Wilson Lofts will be ‘game-changer’ for Clinton

CLINTON, Iowa – The massive renovation of a historic building in downtown Clinton is moving forward. When it is done in a few months, the project could be a “game-changer” for the community.

The Wilson Lofts project – a $13.8 million renovation to turn the old Wilson Building into a mixed-use apartments and commercial use building – is expected to be done in July, said Brian Hollenback, president and CEO of Economic Growth Corp. (GROWTH), the Rock Island-based non-profit organization behind the Wilson project.

As of a few days ago, the Wilson project was right on schedule with about 50% of the interior work and 30% of the exterior work done, he added.

“The people of Clinton have been amazing to work with,” Mr. Hollenback said. “They understand this is a (great) investment to help the community.” 

Wilson Lofts, located at 210-217 5th Ave. South, Clinton, is expected to be completed in July. CREDIT: DAVE THOMPSON

When completed, Wilson Lofts will have 33 residential rental units offering townhome apartments and 504-square-foot lofts as well as one- and two-bedroom apartments. Rents will range from $590 to $1,115, according to the Wilson Lofts website.

To date, there are already 40 people on the waiting list for those units, Mr. Hollenback added.

In addition to the living space, the ground floor will offer commercial spaces for entrepreneurs who want to start a business. That commercial space will include:

  • Makers on 5th: This business incubator will provide six spaces for people who want to refine and grow their businesses.
  • Clinton Culinary: This space will offer four spaces for start-up culinary entrepreneurs to help them start new restaurants.

“This is going to be a game-changer for Clinton,” said Andy Sokolovich, vice president of economic development for the Clinton Regional Development Corporation (CRDC). “We have been trying to get this done for a very long time.”

Mr. Sokolovich added that the redevelopment will help attract more people to the downtown district with its apartments and by helping launch new businesses in the community. “We are very excited to bring more people to downtown Clinton,” he added.

The Wilson Building, located at 210-217 Fifth Ave. South, was built between 1912-1914 and today is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. At one time, the building was home to a J.C. Penney store and Walgreens. Its upper floors once housed business offices. A groundbreaking on converting the building into Wilson Lofts was held June 16.

“Completion of this project will address local housing market needs, responds to the community’s growing and dynamic downtown residential population, and is consistent with the community’s desire for unique urban living opportunities that are close to many amenities,” according to Wilson Lofts’ website.

For more information on the project and availability, visit wilson-lofts.com.

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