Dubuque's Upper Main Street Revitalization project completely renovated six blighted buildings, restoring 14 historic storefronts and creating 30 high-quality, affordable apartments.

 

Many of the businesses along this stretch of Main Street had been vacant for nearly 20 years, while the upper residential space had gone unused for as long as 40 years. Of the six buildings in the project, three were considered structurally unsound, and two were just one day away from a demolition permit. The few businesses that were located in this area had very little economic success the past three decades.

 

This project not only restored the block's storefronts to historic accuracy, it helped spark an economic rehabilitation in the area. Upper Main Street is now home to several new retail/hospitality businesses and 30 new apartment units. It has become a safe and walkable neighborhood with access to services and transportation. More importantly, it has been renewed with sustainable and environmentally friendly materials.