Neighbors Sue to Stop House That Looks Like Stadium

Iowa City residents are suing to stop a couple from building a 7,500-square-foot home that's also a replica of Kinnick Stadium, home of the University of Iowa Hawkeyes, the AP reports. The home would feature brick siding and a press box just like the actual football stadium. According to the Gazette, it would also have a sports court, an industrial kitchen, stadium-style men's and women's restrooms, and a home theater. Other planned features include stadium seating and a courtyard, KCRG reports. After three meetings and 12 hours of hearings, the Iowa City Board of Adjustment approved plans for the home Sept. 30, ruling that it met city guidelines.

On Wednesday, the Neighbors of Manville Heights Association sued the board. The group wants a judge to stop construction on the home and repeal the building permit. During public hearings, neighbors complained that the stadium replica would be more of an entertainment venue than a house. They said they worried about increased traffic, safety risks, parties, and more. The couple hoping to build the home, who live more than 100 miles away in Decorah, say they will use it for family gatherings. A hearing for the lawsuit hasn't been set. (More homes stories.)