Novak Plaza is named after Eileen (Krumm) Novak and Frank Novak, Cedar Rapids southwest-siders with Czech heritage who launched and built several successful businesses. They frequented the shops on 16th Ave, also known as "The Avenue," in Czech Village. Eileen and Frank represent the myriad of "mom and pop" businesses that have long made up this charming and historical commercial neighborhood and the little stores and restaurants that keep the center of Cedar Rapids lively and unique. The plaza was made possible by the generous contribution of Mary Kay Novak McGrath in loving memory of her parents, with further assistance in its development from the Czech Village New Bohemia SSMID commission, the City of Cedar Rapids, and The District: Czech Village and New Bohemia. Lighting was provided by the IBEW/NECA group and ACME Electric.