Popular social media sites now have a new user: downtown Rock Island. This month, Renaissance Rock Island launched a social media campaign, called "What's Up Downtown," to promote the area.
Coordinator, Avalon Thomas-Roebal, says residents can find out about the latest events and projects downtown. Plus, they can share ideas for possible new businesses using #WhatsUpDowntown" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
"We're aware that it's going to target maybe the "under 40" range, and that's who are going to be spending the money and eventually working in our city politics and enjoying the spaces that we've created down there."
She says downtown Rock Island has the benefit of walkability and small family businesses.
Renaissance Rock Island has also placed colorful signs that say "What's Up Downtown?" on shops and certain vacant buildings.
Let's say the former Kai's on second avenue or the historic Star Building near the new lofts development. These buildings are being worked on a transitioning and going to bring beautiful things to our downtown, and we want people to know that.
Thomas-Roebal says the social media campaign is going well so far, and that residents from teenagers to 67-year-olds have been interacting on the #WhatsUpDowntown social media pages.