1st & 1st West Project: Enhancing Our Community
May 22, 2023 | Economic Development & Workforce, Member Stories
A new skyline is beginning to take shape on the west side of the river in downtown Cedar Rapids. What was once a bare piece of land will soon blossom into a must-see attraction in the upcoming months. The new project, 1st & 1st West, will bring new amenities and opportunities to the area, enhancing the quality of life for the local community and giving Cedar Rapids a great get away space for neighboring community residents.
The heart of the new development, Pickle Palace and Big Grove Brewery, are quickly becoming visible structures as construction has been in full swing the last few months. These two attractions, along with an outdoor entertainment center, high end hotel, office space and other amenities, will have the potential to attract people of all ages, boosting the local economy and adding to the vibrant, local cultural scene.
“The 1st & 1st West development is the right project at the right time for our community and for Downtown Cedar Rapids. One of the state’s most successful breweries coupled with fastest growing sport in the country will bring countless locals and visitors alike to downtown for many years to come,” said Jesse Thoeming, Downtown Executive Director. “These first two anchors of this multi-phased project will set the tone as Kingston Yard becoming one of the most popular places to be in all of Cedar Rapids’ urban core.”
This development is a prime example of what successful local collaboration looks like. Downtown Cedar Rapids, local companies and developers, and the city of Cedar Rapids became one team eager to bring to life a project years in the making. The conjoining forces of these entities will enhance the community’s overall well-being and show the dedication to the betterment of Cedar Rapids.
“We are thrilled to be a part of the 1st & 1st West development,” stated Craig Byers, Commercial Realtor at Q4 Real Estate. “This exciting economic development initiative is set to not only bring a surge of foot traffic to downtown, but also provide a significant financial boost to our beloved downtown core. We cannot wait to see the positive impact this project will have on our community!”
1st & 1st West broke ground in May 2022, with Pickle Palace and Big Grove Brewery slated to open by the end of 2023. The developers behind the project include Nate Kaeding, Director of Business Development of Build to Suit; Joe Ahmann, President of Ahmann Companies; Matt Swift, CEO and co-founder of Big Grove Brewery; and Graig Cone, owner of Pickle Palace and Black Sheep.
The entire project in it’s entirety will be completed by 2030, but Pickle Palace and Big Grove Brewery will be ready for the community to enjoy by the end of 2023. Get ready Cedar Rapids, the west side is about to be the best side of upcoming excitement and activities in our city!