There’s some relief in sight for people searching for a place to live in Dubuque.

Developers are turning part of the former Bricktown Brewery into apartments.

The redevelopment also means a new restaurant.

“After almost of year of sitting vacant, developers say there is new life for the building. Crews are turning the first floor into an upscale restaurant. The second, third and fourth floors will become apartments.”

Economic developers say there is a huge need for downtown dwelling in Dubuque.

Greater Dubuque Development’s Sarah Harris said, “There are still people living in the college dorms, still living in the Bed and Breakfasts and different short term options.”

With the rush of new employees working in Dubuque at places like IBM, the apartments filled up fast.

A recent study by the Iowa Finance Authority shows Dubuque has 500 fewer apartments than needed.

The Bricktown re-development will create 21 new apartments….a mix of one and two bedroom units.

The first level of apartments is scheduled to be ready for tenants on November first.

The next two levels with will ready a few weeks later.

Harris said, “Having market rate rental housing is huge to a community if you are trying to recruit big companies here.”

Developers tell me the rent for these apartments will range from about 700 to one thousand dollars per month.

As for the restaurant, that’s set to open October First.