South of 6th Business District Celebrates Growth, Milestones, and Community Impact

At South of 6th Business District, we’re proud to celebrate a year filled with milestones that highlight our mission of revitalizing Iowa City’s South District. With seven new businesses, vibrant new banners, a community mural, and exciting events, we’ve laid the foundation for a future filled with growth and opportunity.

As we look ahead to 2024, we’re preparing to launch a strategic planning process that will guide future improvements and investments in the district, ensuring that our community continues to thrive.

Building a Community for Everyone

Our district was founded with the creation of a self-supporting municipal improvement district (SSMID) in 2022. This initiative allows property owners and businesses to collectively invest in revitalizing the Pepperwood Plaza area south of Highway 6. With nearly 50 properties—including restaurants, shops, nonprofits, and salons—our district is dedicated to enhancing the South District’s vibrancy and economic vitality.

Our collaborative approach has already yielded significant results. In the past year, we’ve secured nonprofit status, raised nearly $99,000 in grants and donations, and partnered with the City of Iowa City to launch a five-year revitalization plan. This plan focuses on improving aesthetics, increasing occupancy, and boosting property values while creating a more welcoming environment.

Exciting Developments and Community Initiatives

Key milestones from this past year include:

• New Businesses: Seven new businesses have joined our district, enriching our community with diverse offerings.
• South District Market: The grand opening of this indoor market, featuring a soul food restaurant, bakery, cafe, and artisan shop, has brought new energy to the area.
• Community Mural: A vibrant new mural now adorns the outdoor patio space, celebrating our district’s creativity and diversity.
• Free Public Wi-Fi: In partnership with ImOn Communications, we’ve launched free Wi-Fi in Pepperwood Plaza, supporting both visitors and businesses.
• Events and Programming: Our calendar of events—including a pop-up Diversity Market, leisure bike ride series, and business networking events—has fostered connections and showcased the best of what our district has to offer.

Looking to the Future

As we move into 2024, our partnership with Slingshot Architecture will guide the development of a comprehensive master plan, supported by a $250,000 investment from the City of Iowa City. This plan includes pilot projects such as improved signage, enhanced pedestrian crossings, additional murals and public art, and the creation of a pocket park and outdoor event space.

“We’re excited to use these resources to implement projects that will make a lasting impact,” said Executive Director Angie Jordan. “Our goal is to build awareness of the investments being made here and inspire others to join us in creating a district where businesses thrive and residents feel a true sense of belonging.”

At South of 6th Business District, we’re committed to fostering a multicultural ecosystem that celebrates diversity, drives innovation, and enhances the Iowa City experience. We invite businesses, residents, and partners to join us as we continue building a vibrant, connected community.