River Rock Lofts: Q4 2025 Construction Progress Report

Downtown Marion’s riverfront continues its transformation as construction advances on River Rock Lofts, a 43-unit residential development overlooking the Mississinewa River. What began as conceptual redevelopment in early 2024 is now a visibly emerging structure on the south bank—supported by state READI investment, private capital, and a long-term vision for a more connected, livable downtown.

One of the clearest indicators of progress this fall: the removal of a section of First Street, clearing the footprint for the building’s southern row of units. The former location of First Street runs right under the first row of the development.

Developer The Ridge Group (TRG) describes River Rock Lofts as '43 contemporary one- and two-bedroom units nestled along the Mississinewa River in the growing Riverfront District.' Pre-leasing interest has begun through the developer's website, although formal move-in dates are pending construction completion.

As earthwork, utilities, and foundation preparation move toward completion, the project is now entering its most visible construction phase.

December 2025 Status: Construction Milestones Achieved

Site Preparation & Infrastructure

• Removal of the section of First Street between Branson and South Adams Street.

• Grading and riverbank stabilization for the building footprint.

• Installation of underground utilities and drainage systems.

• READI-supported site preparation coordinated with city engineering teams.

Permitting & Pre-Construction

• Architectural and engineering plans finalized with The Ridge Group (TRG).

• Environmental and floodplain compliance cleared.

• Contractor mobilization and material staging completed in October.

Construction Timeline: What’s Coming Next

Based on city permitting, TRG’s development schedule, and industry-standard sequencing, the remaining phases are projected as follows:

Phase 1: Foundation & Structural Framing

December 2025 – March 2026

• Concrete footings, walls, and slab installation

• Vertical framing for all three building sections

• Initial roof truss installation

Phase 2: Exterior Envelope & Mechanical Systems

April – August 2026

• Roofing, windows, exterior siding

• Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC rough-ins

• Inspections and energy-efficiency testing

Phase 3: Interior Buildout

September – December 2026

• Drywall, flooring, cabinetry

• Final mechanical connections, fire safety systems

• Interior finishing and landscaping

Projected Opening

Projected Opening: Q2 2027 (timeline subject to weather, supply chain, and inspection schedules)
This reflects a realistic construction pace for a waterfront multi-unit residential structure of this scale in the Midwest.

Economic Impact: Current Construction & Future Residential Capacity

Construction Phase Economic Activity

River Rock Lofts is generating immediate regional economic impact:

• $6–8 million in estimated project-related activity (labor, materials, subcontractors)

• 30–45 construction workers onsite during peak phases

• Additional 15–20 indirect jobs through suppliers, trucking, engineering, and professional services

Future Residential Economic Contribution

Upon completion, the development will deliver:

• 43 market-rate apartments (one- and two-bedroom units)

• 70–90 new downtown residents

• $750,000–$1M in projected annual resident spending within downtown Marion (based on ESRI consumer expenditure models for comparable Midwest riverfront districts)

This residential density supports Marion's strategy to increase foot traffic for restaurants, retail, and recreation amenities.

READI Grant Context: State Investment Making Local Progress Possible

River Rock Lofts represents a signature example of how READI 2.0 funding is being deployed across East Central Indiana. According to regional economic development reporting:

• Marion has been allocated $850,000 in READI funding for downtown revitalization efforts, including support for housing and riverfront activation.

• The state’s investment is intended to catalyze private capital—exactly what is occurring with River Rock Lofts, where public infrastructure dollars unlock a multi-million-dollar private development.

This project is also part of a broader riverfront district vision that, as Mayor Morrell emphasizes, includes: “a state-of-the-art outdoor sports park, playground, dog park, splash pad, restaurants, trails, and living accommodations.”

River Rock Lofts is the first major vertical construction component of this long-term redevelopment plan.

Why This Matters: A Turning Point for Downtown Marion

The Riverfront District has long been identified as a high-potential redevelopment zone. With River Rock Lofts now under active construction, the district’s momentum is shifting from planning to visible execution:

• New housing creates immediate market demand for retail and services.

• Riverfront amenities become more viable as population density increases.

• Public-private partnerships gain credibility when plans become foundations, framing, and rooftops.

For site selectors, developers, and potential residents, this project serves as a tangible demonstration of Marion’s capacity to deliver on strategic redevelopment goals.

Next Steps

The following updates are scheduled through Q1 2026:

• Monthly construction progress documentation

• Announcement of pre-leasing timeline via TRG

• Coordination with the City of Marion on adjacent infrastructure improvements

• Tracking of downstream economic impacts as construction employment peaks

Full project details and interest list sign-up are available via the developer: www.riverrocklofts.com