New retail, residential developments coming to Iowa River Landing

City officials announced Monday that more than $30 million worth of construction is coming to the Iowa River Landing in Coralville.

Crews already are moving dirt for the retail and residential units. A collection of two-story retail buildings, called Main Street at the Iowa River Landing, will consist of retail on the ground floor and commercial space above that. The anchor store VonMaur is set to open this summer.

Officials announced Scratch Cupcakery, based in Cedar Falls, will be setting up shop in the district. Owner Natalie Brown said the Iowa River Landing location would be her fourth in Iowa. Scratch Cupcakery plans to hire about 40 part-time workers and plans to open in June.

“We started the very first Scratch Store with 600 square feet and seven staffers and that was it,” Brown said. “Now we know what we need to do, and we love being able to employ.”

Scratch Cupcakery menu will include more than 80 varieties and offer hot drinks, fresh fruit smoothies and frozen blends, slushies and fresh-squeezed lemonade.

Consultants also announced that Jos. A Bank, a national men's clothing chain, will open within the Iowa River Landing.

“We're moving right along as you can see from everything that has happened so far,” Coralville Mayor Jim Fausett said.

Developers also announced a new residential building, with dozens of condominiums. Residents will have their choice between one- and two-bedroom units for sale or rent.

“They are going to be really nice,” developer Gary Watts said.

The residential building is set to open in the spring of 2015.

The city's consulting firm said it plans to have another announcement within a month of another development in the district.