That saying about Rome and how long it took to build the ancient city's magnificent edifices also applies to quaint Sioux Falls.

That's because developing downtown land near Falls Park is going to be more time-consuming - and expensive - than anyone anticipated.

The city agreed two years ago to sell a strip of land along North Phillips Avenue to private developers.

The developers, in turn, would build a multi-use, residential and commercial complex that's strategically located to bolster the city's core.

However, a series of complications - ranging from the presence of lead to problems transferring the title - is pushing back the start of any significant work being on the project, called Uptown at Falls Park.

Still, the Uptown project remains quite important for the next wave of downtown development.

Its proximity to Falls Park and the northern edge of downtown makes it uniquely situated to boost the city's core - as well as Sioux Falls overall - like few other areas.

That means city officials and developers must continue taking this project step by step to make sure not only that it's done right but that it doesn't fall off track.

Developers are waiting on an environmental report from the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which will indicate what needs to happen next with cleanup of the land.

As such details unfold, City Council members will need to ensure that it receives regular updates so that the project moves forward. And simply saying that no one's keeping council members informed isn't good enough. Council members need to take the lead in requesting the information they need.

From its inception, Uptown has been a partnership between the city and private business in realizing a vision that helps downtown grow.

It's quite an undertaking that'll require focus, vision and patience.