Studies Conducted by Renew Moline

The work conducted by Renew Moline extends to studying various issues that affect downtown’s development potential.  Renew has sought grants to study topics of importance (e.g. the future of the Spiegel Building) and conducted its own due diligence to investigate the residential housing market and prepare sites for marketing and redevelopment. 

Spiegel Building Feasibility Studies:

PGAV Planners – Market Demand Report and Feasibility Analysis – in late 2021, Renew Moline and the City of Moline hired PGAV Planners to evaluate potential uses for the Spiegel Building, located adjacent to the new I-74 Bridge. PGAV’s early work, a Market Demand Report, explored current trends in population, business development, demand, and existing supply in the region for a “food based” reuse concept. The study was completed in September 2022. The Feasibility Analysis explored one potential building layout and estimated costs for such a project. The “food-based ecosystem” concept explored through the PGAV contracts resulted in a “story map” illustrating the reuse scenario that was the basis for the studies. The Feasibility Analysis was completed in December 2021.

MKSK in partnership with New Venture Advisors – Given general interest in the “food based” approach to Spiegel reuse, Renew Moline sought grant funding to further evaluate the concept. Under the banner of the City’s Riverfront Plan, Renew Moline contracted with MKSK and New Venture Advisors to conduct detailed market research of the local food systems, producers and buyers, facility evaluation (the Spiegel Building) and develop cost and operating models. The study was completed in November 2024.

Downtown Housing Assessment (2025)

Renew Moline contracted with DiSalvo Development Advisors (DDA) to update the 2020 housing study and assess current rental housing market conditions and future housing demand for downtown Moline. The Third Quarter 2025 Housing Assessment builds on earlier work and reflects post-pandemic market shifts and demographic changes in the Quad Cities region. Based on current market conditions and projections, there is an unmet demand for approximately 334 upscale market-rate rental units in Moline Centre. 

The study also highlights ongoing demand for affordable housing citywide, with around 340 units needed, particularly as affordable rental stock has converted to market-rate. A planned 50-unit workforce housing project in Moline Centre is expected to be well received given high existing occupancy rates and market interests. The Assessment identifies opportunities for development that leverage downtown and riverfront location advantages, including rent premiums supported by proximity to amenities, river views, and walkable retail and restaurant districts. It also recommends continued use of incentive programs, such as the River Edge Redevelopment Zone, to attract developers and support new housing growth.

The 2025 Housing Assessment replaces an earlier 2020 study and identifies more current downtown housing needs and market opportunities for Moline Centre. 

Apartment Development Feasibility Analysis (2022)

Renew Moline contracted with DiSalvo Development Advisors and Gossman Group Design & Planning to update the findings of the 2020 Housing study in preparation for Renew Moline’s acquisition of 1701 5th Avenue. This more recent study concluded that the property consisting of a former JCPenney department store and parking lot could support 113-150 units and that there was limited opportunity for the developer to contribute to the site acquisition cost. 

Public Market Feasibility Study (2025)

Renew Moline hired New Venture Advisors (NVA) to evaluate reuse of Spiegel Building into a mixed-use public market as part of downtown Moline’s Riverfront + Centre Plan. The Public Market Feasibility Study evaluated vendor needs, stakeholder and community interest, construction and operational cost, and financial feasibility, while also considering an alternative “new build” option.  The findings showed strong demand from small businesses and entrepreneurs, highlighting opportunities for production, retail, educational programming, and community activities.  The project aims to preserve a historic building while fostering economic growth, supporting small businesses, and creating a vibrant community space. The proposed Public Market would create a collaborative hub across multiple floors, offering spaces for food and retail vendors, small business incubation, and offices. The NVA study was completed and presented to the Moline City Council in April 2025.