Board approves 50% parking reduction for Evans Scholars renovation at 729 N. Dubuque St.; neighbors voice parking and noise concerns

The Iowa City Board of Adjustment on July 9 approved a special exception to reduce on‑site parking at 729 North Dubuque Street from 34 spaces to 17, allowing the Evans Scholars Foundation to renovate a 1923 fraternity house and operate a fraternal group living use with up to 46 rooming units.

Anne Russett of Neighborhood and Development Services told the board the property, known historically as the Phi Delta Theta house, is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and is sited along the Iowa River. Russett said the building was vacant and that, under current multifamily parking rules, accommodating 46 rooming units would require 34 on‑site spaces. The applicant requested a 50% reduction to preserve the building’s historic riverfront character and avoid significant grading or construction behind the house that would affect the riverbank and sensitive areas.

John Beasley, representing Evans Scholars Foundation, described the nonprofit’s mission and…