A local bank has requested an alternative plan for a future development project it is spearheading to continue with the desired aesthetic look of Iowa City’s current Riverfront Crossing plan.

The Iowa City City Council voted 6-0 on adopting the ordinance that allows MidwestOne Bank to revise its building height and floor area. In addition, the bank’s request calls for lower parking requirements for its new six-story office tower during the Tuesday evening meeting.

The multi-phase project  will encompass a mortgage center, high-end office space, townhouses, and a multi-story parking ramp, adjacent to the Iowa City Post Office branch and the former Sabin Elementary, 509 S. Dubuque St.

In order for the condominium portion to move forward, Sabin Elementary would have to be demolished.

Under the new plan, the construction on the new building will now be moved up from the spring of 2014 to this fall.

— by Rebecca Morin