Nonprofit to host open house on Iowa City Forest View development

IOWA CITY - A local environmental advocacy nonprofit has planned an open house for those hoping to learn more about the controversial Forest View development at the intersection of Interstate 80 and North Dubuque Street - one of Iowa City's main entrances.

Last year, developer Blackbird Investments announced a plan to develop 55 acres of the area with apartments, condos, hotels and stores, among other features. Residents of the Forest View Trailer Court, which is currently on the land, would have to be moved to a different area. Last summer, residents cited concerns as to whether their houses could be moved or if they would stay intact during a move.

Environmental Advocates announced in a news release Friday that they've scheduled a public open house at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Center for Worker Justice, 940 S. Gilbert Court. Topics include proposed uses for the site and various environmental measures, like preservation of woodlands and stormwater management, that may be taken, according to the release.

'Land use and sustainable development are critical environmental issues in our community. This meeting will allow us to become more knowledgeable about a proposal for an important piece of Iowa City land,” Del Holland, board chairman for Environmental Advocates, said in the release.

A representative for Blackbird Investments could not immediately be reached by email. Holland said via email he was unaware whether Blackbird representatives were invited.

l Comments: (319) 339-3172; maddy.arnold@thegazette.com