Historic Restoration Fairchild Street

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Iowa City’s Northside neighborhood boasts historic brick streets, dating back to before the 1900s. These streets, while rich in history and character, have become increasingly difficult to navigate and maintain due to their age. Specifically, Fairchild Street from Clinton to Linn is notorious for its uneven, patched, and rutted surface, which has led to numerous complaints about vehicle damage. Recognizing the importance of preserving the historic aesthetics, Iowa City faced the challenge of maintaining these brick streets without sacrificing modern functionality and safety.

The Shive-Hattery design team devised a comprehensive plan to address both the preservation of historic aesthetics and the improvement of road functionality. The project involved removing the old bricks, stockpiling them, and reconstructing the road with a new drainage base. After upgrading the infrastructure—including the water main, storm sewer system, and adding ADA-compliant ramps—the original bricks were reinstalled as the road surface. Additional enhancements included constructing a decorative limestone retaining wall to support the historic ambiance of the neighborhood.

The revitalized Fairchild Street now offers a smoother and safer driving experience, significantly reducing vehicle damage complaints and maintenance costs for the city. The upgraded infrastructure not only preserves the historic charm of the Northside neighborhood but also ensures long-term durability with an estimated lifespan of 40 to 50 years before requiring further maintenance. This project demonstrates how modern engineering solutions can seamlessly integrate with historic preservation efforts, enhancing community satisfaction and maintaining the unique character of Iowa City.