The reflection of a five-story development – which would include a restaurant, commercial space, and residential space – may be seen from the west side of the Iowa River in the near future as part of the Riverfront Crossings District.
The project, spearheaded by the Iowa River Development LLC, also includes a second building for three separate retail spaces next to Staples at 820 S. Riverside Drive.
Using the vacant site of Mumm’s Saloon and Eatery, 21 W. Benton St., the five-story development would include a restaurant on the ground level with outdoor seating with a riverside view. The second floor would have 10,000 square feet of office space. The remaining top three floors would hold 18 residential units.
A portion of the roof would be developed into a roof garden space, and the building would face the Iowa River.
The Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission will consider the rezoning request for the development on Thursday.
“Right now, the area is not zoned for that structure,” said Karen Howard, associate city planner. “They requested a rezoning to do the project, and Planning and Zoning could make recommendations to take to the City Council or deter for a second meeting.”
Current project developments in the Riverfront Crossings District include MidWestOne Bank’s new building, along with parking ramp and condominium configuration, the University of Iowa’s music facility, and a large city park.
— by Rebecca Morin
