The 712 Initiative and the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce have announced the completion of The Row on First, a set of three newly constructed townhomes located at 99, 101 and 103 South 24th Street in Council Bluffs.
This project not only offers modern, eco-friendly housing but also represents the culmination of a significant transformation of the once industrial West Broadway corridor.
“The completion of The Row on First marks a proud moment for our community as it’s the first housing project along the new FIRST AVE corridor,” said Chris LaFerla, Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce director. “This project sets the tone for what’s possible in terms of smart growth and revitalization to support the continued development of Council Bluffs.”
The vision behind The Row on First took root more than 20 years ago when The 712 Initiative, then known as PCDC, acquired Omaha Standard’s property on West Broadway. The project later expanded with the purchase of four additional blighted properties, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive redevelopment effort in partnership with the City of Council Bluffs.
Over the years, these two city blocks (7.2 acres) have been transformed into a vibrant area that includes Hy-Vee, Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh, First National Bank, the FIRST AVE trail, and now, The Row on First.
“The 712 Initiative’s work on The Row on First is a great example of how to revitalize key areas of Council Bluffs,” said Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh. “This project is helping address the housing needs of our growing community.”
These three newly constructed townhomes are situated on the FIRST AVE corridor, a key feature in the area’s transformation. The two end units offer 1,723 of finished sq. ft. with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a one-car garage. The middle unit has 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths in its 1732 sq. ft. layout and no garage.
FIRST AVE, a former rail corridor vacated in 2013, is located one block south of West Broadway. The multi-modal corridor enhances the operation of West Broadway, links to downtown Omaha, and provides opportunities to redevelop obsolete industrial properties. Trail amenities include lighting, landscaping, public art and plazas, making FIRST AVE a “linear park,” not just a trail.
“The Row on First is an innovative answer to urban housing challenges, promoting sustainable infill development while providing amenity-rich living options for local families,” said Courtney Harter, Community Development Director for the City of Council Bluffs.
The Row on First maximizes land use by transforming a typical single-family parcel into a higher-density development, accommodating three units per parcel. Positioned along the pedestrian friendly FIRST AVE, these homes offer proximity to vital amenities such as shops, restaurants, schools, and parks, plus a trail connection to the Missouri River and downtown Omaha. The middle unit of The Row on First is supported by a Google grant and includes solar panels to help reduce utility costs.
This site holds a deep connection to the community. The West Broadway Hy-Vee once hosted a community garden, where students from Children’s Square learned about healthy eating and the growth cycle through hands-on involvement. While the land has since been repurposed into housing, its impact endures. From educating children to soon welcoming three new families, this land remains an integral part of the community’s fabric.
