Bettendorf may change its development plans for downtown. On Wednesday night, city officials will hold a public meeting to discuss possible amendments to the "Downtown Master Plan." The current plan was redone in 2016, and already takes into account the new I-74 bridge and the urban park.
Bettendorf Economic Development Director Jeff Reiter says it's a great plan that sets standards for downtown development.
"It governs design standards, building, and structural standards that help set the tone and add a complimentary look and feel from an aesthetic standpoint whenever people look to develop or redevelop property."
The city wants to promote traffic, commerce, and walkability while encouraging growth and development. Downtown Bettendorf already restricts liquor stores, and Reiter says that if downtown business and property owners show interest at the meeting, the city could limit other types of businesses as well.
"We're hopeful to see more things like downtown grocery stores, restaurants, retail and living where people want to be down here. There are certain businesses uses, things like vape shops for instance, that are not necessarily the types of things that add the character that you'd like to see in a redeveloped downtown."
The ordinance would not affect already existing businesses downtown. The meeting will be held on Wednesday at 4 p.m. in the city council chambers at Bettendorf City Hall.