Jackson Square
Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) is in the predevelopment stages of a new housing development downtown called Jackson Square, which involves the adaptive reuse of the Illinois Oil Building at 321 24th Street.

This $8.46 million investment will include 30 residential rental units and 3,700 square feet for future commercial space. There will be 3 one-bedroom (830 sq.ft.), 17 two-bedroom (925 sq.ft.), and 10 three-bedroom / two-bathroom (1300 sq.ft.) units. Rents will range from $432 to $875. Plans include environmental remediation, rezoning, and working with the Preservation Commission, as the site is a local landmark.

Click here to see preliminary floor plans.

Artspace
Artspace, a Minneapolis based not-for-profit firm that develops affordable space for artists and arts organizations, has conducted a prefeasibility study and market study on artist live-work housing in Rock Island. Artspace indicates “the findings clearly support a small to moderately sized live/work project in Rock Island.” More specifically, the survey found that 81 artists are interested in relocating to a live/work project and 119 artists are interested in renting studio or workspace. The Artspace expertise is in creating affordable live/work space for artists and they believe that a project of up to 27 units is market feasible. To read the Artspace studies and reports click here.

Goldman Family Block
GROWTH will serve as the Developer for its newest downtown development, known as the Goldman Family Block, located at 1612 to 1624 2nd Avenue.  This development includes six adjoining properties recently donated to GROWTH by a well-regarded local businessman and his family - Stanley and Ann Goldman, owners of Hyman's Furniture, Inc., along with their children Rob Goldman and Connie Gersick.

A majority of the upper stories of these properties have been vacant for many years.  Their adaptive reuse as affordable rental units supports local housing market needs, responds to Rock Island’s growing and dynamic downtown residential population, and is consistent with community’s desire for unique urban living opportunities that are close to many amenities.  

Construction is anticipated in 2010.  Once complete, the Goldman Family Block will feature 11 uniquely designed one and two-bedroom units on the second floor.  The first floor will be retained as leased commercial space, including a new retail incubator.