Downtown Bettendorf Organization (DBO) is proud to share its accomplishments in fiscal year 2025 (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025), underscoring its role in promoting business and economic growth, enhancing infrastructure and livability, and advancing advocacy and promotion in the downtown district.
Business and Economic Growth
Renewal of the Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District (SSMID) occurred in September 2024 and is in effect until 2029. 53% of the district representing 71% of its value voted in favor of the SSMID.
DBO facilitated the expansion of the SSMID on the north and east sides of downtown.
DBO awarded $30,600 in grants, leveraging $188,911 in façade and building improvements for three downtown properties.
Downtown welcomed new businesses and locations, including D'LUA Taco Shop, The Bulldog Arms, Royal T’s Beauty Parlor, Soothe and Renew and Paragon Interiors.
“These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to building a vibrant, welcoming downtown where businesses can thrive and the community can gather,” said Ryan Jantzi, Executive Director of DBO.
Infrastructure and Livability
Throughout FY25, DBO continued their daily work to keep downtown clean, safe and welcoming through litter collection, weed control, graffiti removal and routine inspections of public spaces.
Highlights included:
Maintaining the popular Be the Light Park for community use.
Regular inspections and cleaning of the new I-74 bike path, on/off ramps and “Oculus.”
Hosting the annual Downtown Cleanup, uniting volunteers to beautify shared spaces.
Public art was also a focus in FY25. DBO partnered with Quad City Arts to deliver new creative installations, including “Arches,” a mural by artist Bill Gustafson and two new sculpture pads at the I-74 bike path and Be the Light Park, which will host rotating public art pieces.
"I am most proud of the investment in the arts by the DBO,” said Jantzi. “With support and guidance from Quad City Arts, DBO is continuing to invest in placemaking initiatives like sculptures, signage and murals. The Downtown Bettendorf renaissance continues, and it’s awesome to see our downtown evolve in real time. The best is yet to come.”
Events
Events in Downtown Bettendorf continue to gain momentum and grow their footprints. Among them were:
Deck the Downtowns holiday event occurring November - December.
Be Downtown, a summer event including family fun, music and activities in June.
Alternating Currents, a multi-city music, film, comedy and art festival in August.