Iowa City opens proposals for 21 S. Linn St. redevelopment

The City of Iowa City has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the redevelopment of 21 S. Linn St. The RFP seeks private developers and development teams interested in creating a mixed-use building at the location, according to a Wednesday morning news release from Iowa City. 

The City, which has owned the property since last summer, plans to select a developer with plans that best align with the City’s goals for a mixed-use development that also contributes to property tax revenue.

Proposals are due by 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1, and must be submitted via the City’s construction bidding platform, Ion Wave. The full RFP document is available on the Ion Wave website.

The City purchased the vacant lot at 21 S. Linn St. in 2023 with the intent to facilitate a mixed-use redevelopment through a public-private partnership. This effort is aimed at promoting private redevelopment that aligns with the long-term interests of downtown Iowa City and the broader community, as stated in the release. 

In March, city officials opened a survey to gather residents’ opinions about downtown and their preferences for the empty lot’s development. The results, discussed in a June work session of the Iowa City Council, indicated a desire for business options, including late-night and weekend venues that are not alcohol-centered, along with free or inexpensive activities, public seating, enhanced transportation facilities, safety improvements, cleanliness, and cultural elements. 

Survey respondents listed bars, smoke shops, liquor stores, and luxury housing as the least desirable options for the site.

The City anticipates that the redevelopment will also generate property tax revenue, which can be reinvested into public services. Key priorities for the project include a mix of commercial uses on the first floor, a blend of market-rate and affordable housing, sustainable construction, and architecture that is both welcoming and engaging with surrounding buildings.

21 S. Linn Street is located at a prominent downtown corner, near several public facilities, including the Tower Place Parking Ramp, Iowa City Senior Center, and Iowa City Public Library, as well as public open spaces. According to the release, the City aims to enhance the vibrancy of the area through this redevelopment project.

For more information, interested parties can visit icgov.org/21SLinn.