Downtown Davenport Partnership (DDP) announced this week a record $165,600 of property improvement grants were awarded to 15 buildings in 2023-2024, leveraging over $1.6 million in private investment.
Grant funds assist in the construction of downtown structural and core property improvements including tuckpointing, masonry, electrical, plumbing, demolition, architectural design and more.
“It’s more important than ever to ensure our buildings are both safe and beautiful, and downtown property owners responded with major investments this year,” said Kyle Carter, executive director of DDP, an affiliate of the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce. “These building improvements ensure our local gems continue to shine, and new businesses have extra resources to succeed downtown.”
More on the grants can be found here.
Two highly visible downtown projects that benefitted from DDP grants this year include: The Garrison, a new restaurant at 131 W. 2nd St.; and Great River Brewery at 332 E. 2nd St. Great River closed in April 2019 when flooding hit downtown Davenport. It will reopen with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 7.
“We’re very grateful for DDP’s help on many fronts,” said Scott Florence, owner of Great River Brewery. “First, I always felt like the DDP had my back on everything, which always builds momentum. They gave me leads on potential financing sources and great advice. The grant program brings true help in the form of cash to these projects.”
Great River Brewery’s scope of interior work included carpentry, ceilings, concrete, drywall, paint, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, flooring and sprinkler system. Its exterior work included roof repairs, masonry, garage doors, steel and storefront windows.
The Garrison’s renovation included new flooring, doors, ceiling, paint, plumbing, HVAC, fire suppression, electrical and professional design on the interior; and replacement of concrete, light fixtures and gas line on the exterior.
“DDP grant programs encourage responsible property stewardship, enhancing quality of place, curb appeal, business flexibility and ultimately, commercial values of properties,” Mr. Carter said in a news release announcing the grants. “Between a long list of major renovations along with new construction, it’s been a great year.”
Funds for grants are distributed by the DDP Board of Directors through the SSMID (Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District). A complete report of 2023-2024 downtown investment will be presented at the upcoming DDP Annual Meeting on Thursday, June 27.
Last year’s annual meeting highlighted progress and success stories in the downtown area.
DDP provides place management services for downtown Davenport’s business improvement district (SSMID). Its focus encompasses three pillars of work: business & economic growth, infrastructure & livability and advocacy & promotion.
