A number of storefronts in the MedQuarter Regional Medical District saw updates in 2018 thanks to the MedQuarter Facade Improvement Program. Since the Program’s inception in 2015, the MedQuarter, in partnership with the City of Cedar Rapids, has been making funds available to property owners and businesses located within the District for qualifying exterior improvements up to $10,000. To date the program has supported eight projects with awards totaling over $44,000.
Projects completed in 2018 include:
- 808 Third Avenue SE building – Building owners Richard & Marlyce Larson performed exterior improvements to the newly exposed west side of their building including a two-tone paint design. Tenants Gilded Pear gallery and Kor are located here.
- 1233 First Avenue SE building – Building owner John Wasta had a new metal façade installed. This building houses the First Avenue Executive Suites where the Better Business Bureau, SYNERGY HomeCare and Cedar Rapids Police Substation are located.
- The History Center (800 Second Avenue SE) – Two grants were awarded for the significant historic renovation of the Douglas Mansion, including he brick perimeter wall along Eighth Street and the front porch facing Second Avenue SE.
Helping property owners improve the public-facing portions of their buildings creates a more inviting district for visitors. The Medical SSMID Commission recently approved another round of funding for their Façade Improvement Program for 2019. If you’re a property and/or business owner in the MedQuarter interested in applying for the program, head to www.themedq.com/about-medq/economic-development or contact MedQuarter Executive Director Phil Wasta at phil@themedquarter.com.
