Hunter
02/12/20
A proposed high-rise development in downtown Iowa City that has been in the works for over two years would be out of character for the city, according to former mayor Jim Throgmorton.
The Iowa City Press-Citizen reports that the development, at 12 East Court Street, is one of the few parcels of land that buildings of up to 15 stories are allowed.
In a letter to the City Council, Throgmorton calls the development “a serious mistake that would haunt Iowa City for decades to come.” He goes on to express concern over the shock the development would pose to the local rental market, and how developers plan to adjust to a potential drop in student numbers at the University of Iowa.
Project Manager Rob Decker of Axiom Consultants is one of the developers and tells the paper that the proposed 15-story buildings are large, but not out of place, and would benefit core neighborhoods that house students who would move to the new buildings. He says the density is needed for students to prevent more urban sprawl.
The Daily Iowan reports that during Tuesday’s inaugural joint session between University of Iowa Student Government, Graduate and Professional Student Government and the City Council, talk focused on housing developments like the Court Street project. Student leaders spoke about its lack of affordability for lower-income students.
The City Council has deferred approval of the design while newly-elected members look over the details. They plan on taking the issue up during their February 18th meeting.