this low-lying district that has been vulnerable to flood threats in the past. Levees and pump stations have already been completed, with additional underground measures scheduled to be underway this year. In the next two years, residents will see additional above-ground floodgates at 12th Avenue and 16th Avenue, a raised floodwall that will protect the National Czech & Slovak Museum, and the largest pump station constructed to date.
By spring 2022, a decorative archway will greet visitors coming to the Czech Village District. The west-side floodwall will complement the aesthetics of the east-side floodgate.
Permanent Wall Removable Wall Flood Gate Detention Basin Elevated Roadway Levee Pump Station
CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG
Storm Sewer Shut-off
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FLOOD CONTROL SYSTEM
The 16th Avenue SW roller floodgate is scheduled to begin this fall, and will tie into the levee and trail system in the Czech Village District.
16th Avenue SW Floodgate // Fall 2021 – Spring 2022
NewBo Lot 44 Levee // 2020 – 2021 Located between 9th Avenue and 12th Avenue SE Parking restrictions in place during and after construction
Roller gate paired with decorative archway Complements aesthetics of east-side floodgate Integrated with landscaping enhancements near Czech Village Clock Tower
12th Avenue SE Floodgate // Summer 2022 – Spring 2023
Trail detour will be established
Roller gate, similar to 16th Avenue SE Aesthetics to complement 16th Avenue SE gate Paired with intersection improvements at 2nd Street for new roundabout 12th Avenue Bridge elevation means west side does not require floodgate Road will be closed to traffic Trail detour established Access maintained to African American Museum of Iowa
Czech Village Underground Gate // 2021 New underground stormwater gate on one of the largest storm sewer pipes connected to the river Prevents river water from backing up into the City’s storm sewer system, eliminating street flooding Reduces the City’s reliance on temporary measures such as plugs and pumps
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National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library Floodwall // 2021 Permanent concrete floodwall from the 16th Avenue gate to the proposed pump station just south of the 12th Avenue Bridge Includes a raised, terraced yard to accommodate outdoor activities at the museum and minimize the appearance of the floodwall
Otis Road Storm Sewer // Spring 2021 – Fall 2021 New storm sewer along Otis Road (16th Street - Van Vechten Park) and upgrading storm sewer underneath a future levee. Ensures excess rain water can escape, instead of backing up into the neighborhood Tree clearing at Van Vechten Park is required to prevent tree debris clogging stormwater pipes
Czech Village Pump Station // 2022 Largest pump station undertaken to date, located south of the 12th Avenue Bridge Capacity anticipated to be over 100,000 gallons per minute (more than twice the size of the Parking Lot 44 Pump Station) The aesthetics will complement and blend with the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
LOCAL RESTAURANTS LOCAL DELIVERY
This fall, work will be underway on a permanent concrete floodwall at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, featuring a raised, terraced yard to accommodate outdoor activities.
www.chomp.delivery
Free Delivery Code: OURCR2021 valid now through 10/31/21 CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG
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FLOOD CONTROL SYSTEM
COMMUNITY AMENITIES —
Making it Ours
MEMORIALS
The Flood Control System honors neighborhoods most impacted by the 2008 Flood by integrating memorials and historic markers to help tell the story of the neighborhood. Situated along O Avenue NW and Ellis Boulevard, the Northwest Gateway and Memorial Plaza includes greenway space, benches, and a memorial wall with historical narrative that shares the resiliency of the Northwest / Time Check neighborhood. The plaza also features a distinctive gateway and the privately funded sculpture, “West Side Rising.”
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oven throughout the Flood Control System is a unique combination of community amenities that improve the quality of life for all residents, which can be enjoyed year-round. The vast majority of the time, flood protection will be on stand-by, used during high river crests and seasonal flooding in low-lying areas. Intentional design efforts have been made to ensure the system not only blends into the neighborhoods it protects, but enhances them. Take a closer look at the community amenities integrated within the Flood Control System.
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TRAILS
With a new network of above-ground earthen levees in a variety of neighborhoods, the City has taken advantage of their natural riverfront views and have added 10-12 foot-wide bike/pedestrian paths on top of the levees. These new trail networks are already open at the NewBo and Czech Village levees, with an additional levee/trail segment planned for the area around Cedar Lake, and one being explored in the Northwest/Time Check neighborhood. OUR CR
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HISTORIC PLAQUES
Plaques in the Time Check, NewBo, and Czech Village Districts help ensure our neighborhood stories stay with us and can be read and enjoyed by all residents and visitors. Starting this summer, memorial markers will be re-instated at Masaryk Park, near the 16th Avenue SE floodgate. The memorials were temporarily moved during construction of the levee, and recall individuals significant to the history and development of the New Bohemia District. A historic plaque will also be installed this year along the Czech Village levee trail, highlighting the historic characteristics of the neighborhood.
GREENWAYS
Parks, greenways, and recreational fields will be integrated into the flood control system, including in the Time Check and Czech Village neighborhoods. Often built to safely “flood” and hold excess river water, during normal times, the areas can be used for recreation or public gathering spaces. Design is still underway; considerations include lawn and festival grounds, river access, unique play space, and connection to the trail system. CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG
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FLOOD CONTROL SYSTEM
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Funding Flood Control
unding for the Flood Control System is a combination of federal, state, city, and private dollars. The system will cost approximately $550 million in today’s dollars; with inflation, total cost is estimated at $750 million. Federal funding is allocated for the east side of the system; local, state, and grant funding can be used for either side of the system. The City is approved to receive state funding through 2035, and is working to accelerate construction to help reduce inflation costs and complete the system earlier. The figures below reflect the end of Fiscal Year 2020 (June 30, 2020).
Approved Sept. 11, 2018 Total federal funding received to date: $13,608,523
Total state funding received to date: $62,136,939
A Other Funding
4.7%
$5,890,616.00
B Bonds (City financial plan)
10.6%
$13,412,867.00
C Local Option Sales Tax for flood control
6.6%
$8,315,971.00
D Community Development Block Grant
10.1%
$12,695,104.00
E Iowa Flood Mitigation Program
52.5%
$66,207,036.00
F FEMA grant
0.2%
$287,249.00
G Economic Development Administrative Grant
$990,613.00
0.8%
H US Army Corps of Engineers
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$18,229,310.00
14.5%
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We continue to pursue private dollars
NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW
AFTER
BEFORE
Paving for Progress Underway
N
early 40 projects will be underway this construction season through Paving for Progress, the one percent local option sales tax set aside
solely for the maintenance, repair, construction, and reconstruction of public streets. The program utilizes sales tax generated by Cedar Rapids residents as well as visitors who shop/dine in our community, and provides approximately $20 million annually for road repairs. The program went into effect July 1, 2014, and expires on June 30, 2024, unless otherwise renewed. Projects on the docket this year include O Avenue NW, 12th Avenue SE, Oakland Road NE, Council Street NE, 6th Street SW, and C Street SW, in addition to a variety of local neighborhood streets. Many projects funded by the sales tax — particularly neighborhood streets — would not have been possible given the past funding available. Residential streets in the past rarely qualified for federal funding, making it next to impossible to move up
Northwood Drive NE between Glass Road and 42nd Street. Completed 2018
the priority list when competing with the needs of high volume arterial or collector streets.
PAVING FOR PROGRESS ACHIEVEMENTS TO DATE (2014 – 2020) Approximately $122 million invested into our roads More than 60 linear miles of roadway improved Over 200 projects completed to date 70 percent of completed projects have been residential 30 percent of completed projects have been arterial
STRATEGY Address neighborhood streets that rarely rose to the priority list in previous years Invest in roads before they reach the end of their service life, when repairs are most costly Completely replace some of our most deteriorated streets Utilize a data-driven, impartial, and measurable plan
Read more about all the projects on our website:
CityofCR.com/PavingforProgress
CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG
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CITY SERVICES DIRECTORY CITY SERVICE
LOCATION
PHONE
EMAIL ADDRESS
Animals
7241 Washington View Parkway SW
319-286-5993
AnimalControlMgmt@Cedar-Rapids.org
Assessor
City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW
319-286-5888
CRAssessor@Cedar-Rapids.org
Bid Opportunities
City Hall, 101 1 Street SE
319-286-5021
Bid-Purchasing@Cedar-Rapids.org
Building and Housing Codes
City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW
319-286-5831
Building@Cedar-Rapids.org
Buses
Ground Transportation Center, 450 1st Street SE
319-286-5573
CRTransit@Cedar-Rapids.org
Fire Safety Inspections
713 1st Avenue SE
319-286-5166
CRFire@Cedar-Rapids.org
Garbage, Recycling and Yard Waste Collection
City Services Center, 500 15 Avenue SW
319-286-5897
Solid-Waste-Recycling@Cedar-Rapids.org
Housing Assistance Programs
City Hall, 101 1st Street SE
319-286-5872
HSG-Admin@Cedar-Rapids.org
Land Development
City Hall, 101 1 Street SE
319-286-5822
DevelopmentServices@Cedar-Rapids.org
Park Rentals
City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW
319-286-5566
Recreation@Cedar-Rapids.org
Potholes and Street Maintenance
City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW
319-286-5826
Street@Cedar-Rapids.org
Recreation Programs
Northwest Recreation Center, 1340 11th Street NW
319-286-5566
Recreation@Cedar-Rapids.org
Sewer Backup or Problems
City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW
319-286-5815
Sewer@Cedar-Rapids.org
Traffic Signals, Signs and Markings
City Services Center, 500 15th Avenue SW
319-286-5176
Traffic@Cedar-Rapids.org
Utility Billing
City Hall, 101 1st Street SE
319-286-5900
WaterMail@Cedar-Rapids.org
st
th
st
For more information about the City of Cedar Rapids and its services, call 319-286-5080 or visit www.cedar-rapids.org.
CITY COUNCIL
To leave a message for a City Council member, call 319-286-5051. Find your district at www.linncountyelections.org.
MAYOR
DISTRICT 1
DISTRICT 2
Martin Hoeger
Scott Overland
DISTRICT 3
DISTRICT 4
DISTRICT 5
Dale Todd
Scott Olson
Ashley Vanorny
Brad Hart
b.hart@cedar-rapids.org
dalet@cedar-rapids.org
m.hoeger@cedar-rapids.org
scott.olson@cedar-rapids.org
AT LARGE Patrick Loeffler
p.loeffler@cedar-rapids.org
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a.vanorny@cedar-rapids.org
AT LARGE
AT LARGE
Tyler Olson
Ann Poe
t.olson@cedar-rapids.org
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s.overland@cedar-rapids.org
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ann.poe@cedar-rapids.org
2020
Water Quality Report
Serving the City of Cedar Rapids, the City of Robins, the Glenbrook Cove Subdivision of Marion and the Poweshiek Water Association.
Meet the New Utilities Director Roy Hesemann became the Utilities Director in January
2021. He has been a City of Cedar Rapids employee for more than 21 years and boasts a career spanning over 35 years of engineering, management, and education work in the water and wastewater treatment sectors. In his time with the City, Hesemann has served as the Water Pollution Control Plant Manager, Water Utility Plant Manager, and Project Engineer. He was filling in as Interim Water Utility Plant Manager for the Utilities Department prior to his appointment as Utilities Director. “Roy demonstrates strong leadership and management abilities, a comprehensive understanding of the evolving needs of our Utilities Department, dedication to innovation and sustainability, and commitment to our employees and organizational health program,” said City Manager Jeff Pomeranz, upon Hesemann’s appointment as Utilities Director. “Whether you live, work, or play in Cedar Rapids, the City’s Utilities Department touches your experience,” said Hesemann. “From providing some of Iowa’s best-tasting water to drink; to treating residential and industrial wastewater; to providing garbage, recycling, and yard waste collection — the Cedar Rapids Utilities Department plays an essential role in meeting the community’s daily needs. I am looking forward to leading the department as we continue to meet and exceed regulatory obligations while providing dependable services to our customers.” Hesemann grew up in Missouri, but has lived most of this professional life in the Cedar Rapids area. He earned his undergraduate degree from University of Missouri-Columbia. He also serves as an adjunct instructor at Des Moines Area Community College and is active in several watershed organizations across Iowa and Nationally.
Keeping Water – and Plant Employees – Safe From COVID-19 While this report dives into the details of the City’s water quality in 2020, it is hard not to acknowledge one of the biggest news stories of the year — the COVID-19 pandemic. From early in the pandemic, the City of Cedar Rapids understood the importance of not only keeping its water supply safe, but also ensuring staff who monitor the treatment process could continue to perform their essential duties. CONTINUED ON P. 2
CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG www.CityofCR.com/WaterReport
NEARLY HALF A MILLENNIA OF OPERATIONAL EXPERIENCE
W
hile water comes from nature, it takes treatment equipment, pipes, and people working 24/7 to deliver clean, safe drinking water to homes and businesses in our community. From monitoring source water; protecting wellheads; ensuring our treatment processes of softening, filtration, and disinfection is delivering the intended results; to monitoring and maintaining the distribution system — all of these jobs require skilled employees with a commitment to excellence. Water division employees boast a cumulative 470 years of service for the City of Cedar Rapids. This experience can be particularly critical during emergency events, such as the August 2020 derecho. “During and after the storm, water operators were monitoring your water system. Our staff worked hard to ensure pumps continued to operate — even when power was disrupted across the community,” explained Christine Knapp, Water Plant Operations Manager. “Division staff routinely undergo operational and safety training to prepare for emergency events,” said Knapp. As power was gradually restored, your water and wastewater treatment processes kept pace, serving our community’s food and grain processing, manufacturing, and other industrial users. For years, the Cedar Rapids Utilities Department has taken steps to invest in this reliability. In a way, the storm highlighted the importance of that work. Ongoing maintenance and testing of our water systems keep City staff prepared when emergency response is required. In Cedar Rapids, when you turn on the faucet, you know you can expect safe, great-tasting water to flow. You can also trust that Cedar Rapids Water division staff are working hard — day and night — to ensure your tap continues to provide the highest quality water.
21
BEFORE
"COVID-19" CONTINUED
It is important for our customers to know that their tap water remains safe to consume. We use chlorine gas and a trace amount of ammonia as a standard disinfectant for our water supply. As an extra precaution, we utilize powerful ultraviolet lamps to instantly damage any remaining genetic material of microorganisms in our water, eliminating the ability to cause infection. These practices have been shown as effective treatments for viruses and bacteria.
While millions of Americans practiced social distancing and sheltered in place, your water and wastewater utilities workers needed to keep water flowing. From early on in the pandemic, the City of Cedar Rapids initiated both an emergency preparedness plan and a continuity of operations plan, to ensure the safety of our community. Employees were educated about best practices for reducing the spread of COVID-19, and staffing schedules and office practices were modified to limit the number of people sharing limited space together. The City of Cedar Rapids would like to thank ALL essential workers who have continued to provide critical services during the pandemic. We appreciate all you do to protect our community!
22
AFTER FACILITY UPDATES
Laboratory Updates
C
edar Rapids has been honing the craft of water treatment since it became one of the first American cities to adopt rapid sand filtration in 1896. The Water division has kept pace with modern trends, installing chlorination equipment, fluoridation, and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection in line with contemporary treatment plants over the past several decades. As this report demonstrates, another critical component in ensuring the safety and quality of your drinking water is conducting a routine, consistent monitoring and sampling program. Water plant operators and the Utilities laboratory staff ensure the City of Cedar Rapids’ water quality is always top-notch. Each year the Water division analyzes more than 530,000 data points at each of its two water treatment plants and more than 6,000 points within the distribution system. You can review many of the results from this analysis starting on page six of this report. Laboratory operators routinely perform testing that exceeds national and state standards. Amy Knudsen, utilities water quality specialist, offered some enlightening statistics. “The regulatory requirement for lead/copper sampling is once every three years, but we do it every year,” said Knudsen. “With atrazine, we need to sample once per year. We test for that monthly. Sodium — one sample is required per year. We monitor it weekly.”
Scientists are constantly discovering new trends and challenges affecting water supplies. Meanwhile, the Cedar Rapids Utilities Department remains steadfast in its obligation to keep the city’s drinking water safe. That’s why recent improvements at the City’s Water Treatment Laboratory, completed in November 2020, were critical. The upgrades will help us ensure water that comes out of your tap continues to be of the highest possible quality. The laboratory renovation project preserved historic architectural details at the J Avenue Water Treatment Plant while improving the safety and workflow of the space. New state-of-the-art fume and microbiological-control hoods improve safety for lab analysts. Additional bench space made room for updated equipment, including an Ion Chromatograph — used to improve efficient analysis of raw and finished water for fluoride, chloride, nitrate, nitrite, and sulfate. Another new piece of technology is a hightech autoclave, which allows operators to increase the type and frequency of microbiology testing in the lab. Improvements to the space also opened up room to relocate a lab employee from the Water Pollution Control building, doubling analyst presence at the water lab during the week. This allows our staff to serve and turn around results to customers more quickly.
How Your Water is Treated
Ammonia
Lime
Out to Homes, Businesses & Storage
In from Wells
Carbon Dioxide Chlorine Added
Chloramines formed (compound of chlorine and ammonia)
Fluoride Phosphate
UV Disinfection
Keeping Your Water Flowing Water keeps our city running and our economy growing. While essential, water infrastructure is often unseen. Many never consider how water gets to the tap, or where it goes after we flush it away. Luckily, Cedar Rapids residents don’t have to worry about it. The Utilities Department maintains good functioning pumps, treatment plants, and pipes to bring clean water into homes and businesses, and to remove and treat wastewater. Many components in our drinking and wastewater treatment facilities were brought online decades ago and have been working ever since! We are constantly working to monitor portions of the system as the time comes to upgrade and replenish equipment. Learn more about recent and upcoming improvements at right.
Bever Park Reservoir Resurfacing The 1922 Bever Park Reservoir is an 8 million gallon underground water tank. The tank stores water for use during high-demand periods. It also balances water pressure in the area. A recent project emptied, cleaned and refreshed the tank for years to come.
NW Softener Basin Addition A new softener basin is being constructed at the NW Water Treatment Plant. This project will allow the Water division to preserve treatment capacity while renovating and extending the useful life of existing water softeners.
Cedar Rapids residents enjoy water rates that are among the lowest in the state! $
9
4.6
$
T
he City of Cedar Rapids obtains its drinking water supplies from wells constructed in sand and gravel deposits along the Cedar River. Those deposits form an underground, water-bearing layer called an alluvial aquifer. Because of continuous pumping of the City’s wells, most of the water in the aquifer is pulled from the river. The rest of the water is supplied as water percolates up from a deeper bedrock aquifer, or down from the top of the ground.
.00
990
PER 1,000 GALLONS FROM THE CITY (FY21) PER 1,000 GALLONS PURCHASED AT THE STORE (AT $.99/GALLON)
As the wells perform their work, your drinking water benefits from natural filtration through sand in the riverbank. This filtration has proven to be a beneficial pretreatment to water before it reaches the City’s conventional lime-softening facilities.
WHAT'S THE
VALUE
of Water?
Invaluable. Reliable. Water—it is essential for everything we do in life. We need water to make a cup of coffee, fight fires, build bridges, and swim on a summer day. From agriculture to manufacturing, most sectors of our economy rely on water.
The Water division achieved 100% compliance with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ water quality expectations in 2020. This marks the third consecutive year the division earned this distinction. Additionally, the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPC) must meet 3,865 points of compliance toward its water discharge permit each year. In 2020, WPC became eligible for the North American Clean Water Agency (NACWA) Silver Peak Performance Award for its exceptional compliance, with only one deviation from the standard. Cedar Rapids residents can be proud of the exceptional standards upheld by their Utilities Department every day.
QUESTIONS? If you have questions or concerns about our water quality or this report, please contact Water Division Customer Service. We are happy to help identify issues and resolve your concerns.
Water drives economic growth and competitiveness. Water protects public health. Water revitalizes neighborhoods and supports community vitality. It sustains our environment and makes us more resilient in the face of climate change. Water is life.
LEARN MORE AT C ITY OF C EDAR RAPIDS
CALL: 319-286-5900 EMAIL: watermail@cedar-rapids.org
www.thevalueofwater.org
WHAT WE'RE DOING
ABOUT LEAD
The Water Division (CRWD) routinely tests for lead in the drinking water leaving our treatment plants. In 2020, no lead was detected leaving our plants. Lead can leach into water during overnight contact with pipes and faucets in older homes. CRWD monitors this with a sampling program. Our tests show most homes test at, or well below, the standard set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for annual monitoring of lead. CRWD performs special sampling and analysis when lead is detected above the standard.
Important Lead and Copper Service Line Information We work hard every day to exceed the EPA’s standards. The EPA recently updated its Lead and Copper Rule for Public Water Systems. Learn how these changes may affect you: Some older homes still utilize lead plumbing, or have a lead service line between their house and the water main. To reduce the risk of dissolved lead from old pipes, CRWD adds lead corrosion control to its water supply. This consists of a very low concentration of zinc ortho-phosphate, a mineral that reduces the risk of dissolved lead in consumers’ water. This small amount has long been proven safe for consumption. CRWD is updating its service line records— the plumbing between City distribution pipes and the water meter on the customer’s end. Sometimes, service lines need to be repaired or replaced. The Water Division does not always receive updated information when this happens. Updating records is a high priority and a first step toward determining how precise our monitoring program can be. The EPA’s updated Lead-Copper rule instructs CRWD to fully update its service-line inventory and replace/improve a set amount of older connections through a program spanning several years. Lead lines discovered will need to be replaced. The EPA is working to provide financial assistance to offset the cost for property owners to replace their portion of the lead service line, however, this will not be mandatory. It is important to know that if only the CRWD-owned portion is replaced, a potential for exposure to dissolved lead remains. CRWD will notify homeowners of scheduled service line and water main work in their area. The goal is to complete service line replacements all at one time — as quickly as possible. The revised Lead and Copper Rule also discontinues collection of water samples from service lines that are made of copper using lead solder. The monitoring program will continue to collect water samples from service lines made of lead. Additional testing of schools and childcare centers is included under the rule revision.
THE CITY NEEDS YOUR HELP! Customer participation to identify their service line material can reduce the expense of the inventory requirement. This may also reduce inconveniences associated with potential home or office visits. Help the CRWD in its efforts to remove lead service lines from the water system. Fill out our short survey at www.CityofCR.com/inventory.
Educational Information LEAD IN DRINKING WATER If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. The CRWD is responsible for providing high-quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking and cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) or at www.epa.gov/safewater/lead. The following state-approved laboratories can test your water for lead: State Hygienic Laboratory: Coralville, IA | 800-421-4692 TestAmerica: Cedar Falls, IA | 319-277-2401 Keystone Labs: Newton, IA | 641-792-8451
NITRATE
A nitrate is a dissolved form of nitrogen found in fertilizers and sewage byproducts that may leach into groundwater and other water sources. Nitrates occur naturally in some waters. Over time, nitrates can accumulate in aquifers and contaminate groundwater. Nitrate in drinking water at levels above 10 ppm is a potential health risk for infants less than six months of age. High nitrate levels in drinking water can cause blue baby syndrome. Nitrate levels may rise quickly for short periods of time because of rainfall or agricultural activity. If you are caring for an infant, ask for advice from your health care provider.
AT-RISK POPULATIONS
It's important to be aware that some people may be more vulnerable than the general population to contaminants in drinking water. Immunocompromised persons — those undergoing cancer chemo-therapy or organ transplants, some elderly or infants and people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders — can be particularly at risk from infections. We ask anyone that may be at risk to seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. Guidelines from the EPA and Centers for Disease Control on appropriate steps to lessen the risk of infection by microbial contaminants and/or Cryptosporidium are available from the National Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.
25
Water Quality Findings
This table summarizes required water quality monitoring results for regulated parameters that were detected in the 2020 calendar year. A comprehensive report of all water quality testing is available from the Water Division.
W AT E R T R E AT ME NT PLANTS - FINISHE D W AT E R INORGANIC CHEMICALS
J AVE PLANT
NW PLANT
VIOLATION
RANGE
REPORTED
RANGE
REPORTED
POSSIBLE SOURCES OF CONTAMINANT
0
No
ND -0.64
0.37
ND - 0.46
0.31
Erosion of natural deposits; Runoff from orchards; Runoff from glass and electronics production wastes
10
10
No
0.63 - 5.40
5.40
ND - 5.83
5.83
Runoff from fertilizer use; Leaching from septic tanks, Sewage; Erosion of natural deposits
mg/L
1
1
No
ND - 0.07
0.07
ND - 0.05
0.05
Runoff from fertilizer use; Leaching from septic tanks, Sewage; Erosion of natural deposits
Sodium
mg/L
NA
NA
No
NA
14.0
NA
13.0
Erosion of natural deposits; Added to water during treatment process
Fluoride
mg/L
4
4
No
0.10 - 0.81
0.81
0.12 - 0.88
0.88
Water additive which promotes strong teeth; Erosion of natural deposits; Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories.
RANGE
REPORTED
RANGE
REPORTED
UNITS
MCL
MCLG
Arsenic
μg/L
10
Nitrate
mg/L
Nitrite
ORGANIC CHEMICALS Toluene
mg/L
1
1
No
NA
ND
NA
ND
Discharge from petroleum factories
Atrazine
μg/L
3
3
No
ND - 0.30
0.11
ND - 0.30
0.08
Runoff from herbicide used on row crops
RANGE
REPORTED
RANGE
REPORTED
RADIONUCLIDES Combined Radium
pCi/L
5
0
No
NA
ND
NA
ND
Erosion of natural deposits
Radium -226
pCi/L
5
0
No
NA
ND
NA
ND
Erosion of natural deposits
Radium -228
pCi/L
5
0
No
NA
ND
NA
ND
Erosion of natural deposits
Gross Alpha
pCi/L
15
0
No
NA
ND
NA
ND
Erosion of natural deposits
RANGE
REPORTED
RANGE
REPORTED
0.48 - 2.09
1.34
0.90 - 4.23
1.64
TREATMENT TECHNIQUE INDICATORS Total Organic Carbon
Turbidity
Removal Credits
TT
NA
No
NTU
TT
NA
No
Naturally present in the environment
Running Annual Average TOC Credits must be > 1.0 0.11
0.04 - 0.11
Cannot exceed 1.0 NTU & Monthly no more than 5% > 0.3 NTU
0.23
0.03 - 0.23
% > 0.3 NTU
% > 0.3 NTU
0
0
Soil runoff
D IS TRIBUTIO N SYSTE M MO NITO RING LEAD AND COPPER RULE
UNITS
ACTION LEVEL (AL)
MCLG
VIOLATION
RANGE
90th PERCENTILE
95th PERCENTILE
SAMPLES EXCEEDING AL
Lead
μg/L
15
0
No
ND - 132
3.7
6.7
1
Copper
mg/L
1.3
1.3
No
ND - 0.488
0.087
0.193
0
SOURCE OF CHEMICAL Corrosion of household plumbing systems; Erosion of natural deposits
REVISED TOTAL COLIFORM RULE
JAN
FEB
MAR
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
JULY
AUG
SEPT
OCT
NOV
DEC
Total # Samples/Month
108
108
109
108
109
108
108
109
108
108
108
108
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Level 1 Assessment Required
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Meets Monthly MCL of <5% Positive Coliform/Month
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
# Positive Coliform Samples/Month
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
DISINFECTANT & DISINFECTION BY-PRODUCTS UNITS
MRDL
MRDLG
VIOLATION
RANGE
mg/L
4
4
No
1.8 - 3.9
3.5
UNITS
MCL
MCLG
VIOLATION
RANGE
REPORTED
Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM)
μg/L
80
NA
No
ND - 3.4
3.1*
By-product of drinking water disinfection
Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)
μg/L
60
NA
No
ND
1.5**
By-product of drinking water disinfection
Total Chlorine Residual
REPORTED Water additive used to control microbial growth
*Highest Locational Running Annual Average at Site DB03
** Highest Locational Running Annual Average at Site DB01
Sample Key
26
Highest Running Annual Average Total Chlorine Residual Arsenic Radon Fluoride Atrazine
Maximum Value Nitrate Nitrite Turbidity
Single Result Sodium Toluene Combined Radium
OUR CR
|
Radium -226 Radium - 228 Gross Alpha
M AY 2 0 2 1
Lowest Running Annual Average Total Organic Carbon
Highest Locational Running Annual Average Total Trihalomethanes Total Haloacetic Acids
UNREGULA T E D A N D S E C O N D A R Y C H E MIC A L S INORGANIC CHEMICALS
J AVE PLANT
NW PLANT
UNITS
MCL
MCLG
RANGE
AVG
RANGE
AVG
Chloride
mg/L
NA
250
23.3 - 33.2
27.2
20.7 - 28.9
24.9
Erosion of natural deposits; Run-off
Copper
mg/L
NA
1.0
ND - 0.010
0.004
ND - 0.018
0.010
Corrosion of household plumbing; Erosion of natural deposits
Manganese
μg/L
NA
50
ND - 44.5
10.2
ND - 0.27
0.01
Corrosion of household plumbing; Erosion of natural deposits
Sulfate
mg/L
NA
250
20.8 - 31.2
24.9
19.7 - 32.0
26.1
Erosion of natural deposits
Zinc
mg/L
NA
5
0.13 - 0.27
0.21
0.20 - 0.25
0.23
Corrosion of household plumbing; Erosion of natural deposits
RANGE
AVG
RANGE
AVG
Chloroform
μg/L
NA
70
0.9 - 1.5
1.2
1.7 - 3.5
2.3
Bromodichloromethane
μg/L
NA
0
ND
ND
ND - 0.8
0.5
Dichloroacetic Acid
μg/L
NA
0
1.0 - 2.0
1.5
1.0 - 2.0
1.3
Trichloroacetic Acid
μg/L
NA
20
NA
ND
NA
ND
Metolachlor
μg/L
NA
NA
0.10 - 0.40
0.22
ND - 0.30
0.18
pCi/L
NA
NA
ORGANIC CHEMICALS
RADIONUCLIDES Radon
POSSIBLE SOURCES OF CONTAMINANT
By-product of drinking water disinfection
Run-off from fertilizer used on row crops
RANGE
REPORTED
RANGE
REPORTED
38 - 64
55
20 - 37
30
POSSIBLE SOURCES OF CONTAMINANT Erosion of natural deposits
ACR O NYMS
UNREGULAT ED CON T AM I NAN T M O N IT O R IN G R U L E ( U C MR ) 4
J Ave. Treatment Plant J Ave. Distribution Area NW Treatment Plant NW Plant Distribution Area
Manganese µg/L
Germanium μg/L
HAA5 µg/L
HAA6Br µg/L
HAA9 µg/L
TOC mg/L
Bromide mg/L
Method
EPA 200.8
EPA 200.8
EPA 552.3
EPA 552.3
EPA 552.3
SM 5310B
EPA 300.01
AVG: Average ND: Not Detected MRDL: Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level
Range
8.6 - 113
ND
NA
NA
NA
1.7 - 2.2
26.0 - 34.3
Average
44.200
ND
NA
NA
NA
2.0
29.6
Range
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Average
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Range
0.63 - 687
ND - 0.55
NA
NA
NA
1.5 - 2.3
24.0 - 32.9
Average
230
0.18
NA
NA
NA
2.0
27.6
Range
NA
NA
1.4 - 3.2
ND - 1.7
1.4 - 4.7
NA
NA
MCLG: Maximum Contaminant Level Goal
Average
NA
NA
2.5
1.3
3.8
NA
NA
NA: Not Applicable
MCL
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NO CURRENT REGULATORY MCL - EPA Mandatory sampling and analysis to determine contaminate occurrence nationally and establish regulatory MCL's.
NR: Not Regulated mg/L: Milligrams per liter or parts per million μg/L: Micrograms per liter or parts per billion pCi/L: Picocuries per liter MCL: Maximum Contaminant Level
NTU: Nephelometric Turbidity Unit MRDLG: Maximum Residual Disinfection Level Goal
Source Water Assessment Information: This water supply obtains its water from the sand and gravel of the Alluvial aquifer of the Cedar River. The Alluvial aquifer was determined to be highly susceptible to contamination because the aquifer characteristics and the overlying materials provide little protection from contamination at the land surface. The Alluvial wells will be highly susceptible to surface contaminants such as leaking underground storage tanks, contaminant spills, and excess fertilizer application. A detailed evaluation of the source water supply was completed by the IDNR, and is available by contacting the public water supply at 319-286-5975. Information about work being done to help minimize contamination of the source water supply can be found at www.cityofcr.com/mcpp. Arsenic µg/L
Total Coliform cfu/100ml
E.coli cfu/100ml
Lead µg/L
Copper µg/L
Zinc µg/L
Manganese µg/L
Iron µg/L
Sodium mg/L
Nitrate mg/L
TOC mg/L
2015 Annual Average
1.15
720
<1
ND
2.8
1.0
214.9
65.1
11.9
4.0
2.10
2016 Annual Average
3.05
33
<1
ND
6.8
2.1
166.0
63.4
9.2
5.5
2.56
2017 Annual Average
1.25
65
<1
0.37
8.8
4.4
170.3
110.6
9.5
4.0
1.94
2018 Annual Average
0.84
35
<1
0.05
4.2
2.2
170.9
49.4
10.0
3.6
2.27
2019 Annual Average
0.86
55
<1
ND
6.6
2.7
120.0
42.7
9.4
3.6
2.87
2020 Annual Average
1.40
2
<1
ND
7.1
0.9
120.2
289.3
10.2
3.3
1.57
The following is an important message from the Environmental Protection Agency: Drinking water, including bottled water, may be reasonably expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. That’s because as the water we draw from — lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs and wells — travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it picks up naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material. It can also pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791 or visiting the website at www.epa.gov/ogwdw. Inadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses and parasites, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea and associated headaches.
CEDAR-RAPIDS.ORG
27
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there PFAS in my drinking water? In 2013 we sampled for six PFAS compounds with no PFAS detected. In July 2020, we sampled for 18 PFAS compounds and had lower than reportable results. Currently, there are no formal standards for these compounds. Demonstrating our commitment to high water quality standards, the CRWD will partner with Iowa DNR on a yearlong PFAS study later in 2021. The study will help determine what role, if any, PFAS plays within our water supply. Locations where the compounds were manufactured, or air fields adjacent to streams where a significant amount of fire-fighting foam may have been used, appear to be the most likely sites of concern for these compounds. Neither of these cases present a concern for our source water at this time.
Glossary
Action Level (AL): The concentration of a contaminant that, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements that a water system must follow.
What is the fluoride concentration and why is it added? Fluoride is added during the treatment process to help prevent dental cavities. The optimal concentration is maintained at 0.7 parts per million (ppm) with a range of 0.6-0.9 ppm as recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Arsenic: The EPA recently lowered the arsenic Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) to 10 ppb. Trace amounts of arsenic are occasionally detected in your drinking water at levels well below this more stringent standard. Arsenic is a mineral known to cause cancer in humans at high concentrations and is linked to other health effects such as skin damage and circulatory problems. Coliform: A bacteria originating in the digestive system of mammals. Its presence in water alerts lab technicians that disease-causing agents may be present. Compliance: Following all rules and regulations defined in the Safe Drinking Water Act and maintaining water quality below MCLs. Contaminant: One of a variety of natural or manmade physical, chemical, biological or radiological substances whose presence in public water systems may cause adverse health effects to consumers. Detection: The positive identification of the presence of a particular contaminant. Detection of a contaminant does not necessarily represent a serious health risk to consumers if the concentration is below the MCL. Disinfection: Killing the larger portion of microorganisms in water, with the probability that the disinfecting agent kills all disease-causing bacteria. Drought: A period of unusually persistent dry weather that persists long enough to cause serious problems such as crop damage and/or water supply shortages. Filtration: A treatment process that physically removes particles from water as the water passes through a medium. Groundwater: The supply of fresh water found beneath the earth’s surface, usually in aquifers. Groundwater is often used to supply wells and springs. Herbicide: A chemical agent used to kill plants, especially weeds. Used widely in agriculture. Immunocompromised: A physical condition in which the human immune system becomes less capable of warding off illness or infection. Inorganic: Composed of or involving organisms (or their remains or products) that are not living. Examples of inorganic substances include minerals, rocks and salt.
28
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL): The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to the Maximum
My toilet tank and inside of my dishwasher are stained dark brown to black. Is my water safe to drink? The dark staining is likely due to the corrosioncontrol chemical added during treatment. Its purpose is to lay a protective coating on the insides of pipes so water never comes in contact with the pipe, thereby reducing the risk of dissolving lead or copper into the drinking water. It has been tested extensively and no health or safety concerns have been identified. My water throughout the entire house tastes and smells musty or stale. Is it OK to drink? Sometimes in low-use areas or dead-end main areas, the water does not get circulated as it should. Where this is the case, the distribution crew can be notified to flush hydrants in the area to help bring in fresh water. What should I expect if my water is shut off due to a water main break? Water main breaks are often indicated by a lack of water at the tap or water bubbling to the surface of neighborhood streets. This may prompt a water service disruption to your home or business.
Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs) as feasible, using the best available treatment technology. Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG): The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety. Maximum Residual Disinfection Level (MRDL): The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants. Maximum Residual Disinfection Level Goal (MRDLG): The level of drinking water disinfectant below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants. Microbial: A group of microorganisms such as bacteria, protozoa and viruses. Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU): A unit of measure used to determine the clarity of drinking water. Organic: Of, pertaining to or derived from living organisms. Organic matter contains carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Examples include humans, plants and animals. Particulates: Of or relating to minute separate particles. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): A group of manufactured chemicals that have been used in a variety of industries around the globe since the 1940s. The chemicals are very persistent in the environment and in the human body – meaning they don’t break down and they can accumulate over time. There is evidence that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse human health effects. Pesticides: Any substance or chemical applied to kill or control pests, including weeds, insects, algae, rodents and other undesirable agents. Radionuclides: Naturally occurring and humanmade radionuclides are present throughout the environment. They are found in varying amounts in soil, water, indoor and outdoor air—and even within our bodies—making exposure inevitable. State and Federal regulations establish safe drinking water maximum contaminant levels for a variety of radionuclides. Monitored contaminants include Gross Alpha Radiation, Radium-226, Radium-228, and Combined Radium radionuclides. The existing treatment process does not reduce or remove these contaminants. Except in extreme circumstances, radiation resulting from the ingestion of radionuclides in drinking water OUR C Ris far| lower M than A Y radiation 2 0 2 1 resulting from other sources of exposure, like radon found in
Repair crews attempt to reach all homes, businesses, and apartments prior to shutting off water, except under emergency situations. The crews leave an information sheet (door hanger) at the property which explains what to do if water is shut off. It generally takes repair crews 8-12 hours to fix a break and restore water service. If air or particles are coming out of your drinking tap, run water for several minutes to flush the line. If possible, run the water through your bath faucet as this moves the most water and sediment. In most cases, it takes another two days for a bacterial contamination sample to return. If the sample shows no contamination in the water, another information sheet is issued, indicating an All Clear. Information will be posted to the City’s website (CityofCR.com) if a precautionary boil advisory notice is issued. If you receive a precautionary boil advisory notice, follow these steps before consuming tap water: 1) bring water to a boil; 2) let water boil rapidly for at least one minute; 3) allow water to completely cool before consuming; 4) check City website for advisory status updates, or call Water Customer Service at 319-286-5900. some basements. Radon is a radionuclide classified as an unregulated contaminant. During the aeration treatment stage, radon can be removed from the water source. Additional information about Radon and aeration is included in this report. The concentration of radionuclides found in our water is well within safe regulatory guidelines. Radon: Radon is a radioactive gas that you can’t see, taste or smell. It is found throughout the United States. Radon is a known human carcinogen. Breathing air containing radon can lead to lung cancer. Drinking water containing radon may also increase the risk of stomach cancer. Radon can build up to high levels in all types of homes. Radon can move up through the ground and into a home through cracks and holes in the foundation. Radon can also be released into indoor air from tap water when showering, washing dishes, and performing other household activities. A radon level less than 4 picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L) is considered safe. Between 0.0019 – 0.0070 pCi/L of radon may enter the air from City tap water — far less than radon entering homes through the foundation. Fix your home if the level of radon in your air is 4 picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L) or higher. There are simple ways to fix a radon problem that aren’t too costly. If you are concerned about radon in your home, test the air in your home. Testing is inexpensive and easy. For additional information, call your state radon program (800-838-5992) or the EPA’s Radon Hotline (800-767-7236). Surface water: All water naturally open to the atmosphere and all springs, wells or other collectors that are directly influenced by surface water. Water located close to the earth’s surface. Total Organic Carbon (TOC): Amount of carbon found in an organic compound; used as an indicator of water quality. Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR): Revised compliance rule that aims to increase public health protection through reduction of pathways for contamination; find-fix-document. Treatment Technique (TT): A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water. Turbidity: Turbidity is a measure of the cloudiness of water. Turbidity is a good indicator of treatment filter performance and is regulated as a Treatment Technique. Violation: Exceeding the MCL of a contaminant regulated by the federal government; failure to properly monitor or report regulated contaminants would also be considered a violation.
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