Lang
2/4/24
The City of Iowa City is considering a plan that would expand Wetherby Park by tearing down a neighboring duplex.
The city recently purchased eight different duplexes for $2 million in 2021. The original plan was to convert the eight properties into affordable housing. However, city inspectors have since determined necessary improvements to empty duplexes at 2318 and 2320 Taylor Drive…which are adjacent to the entrance to Wetherby Park…would not be cost-effective. And even if the improvements were made, the units would still be considered “undesirable”.
City staff is instead recommending tearing the building down and expanding the nearby park.
Stan Laverman, a senior housing inspector for the city, told The Daily Iowan that the city council seems receptive to the idea.
The next city council meeting is set for 6:00 Tuesday night at City Hall on East Washington Street, although the proposal is not currently listed on either the work session or main council meeting agendas.