Kyle Day opened his law office in Downtown Rock Island two years ago. When he realized his small space in the Safety Building was only big enough to hold his desk and not much more – he became interested in buying a building a few blocks away at 120 16 ½ St.
“My practice is small by design, but I’ve reached a point where a larger space is necessary to store records, host clients and build my team,” he said. "I also wanted to create a unique and comfortable space for my clients."
The newly renovated building is an eye-catching addition to the north side of a historic block, anchored by the mixed-use Goldman Lofts, which features apartments on the upper floors and Brick and Motor Boutique, Brewed Awakening Coffee Co. (coming soon) and a wellness-focused incubator on the first floor.
“For me, there’s a steadiness in the Rock Island community – we have a willingness to do the hard work to build back something special in this downtown that reflects the unique identity of the people here,” Day said of his and other investments downtown.
He added the City of Rock Island was proactive, supportive and easy to work with, helping with initial site selection, tax increment financing and other available economic incentives and improvements around the property – like new sidewalk.
Day Law will be move-in ready soon, and renovations include everything from a much-needed paint job to new windows and an outdoor patio space on the second floor. Day did a full remodel of the interior, creating a more open floor plan on the first floor that includes a client meeting space, conference room, two storage rooms, an office, library and additional work space. In addition to the second-floor patio, upstairs includes a private office and conference room.
“One of the best things about this location is the view that includes Downtown Rock Island, the Centennial Bridge, Schwiebert Riverfront Park and the Lock and Dam," he said. "It’s really worth highlighting and the patio felt like the perfect way to showcase it.”
The renovation is another step toward a more vibrant commercial neighborhood and follows successful new businesses like Blue Collar Bagels and Mr. Wings at the corner of 2nd Ave. and 18th St.
“I see Downtown Rock Island rebuilding from the inside out,” Day said. “As a community, I think we understand that we need to be the engine for the progress and growth we all want to see in Downtown Rock Island. I see this community coming together to make that happen.”
