Renaissance Rock Island is the umbrella name for three inter-connected organizations dedicated to the revitalization of Rock Island.

Now celebrating its 30^th year and over $150 million in leveraged resources, Renaissance Rock Island is rebuilding its community block by block, improving the quality of life and providing a economic impact and job creation.

Development Association of Rock Island, or DARI, was formulated in 1986 with a mission to promote commercial, industrial and recreational development through ownership or management of businesses s or properties, or by providing business assistance to enhance the local tax base and quality of life in Rock Island. DARI has a hard-earned reputation for the being the one that gets things done. It leads the development efforts downtown.

Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation, or GROWTH, joined forces with the former Breach Menders in 1982 as a 501c3 Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) that works as the cornerstone organization of Renaissance Rock Island. GROWTH is regarded as a local and national leader in developing innovative housing opportunities and projects by convening and facilitating work among various community partners. 

The Downtown Rock Island Arts & Entertainment District, or The District, markets the downtown and is the producer of unique downtown events.

Renaissance Rock Island’s real impact is not simply in numbers; it’s the feeling that we are doing what is right for our community. Renaissance Rock Island has successfully stabilized the population base (welcoming over 560 homebuyers since 1998); created jobs (supported nearly 1700 jobs*); increased local tax base (over $1 million in retail sales tax and increase of up to 150% on property taxes*); provided positive economic impact (over $233 million during special events) since Renaissance Rock Island’s beginning.

The renaissance is not complete. The organization continues to work with its partners rebuilding Rock Island block by block. The commitment and passion of Renaissance Rock Island continues to uncover, redevelop and celebrate our community’s past while building for its future.

Click here for the Renaissance Rock Island organizational chart.