Cedar Rapids adjusts public right-of-way near ICE facility, allowing for 7-foot fence

The City of Cedar Rapids has altered the public right-of-way near the ICE facility to permit a 7-foot chain link fence on private property, following a review that identified a mapping error. According to city officials, the updated boundary reflects official records since 1974 and does not remove any public space. Immigration rights group Escucha Mi Voz condemned the decision, asserting that it allows ICE to obscure deportations and restricts access to vital resources for immigrant families. The group has been actively protesting outside the facility, holding events to support individuals during immigration check-ins. On Oct.

1, they rallied in an area previously blocked by law enforcement, asserting their right to assemble in the public right-of-way. Community members expressed their concerns at a City Council meeting, demanding greater transparency regarding the changes. The city clarified that obstruction permit issues do not require council review. This situation underscores the ongoing conflict between local advocacy efforts and federal immigration enforcement actions.