MOLINE, ILLINOIS (May 1, 2025) — Using a grant from the John Deere Foundation, Renew Moline recently completed a yearlong study with Andrea Carbine of New Venture Advisors (NVA) to evaluate the feasibility of a Public Market in the Spiegel Building! With twenty-plus years of experience in food industry consulting, Carbine leads food system planning and infrastructure projects for organizations, drawing on deep experience in the operation and management of shared kitchens, incubation and acceleration programs, restaurant and hospitality ventures, and supply-chain resources in communities across the country.
Renew Moline President and CEO Alexandra Elias joined Andrea to present the findings of the study to the Moline City Council in a work session on April 15 to present key findings from a feasibility study conducted by NVA. The study is helping us determine if a Public Market can thrive in downtown Moline — focusing on community interest, stakeholder involvement, operational viability, and financial feasibility.
Public Markets have the potential to serve as vibrant economic hubs, fostering local small-business growth, creating public-gathering spaces, and increasing access to fresh, healthy foods. The feasibility study revealed a need for these activities in Moline and a strong interest from organizations eager to operate within such a space. While the Spiegel Building site shows promise, the study also evaluated an alternative location to build new. New Venture Advisors’ report can be found here: PowerPoint Presentation. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for updates on a potential public market!
Ramp Up! Moline
Since July of 2024, the Moline Centre Program has led an effort to bring merchants and property owners together with the City to plan for the anticipated impacts of the Arsenal viaduct redecking project. Scheduled to start in July, the Arsenal viaduct project will require reduced parking in two downtown City-owned surface lots, closures on River Drive and 4th Avenue (not simultaneously), and detours in downtown during the eighteen-month project. In coordination with City leadership and staff, the Moline Centre Program hosted informational meetings on January 9 for downtown merchants and property owners to discuss the anticipated impacts and collaborative ways the downtown community can work together to prepare for the project period. The meetings were well attended, and information provided by the merchants and property owners about their parking needs, delivery schedules, and questions and concerns provided helpful information to develop parking management and communication plans. The work of this Ramp Up! Moline initiative continues and the engagement from the downtown community and support of the City has been impactful in the project preparation process. For more information about the Arsenal viaduct project and Ramp Up! Moline, visit molinecentre.org/projects.
Skinner Block Courtyard 2025 Events
After five years of dormancy, the Moline Centre Program re-activated the historic Skinner Block Courtyard with three Chillin’ in the Courtyard daytime live music events. These events were made possible with support from Renew Moline, the City of Moline, and the Sound Conservatory (the music and sound system sponsor) and attendance increased for each event. Now, in 2025, the Skinner Block Courtyard will offer more events during a longer season — May through October. The daytime events will move to evenings, with six Rockin’ in the Courtyard events scheduled on the second Saturday of the month starting on May 10. You are also invited to join us for a Great Race watch party on Sunday, June 22, with live music from 3 on the Tree as over 100 antique cars roll past the courtyard on River Drive on their way to John Deere Commons. The watch party is a free event, 12-6PM, with food and beverages available for purchase and live music starting at 3PM. The cars are expected to arrive around 4:30PM, so bring a lawn chair (some seating available) and join us for an afternoon of music, fun, and classic cars. For more information about these courtyard events, follow the Moline Centre Facebook page or visit molinecentre.org/skinner-block-courtyard.
Also, if you are looking for an outdoor venue for a small event or fundraiser, please contact us for information about the historic Skinner Block Courtyard — kmarske@renewmoline.com, (309) 762-9190.
Handy at Home Workshop Series Update!
Over the past few months, Moline CDC and Butterworth Center have continued to empower homeowners with practical knowledge through our Handy at Home Workshop Series. Most recently, we hosted two invaluable sessions focused on energy efficiency in the home and plumbing basics, helping participants take charge of their household maintenance and sustainability.
During the Energy Efficiency Workshop, attendees discovered simple yet effective ways to reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and create a more eco-friendly home. Experts shared best practices for insulation, smart appliances, and energy-saving habits that make a difference.
At the Plumbing Essentials Workshop, participants learned how to troubleshoot common plumbing issues, from leaky faucets to clogged drains. Hands-on demonstrations provided insights into basic repairs, preventative maintenance, and knowing when it’s time to call a professional.
These workshops are designed to build confidence and practical skills for homeowners, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to maintain their homes effectively. Stay tuned for upcoming sessions as we continue to offer valuable learning opportunities!
For more information, visit www.molinecdc.org or call 309-796-9190.
Tree Education Session!
Moline CDC is hosting a Tree Education Session. Trees play a crucial role in our environment, improving air quality, conserving energy, and enhancing the beauty of our community. Proper tree education ensures that we plant, care for, and maintain trees effectively, leading to healthier neighborhoods and a more sustainable future.
Join us for an informative session with Renew Moline, Moline Community Development Corporation, and the City of Moline to learn best practices for tree maintenance, the benefits of urban forestry, and how you can contribute to a greener community. This workshop will provide essential knowledge on tree care, sustainability, and community greening efforts.
Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or tree enthusiast, this session is perfect for anyone looking to contribute to a greener community. We look forward to seeing you there!
Date: Friday, May 16, 2025
Location: Stephens Park, 531 15th Avenue, Moline (Large Pavilion on the North Side of the Park)
Time: 10AM–12PM
Cost: Free! — Registration is required at molinecdc.org
Feel free to contact Crystal at ccrayne@renewmoline.com or 309-762-9190 for more information.
