Work begins on artist housing

COUNCIL BLUFFS — Community leaders came together Monday for a ceremony kicking off work to transform a warehouse into a place where local artists can live and work.

“Today is a celebration,” said Andrew Michaelson of Minnesota-based Artspace real estate, the art-focused, nonprofit developer. “We're under construction but also celebrating that it is actually happening.”

The event took place at the historic but long-vacant International Harvester warehouse at 1000 S. Main St. It will be transformed into a 36-unit residential building designed to be homes and work spaces for artists and their families.

The units will range from efficiency to three-bedroom models. The three-bedroom units will be on the main floor with direct access to the outdoor playground area and community garden. An additional 5,500 square feet has been earmarked for artist studios and art-friendly businesses.

“It's a new concept for Council Bluffs and this region,” said Todd Graham, president and chief executive officer of the Iowa West Foundation. Iowa West contributed $2.4 million of the $10.2 million total cost.

The renovation of this historic warehouse should stimulate downtown revitalization, Graham said, adding, “It will be a visual anchor as you enter downtown from the south.”

“It is an engine for economic growth,” said Greg Handberg, an Artspace vice president.

Michaelson said artists throughout the country have inquired about relocating to the Bluffs to take up residence in the building. It should be completed sometime next fall, he said.

Besides Iowa West, the city of Council Bluffs, the Pottawattamie County Development Corp. and U.S. Bank also provided support. Mayor Tom Hanafan said the building is one of many projects reinvigorating the area, including the public library, senior center and Bayliss Park.

“This is a changing community,” Hanafan said. “The people of Council Bluffs made a choice to make Council Bluffs a little bit different than what it was.”

« Metro/Region

Share