Committee approves River 504 row‑homes plan; considers $268,000 TIF rebate amid tree, parking concerns

The Planning and Development Committee on an omnibus motion approved a planned unit development (PUD) amendment and a preliminary/final plan for River 504, a four‑building, eight‑unit row‑home project on the northeast corner of First and Prairie streets, and held a separate discussion about a proposed TIF redevelopment agreement to reimburse public improvements. The committee recommended approval of the entitlement and advanced the matter to city council; the TIF request was the subject of a straw poll and will return for further review.

The project proposes four two‑unit buildings facing First Street with attached rear garages, a largely brick facade, a partial fourth floor stepped back at the rear and on‑street parking. Planning staff said the developer is proposing 14–15 on‑street parking spaces after adding one streetscape island rather than the two islands recommended by the planning commission because of underground utility conflicts. Staff also said the developer will…