A Midwest Explorer Asks, “Can Rock Island Make A Comeback?”

Every one of the Quad Cities is unique in its own way.  (And of course, when I say "Quad", I really mean like all 15 of them.)  Every city has its good spots and its bad spots.  Just depends on where you are and what you are looking to do.

However, in the video below, YouTuber Chris Harden finds a lot to be desired when taking a look at Rock Island.  He shows you the history you might not know about Rock Island, but also the current state of the city.

The Rich History Of Rock Island

The rich part is in reference to so many things that happened in Rock Island, and the fact that it used to be wealthy.

If you don't know the history, Chris will walk you through from the days of being a trading post and military installation, how that in 1856 Chicago Railroad built the first railroad bridge over the river.  Making it a major hub in the Midwest.

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There was a huge Rock Island industrial boom that included: Rock Island Plow Co., Rock Island Arsenal.  Rock Island Stove Co.  Rock Island Millwork.

However, the good times burned out slowly over 2 decades. By the end of the 80s, it was done.  And now, today, the city is still trying to figure out what comes next.

Rock Island Has The Look & Potential

"Rock Island has been ready for a comeback for 60 years," says Chris.

Rock Island was the second largest city in the Quad Cities; however, since the 1960s, the population has been on a decline.

Chris starts by walking through the District area of Rock Island.  He says, "There's only a handful of places open, and they all seem to be competing for the last one standing".  Chris says it has look and potential, it just doesn't have the business.

This was something I noticed right when I moved here 7 years ago.  And really, haven't been back since to see if things have changed.  Because it sounds like they have not changed.

He points out positives like Schweibert Riverfront Park, Circa 21, Augustana College, and the Hauberg Estate.

But he also sees all the abandoned homes, businesses, and even an abandoned museum.  He points out that crime is nearly double the national average.

And while at the end of the video his "livability" score isn't terrible...it gets a big boost from the rich history.  Which is long, long, long gone.

What Happened To Rock Island, Illinois?

This is the question this Midwest explorer asks in the video below.  And while that's a good question, the real question we who live in the Quad Cities need to ask is, "What can be done to bring Rock Island back?"