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Davenport tries again for River80 funding

Davenport city leaders will head to Des Moines this week to make a second pitch to the state for funding. The city is taking another shot at trying to get state...

Davenport city leaders will head to Des Moines this week to make a second pitch to the state for funding.

The city is taking another shot at trying to get state funding for their $73.8 million River80 project. The mix-use plan at I-80 and I-74 calls for construction for an outdoor/indoor multiple sports complex, an indoor surfing facility, three hotels, restaurants and retail stores right next to the new casino.

"Its our local tax money that goes to the state one way or another. We're trying to get some of it back to Davenport to create more jobs and grow the city`s tax base," said Davenport Mayor Bill Gluba.

Last year the city of Davenport applied for state funding but their application wasn't approved. Now this year the city is hopeful they'll be chosen.

"Huge benefits to the state, local community and its increases a huge amount of tax based, which is money for the schools," said Mayor Gluba.

Davenport will also use city hotel/motel tax funds, generated by the new development to improve the city's riverfront.

"Davenport is Iowa's front porch so the state sees the wisdom of putting some of these major tourist attractions right there on I-74 and 80 to draw more tourists," said Mayor Gluba.

Out of all the applicants Davenport is the front-runner for economic impact, drawing in $2.5 billion over the next 20 years. Davenport is competing against other cities for funding. The state will decide sometime in June.

 

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