In February 2020, the Downtown Davenport Partnership commissioned the development of a master plan to provide a framework for growth in downtown over the next ten years. The plan serves as a guide to build on the successes of the last 15 years, which has seen the downtown grow into a robust and active area and regional destination as a center for arts, culture, and entertainment in the Quad Cities region. 

The planning process was led by WXY Studio, SB Friedman and Schwartz Engineering while working closely with HR Green, the City's consultant conducting a flood mitigation study. The team engaged multiple stakeholders including: elected officials, policymakers, developers, local business owners, community-based organizations, public safety officers, and the general public.

All public forums were conducted virtually due to COVID-19. The team conducted over 25 interviews, three virtual focus groups, three steering committee meetings, and conducted an online perception survey that received over 500 responses.

Downtown Davenport 2030 - A Resilient City Vision Statement:

Davenport is resilient.

By 2030, Davenport has the potential to be a thriving residential center, a space for  entrepreneurship and innovation, and a hub for entertainment, arts, and play.

To achieve that goal, Davenport must invest heavily in its streets, public spaces and riverfront,  connect small businesses and entrepreneurs to capital, and focus on creating a unique and inclusive downtown experience.

The framework for growth is outlined with five pillars:

1. Playful, Connected & Protected - Enhance the downtown public realm and create a more resilient riverfront
2. Livable - Make downtown an attractive place for residents, families, and visitors
3. Innovative - Create an entrepreneurial ecosystem focused on attracting jobs, talent, inclusivity, and innovation
4. Inclusive - Create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive downtown through the design and programming of the public realm, fostering a small business entrepreneurial ecosystem, and creating varied housing options
5. Celebrated - Define Downtown Davenport's identity and brand within the region as an unconventional, inclusive, and unforgettable destination

The Plan & Zoning Commission reviewed the plan at its December 1, 2020 regular meeting and voted to forward the plan to City Council with the recommendation to accept the plan based on the following findings:

Downtown Davenport 2030 - A Resilient City

1. Supports the goals of the comprehensive plan Davenport+2035; and
2. Supports the purpose of the City of Davenport Zoning Code; and
3. Supports the land uses associations with the C-D Commercial Downtown Zoning District.