Cedar Rapids Today

While a number of businesses across the nation have been forced to close due to COVID-19, many still remain open in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. 

According to The Gazette, a handful of establishments are remaining open to fulfill their customers’ needs at this time. 

Gov. Kim Reynolds issued an order that requires non-essential businesses to close, grocery stores and pharmacies, as well as gas stations are fully permitted to stay open. 

As of April 2, Reynolds ordered that certain businesses stay closed until April 30, but there are a multitude of businesses that fall between classifications of essential and non-essential that are continuing to offer their services to customers. 

One such business is Edgewood Hardware, located in Cedar Rapids, where the co-owner Mike Lauderdale said that sales have continued for indoor projects. The company has requested that customers keep a safe distance from one another and several employees who fall into the risk category are staying home rather than coming in to work.

Home Depot is also still open as of mid-March but is closing early every day. 

Hotels throughout Iowa City are still open in some parts, but are taking a massive hit from the virus. 

President of Think Iowa City, Josh Schamberger, said that many hotels in the nation are having roughly 10% occupancy versus the previous 65-70% occupancy.

He also believes that 80% of hotel workers from Iowa City area have been laid off. He anticipates that hotels might be forced to close as well depending on their individual impact.

Motor stores are still open in some areas, with Cassill Motors offering remote service options. Employees will pick up the car, drive it to a repair shop and return the vehicle, after disinfecting the interior and handles, of course. 

Companies that are most acutely feeling the impact of the virus were invited to apply for the Iowa Small Business Relief Program, which is expected to dole out $4 million statewide.