star block

1821-1823 2nd Avenue, Rock Island 
8 Residential, 2 Commercial
$2 Million Investment

Star Block was constructed in 1874 and was designated as a local Rock Island Landmark in 1991. Although appearing to be one single entity, Star Block consists of multiple buildings, all under one ownership structure. T

o further meet the housing needs of the community, this 140-year old historic, landmarked structure at 1821-1823 2nd Ave. was rehabilitated by GROWTH into eight (8) artist-inspired lofts with first floor commercial space.  

The over $2.1 million project includes the creation of eight residential rental units and rehabilitation of approximately 1,200 square feet of commercial space, facing the Great River Plaza in downtown Rock Island. This effort preserved and transformed the Star Block into one and two bedroom live-work rental units ranging in size from 564 to 1,100 square feet.

The first floor commercial space was cut in half, making way for accessible, affordable units at the rear of first floor. 

Star Block’s eight residential units feature one and two bedroom apartments ranging from 564 to 1,100 square feet, that lend themselves well for artisans wishing to live in an area that serves as an apartment and artist studio. 

Interesting Fact: The three-dimensional star in the peak is original.

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​Above: Star Block circa 1990's

Below:  Postcards of the Star Block buildings along 2nd Avenue, early 1900's.

Below Left: The three dimensional star in the peak is original to the building.