Now in a new location, the business that has passed through several owners since the 1980s has a chance to offer a new experience in sweets. Marion Chocolate Shop’s new kitchen is crafting an improved recipe that uses fewer ingredients and preservatives.
Also, a meeting Wednesday will share information about a proposed new solar project in Linn County.
After guiding the district through its most formative years, Brooke Prouty is ready to help cities across Iowa with the Iowa Economic Development Authority.
Crews earlier this spring broke ground on the approximately $8.35 million project to transform Marion’s City Square with a new Central Plaza. What’s happened so far?
Preliminary findings from an Uptown Marion parking study show ample parking remains in much of the city’s central district during peak hours, but suggests strategies such as parking partnerships with private businesses and improved wayfinding signage.
Despite worries that the transformation of the historic Marion Methodist Church into Belltower Lofts apartments would worsen Uptown parking, the Marion City Council unanimously approved the site plan for the project this week.
Marion is asking for proposals from private developers to transform its old public library site into a mixed-use facility that anchors the city’s Uptown District, complete with commercial and residential space that honors the historic character of the community.
“This is the perfect event to shop and dine in Uptown and see the new streetscape lit up at night,” said Brooke Prouty, Uptown Marion Main Street director.
Corridor communities like Marion and Coralville are learning the keys to creating a a vibrant downtown after the pandemic. Having a variety of uses in the heart of a city is key to attracting people to want to spend time in the central business districts, their leaders say.
Planet Smoothie’s menu, available in locations across the country, is now an option in uptown Marion.
Event will include properties available for lease or purchase
As Uptown Marion undergone a revitalization, more people are visiting. That means parking spaces are harder to come by. But leaders say the issue is not that there aren’t enough parking spaces, it’s that people don’t always know where to find parking.
Dash has expanded to the former Witt’s End in Uptown Marion.
Goldfinch Tap + Eatery is back with a new holiday theme and more activities throughout the month with the goal of fulfilling wish lists for over 100 children this Christmas.
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