Transforming Davenport's former Dock restaurant from eyesore to elegant will take extra time.
That's because demolition must wait until Spring 2015. Iowa winter weather and flooding are the main considerations.
"There's no immediate need to take that risk," said developer Todd Raufeisen. "So the reality is, it's prudent."
Since the original economic development agreement called for demolition by the end of 2014, Davenport aldermen will need to give the go-ahead.
But remembering high water surrounding the building, it shouldn't be a problem.
Raufeisen is working closely with Davenport, railroad interests and Rhythm City Casino to carry out the construction plans.
"It just makes sense to us, even, to delay the demolition of the building," said Alderman at Large Gene Meeker.
The $15-million project should be worth the wait.
The three-story building calls for three restaurants on the lower level.
"When you walk into the building, you'll be able to see all the way down to the river," Raufeisen said.
The second floor features office space. The third floor will be an events center.
"Truly one of the unique viewing opportunities on the Mississippi River," he said.
The dramatic transformation should make this location a destination. It will be a real centerpiece along Davenport's riverfront.
Construction should take 12-15 months, anticipating a 2016 opening for tenants and customers.
With new access and options to the building, it will make quite a statement.
"We truly anticipate the building to end up to be the premier building on the entire Mississippi River between Minneapolis and Louisiana," he concluded.