Vision Statement

Vision
We hope to create a vibrant Historic Millwork District with a diverse, user-friendly environment for residents, businesses, workers and visitors. The district will enhance the quality of life in the Dubuque area through the creation of an active, spirited neighborhood and cultural destination in a convenient location in the city of Dubuque for both residents and visitors. 

The revitalization of the Historic Millwork District will create a mixed-use commercial and residential product not currently available in the Dubuque market through the conversion of buildings into multi-use structures containing businesses, restaurants, shops, recreational facilities, and residences. The revitalization project will capitalize on the historic charm and existing building space in the district to retain the district's unique character and maintain a link to Dubuque's millwork industrial history. This approach will allow for retention of existing businesses as well as the development and expansion of new businesses in the large warehouse spaces. Additionally, the Historic Millwork Districts status as an establishment with the National Register will be maintained as the industrial warehouses are adapted into office, commercial, and residential space.

A sustainable model based upon the five infrastructure systems of water, energy, development, vegetation and open space, and arts and culture, provides a framework for sustainable implementation of the district plan.   
 
The Historic Millwork District development plan is designed to both attract funding from public programs and encourage private investment in the district. We intend to assist new and current developers and local businesses with the financial means to revitalize the district. Mutually beneficial public-private partnerships will continue to be established and developed to advance the revitalization project. 

A primary goal of the Historic Millwork Revitalization Project includes the creation of a unique neighborhood which offers the opportunity to "live, work, and play" all within the district. To achieve this goal, residential-oriented objectives include the development of a mixed-income neighborhood with both rental and for-sale loft units and upper condo space, establishment of an outdoor central square or plaza, and extension of the Heritage Trail into the district. To complement the residential market, commercial objectives in the district include the development of retail and specialty shops, restaurants, bars, live entertainment venues, and vending items. Additionally, commercial and industrial objectives include the development of artist studios, a museum affiliated with the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, business space for entrepreneurs with shared administration space and support functions, office space including creative loft office space, industrial and manufacturing space, boutique inns, and a community commerce center.