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Looking Back...and Forward
Downtown Partners, Inc. continues to see an amount of activity unprecedented since Burlington's Main Street program was established in 1986. From landmark redevelopments to new businesses to beautification, downtown's momentum is unstoppable. At the beginning of a new year, it's fitting to look back on what has been accomplished. In 2016:
- Over $8.4 million in private investment took place, with 36 completed property rehabs ranging from new signage to new apartments to interior and exterior work
- Burlington Bent River Brewing Co. opened at 500 Jefferson, vacant for 39 years
- Ten business starts were welcomed, with a net gain of 4 businesses and 22 FTE jobs
- 300 Washington was purchased by Downtown Partners to facilitate redevelopment
- Fourteen properties were purchased for a total investment of nearly $1.2 million
- The depot waiting room was restored
- The steeple and tower lighting phase of the Burlington Lightscape Project was completed, illuminating eight landmark buildings
- A comprehensive parking study was completed in partnership with the City
- The new Hopefully Yours building was completed at 617 Jefferson
- Five additional blade signs have been completed with the Downtown Partners signage grant program, designed to support businesses and beautify downtown
- The farmers market was relocated to Jefferson St.
- A Very Vintage Market proved to be our most successful event launch ever
- Over 3200 volunteer hours were recorded for Downtown Partners - everything from attending workshops to moving barricades to planting flowers
This flourish of activity indicates the ongoing success of the Main Street approach to downtown revitalization. Businesses are realizing that it makes sense to invest in resources such as historic buildings and existing infrastructure in a downtown with plentiful amenities, an attractive setting, and a growing population. In addition to its regular program of work, Downtown Partners will be working diligently on a number of significant projects this coming year, including:
- Complete roof repairs and conduct cleanup of 300 Washington and market for redevelopment
- Support efforts to expand public art offerings in the downtown
- Work with the City of Burlington to prepare an application for a CDBG façade project in 2018
Considering everything that has been accomplished and everything that is in the works, Downtown Burlington has plenty of reason to toot its New Year's horn a little louder in 2017!
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Welcome New Businesses!
We are pleased to welcome the new businesses that have opened their doors in Downtown Burlington in the past twelve months:
- Kozlowski Law Group, 218 Jefferson
- AFLAC, 320 N. Third, Ste. 416
- Burlington Vintage & Co., 515 Jefferson
- Olive Wine, 517 Jefferson
- KS Esthetics & Massage, 409 N. Fourth, Ste. 1
- Underwood Martial Arts Academy, 123 S. Third
- Krafted Bar & Bistro, 322 N. Fourth
- Burlington Bent River Brewing Co., 500 Jefferson
- Cheryl's School of Dance, 315 N. Main
- Beancounter Coffeehouse & Drinkery, 212 Jefferson
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The Latest News...
- Thanks to all the businesses, property owners, and participants who made December's Living Windows event such a success! We had more windows decorated and more live music than in any previous year, and Santa's Cottage and the ice sculptor were big hits. We especially appreciate presenting sponsor Two Rivers Bank & Trust, the Burlington Fire Department for running the marshmallow roasting station, and event coordinator Gretchen Walls. This is a great event that continues to grow.
- Asbestos abatement has been completed at 300 Washington, the former Typewriter Shop. We will be addressing immediate drainage and structural concerns this winter in advance of getting a new roof put on in the spring.
- Most of the scattered 10 minute parking spaces downtown have been converted to be the same as the rest of the blocks they are on. This includes the four spaces in the 200 block of Jefferson, which are now 1 hour. Be looking for an informational public discussion of parking changes next month.
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 Visit Downtown Burlington, Iowa Facebook!
Get the scoop on live music and events, business openings, building rehabs, and more - visit Downtown Burlington, Iowa on Facebook! And while you're Liking us online, don't forget to check out all the great downtown businesses that have their own Facebook page as well.
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"The mission of Downtown Partners is to preserve and revitalize downtown Burlington by enhancing its economy, infrastructure, and historical and cultural features."
A Main Street Iowa Program
A Division of the Greater Burlington Partnership
RiverPark Place
610 N. 4th Street, Suite 200
Burlington, IA 52601
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