Isabelle Foland

The empty lot on 21 S. Linn St. was purchased for $4.5 million by the city in 2023 with the goal of leading a mixed-use redevelopment project in the coming years.

The project would create a better connection between downtown and the northern part of town as well as reduce traffic on residential roads in the area.

Hand-painted sign initially advertised Gold Medal Flour

The current Johnson County Jail, which opened in 1981, is in “very poor” condition, according to a 2022 facility condition audit. The building has numerous structural deficiencies, including cracks and deterioration in walls, ceilings, and portions of the roof.

The street, in the heart of downtown Iowa City, has been under construction since March 11. The work is expected to continue until September, affecting foot traffic to the businesses along the street and interfering with some downtown summer event plans.

The increased rates will help fund parking repair and cleaning costs as well as the city’s fare-free transit program, according to city officials.

The new design, which will cost more than initial estimates, features a free form activity pool attached to a lap pool, and a separate deeper pool with low and high diving boards.