Lake Ridge

Considering a mobile home community in Iowa City? Lake Ridge, located conveniently in the area, offers a unique living experience for residents. While a long-term resident praises its excellent maintenance and calm atmosphere, another recent review expresses concerns about noise levels and changes in the park's environment. This article aims to provide a balanced and factual overview of Lake Ridge, drawing from available public information and resident feedback, to help Iowans make an informed decision about their potential new home.

Mobile home parks can offer an attractive and often more affordable alternative to traditional housing, especially in a city like Iowa City. Lake Ridge has historically been considered a "premiere place" by some, with a focus on well-maintained grounds and a tranquil setting. Understanding both the positive aspects and the recent shifts reported by residents is crucial for anyone contemplating joining this community.

Lake Ridge is ideally situated at 702 Bay Ridge Dr, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA. This location places the community on the southern edge of Iowa City, offering a blend of peaceful residential living with convenient access to the vibrant city's amenities. Iowa City is a major hub in Eastern Iowa, known for the University of Iowa, its robust healthcare system, diverse cultural scene, and various employment opportunities.

Residents of Lake Ridge benefit from easy access to major highways, including U.S. Highways 218 and 6, facilitating commutes and travel throughout the region. Public transportation options are also accessible, with bus stops nearby, making it convenient for those who rely on public transit. The community is less than 2 miles from the University of Iowa, making it a viable option for students, faculty, or staff looking for nearby housing. Essential services, shopping centers, and a wide array of dining and entertainment options in Iowa City are all within a short drive.

Furthermore, for nature enthusiasts, Lake Ridge is ideally located near several parks, including Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, Napoleon Park, and Sturgis Ferry Park. Alexander Elementary School, a part of the esteemed Iowa City Community School District, is also nearby, which is a significant advantage for families. This strategic location truly offers the best of both worlds: a quiet residential environment with the dynamism and opportunities of a major Iowa city just moments away.

• Residential mobile home lots for lease: Providing space for quality-built, expertly designed manufactured homes.
• On-site management: Aiming to ensure prompt response to issues and community upkeep.
• Maintenance services: Including common area snow removal (though some recent reviews suggest changes in services like mowing and snow removal for individual lots).
• Community utilities: Including community well and community septic systems.
• Trash and recycling pick-up: Though recent reports indicate frequency may have been reduced.
• Pet-friendly community: Welcoming residents with their pets (specific policies may apply).
• Mail delivery to individual homes.

• Well-Maintained Grounds: Long-term residents consistently praise the community for being very well maintained, with prompt responses to issues.
• Calm and Relaxing Atmosphere: One long-term resident describes the environment as calm and relaxing, fostering a peaceful living space.
• Proactive Management Response: If an issue arises, the management is reportedly prompt in responding and taking care of it (based on one resident's long-term experience).
• Picturesque Country Environment: Nestled in a scenic setting, offering tranquility while being close to urban conveniences.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Features include a playground and a park, making it suitable for families with children.
• Esteemed School District: Located within the Iowa City Community School District, with Alexander Elementary nearby.
• Proximity to University of Iowa: Less than 2 miles from the University, appealing to students, faculty, and staff.
• Nearby Outdoor Recreation: Close to Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, Napoleon Park, and Sturgis Ferry Park, offering opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
• Variety of On-site Amenities: The community boasts a barbecue area, basketball court, card room, fishing pond, and soccer field, promoting active lifestyles.
• Storm Shelter: Provides a designated safe place for residents during severe weather.
• Well-Designed Homes: Manufactured homes often feature open-concept floor plans, island kitchens, and walk-in closets.

However, it is important to acknowledge conflicting recent feedback:

• Loud Music Concerns: A more recent review mentions "quite a bit of loud music, especially on the north side of the park," leading to concerns about suitability for "mature adults" and a perceived decline from its former "premiere" status.
• Changes in Services: Reports from a larger context suggest that services like park security guards, mowing, and snow removal (previously provided by former owners) might have been cut back, and trash/recycling pick-up reduced since the acquisition by Havenpark Communities (the current owner of Lake Ridge Estates and several other mobile home parks in Iowa).
• Communication Issues: Some residents report difficulties reaching the manager's office, with "almost no one answers the phone."
• Rent Increases: There have been broader concerns across Havenpark-owned properties in Iowa regarding significant rent increases.

Specific, publicly advertised promotions or special offers for lot leases at Lake Ridge are not consistently available through general public data. While the official website mentions "quality-built and expertly designed" homes for sale within the community, explicit rental promotions for lots are not detailed. It is common for mobile home communities to have varying incentives based on current occupancy, seasonal demand, or specific leasing terms. These could potentially include reduced security deposits, introductory lot rent rates for new residents, or other benefits designed to attract new residents. Given the recent changes reported by some residents, direct inquiry with Lake Ridge management is the most effective way to ascertain any current offers or incentives that might be available to prospective residents. It's always advisable to discuss all financial aspects, including lot rent, utility billing, and any potential increases, directly with the park's management office.

For inquiries about lot availability, current leasing terms, or to schedule a tour of Lake Ridge, please use the following contact details:

• Phone: (319) 466-9071
• Mobile Phone: +1 319-466-9071
• Address: 702 Bay Ridge Dr, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA

It is highly recommended that prospective residents contact the community directly to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding policies, services, and any current resident feedback regarding specific concerns. This direct communication can help clarify any discrepancies found in various online reviews.

Lake Ridge in Iowa City presents a complex picture for locals considering it as a suitable place to live, blending historical positive attributes with more recent concerns. For Iowans seeking a convenient and potentially more affordable entry into the Iowa City housing market, Lake Ridge's location is undoubtedly a strong selling point. Its proximity to the University of Iowa, major highways, schools, and numerous parks offers unparalleled accessibility to the city's resources, employment, and recreational opportunities. The presence of on-site amenities like a playground, park, fishing pond, and sports courts also contributes to a potentially engaging and active lifestyle within the community.

Historically, residents have lauded Lake Ridge for being "VERY well maintained" with prompt management responses, indicating a commitment to quality living. For those who prioritize a quiet and relaxing environment, the long-term resident's experience suggests that this can be found within the park. This blend of urban convenience and a seemingly serene, amenity-rich environment could indeed make it an attractive option for a diverse range of Iowans, from families to individuals.

However, prospective residents must conduct thorough due diligence and consider the more recent feedback. Concerns about loud music, perceived changes in the park's atmosphere (from "premiere" to potentially less suitable for "mature adults"), and reports of reduced services (like security and trash pickup) along with difficulties reaching management, cannot be overlooked. Furthermore, broader reports about rent increases by the park's owner, Havenpark Communities, should be a significant consideration for anyone on a fixed income or concerned about long-term affordability.

In conclusion, while Lake Ridge offers compelling locational advantages and a history of good maintenance and amenities, its suitability for individual Iowans will depend heavily on their priorities and willingness to investigate the current state of affairs. A direct visit, conversations with current residents (where possible), and detailed discussions with management about all fees, services, and community rules are essential to determine if Lake Ridge aligns with one's expectations for a home in Iowa City.