CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – According to a community survey, a challenge for the Czech Village in Cedar Rapids is empty buildings and business retention. While the village has long been home to many small, locally owned Cedar Rapids businesses, closures in recent years have left several buildings empty.
The iconic Sykora Bakery building, built in the early 20th century, has been without business since 2023; Czech Village Antiques, a family-owned business of 35 years, is the next to close its doors. By closing, the owners are opening up four storefronts along 16th avenue.
The district is optimistic, viewing these closures as opportunities instead of challenges…