New Biergarten and Centre Stage Offer Unique Downtown Venue

Updated 09/13/05

Moline Centre Alley, Centre Stage and the new Biergarten provide the downtown area with a unique gathering place for outdoor events and festivals.

Located at 15th Street and 4th Avenue, Moline Centre Alley is a continuation of the streetscape development along 15th Street and 5th Avenue. "The goal is to entice the thousands of visitors to John Deere Commons to stay and enjoy the rest of downtown Moline," said Sandy Doran of Shive-Hattery, landscape architect and design team leader. "The pedestrian-friendly streetscape and plazas make downtown more inviting, attracting more people to local businesses."

A New Orleans-style façade overlooking the Biergarten is outlined with decorative fencing, lighting and Japanese lilac trees. Seating includes European cafe tables and chairs with bright blue umbrellas and a small stage for live music. A canopy of "string lighting"  illuminates the Biergarten at night along with light fixtures hung from brick decorative columns that light the pedestrian promenade. Two double-gated entrances feature colored paving leading into courtyards for Bierstube and the Bent River Brewery.

Project improvements included resurfacing of the alley and revamping of city parking lots T and U. The lots are lighted for added safety and security, and long-term parking is available for downtown businesses and visitors. The Biergarten and parking lots offer a unique venue for outdoor concerts and public gatherings.

“I am very impressed with this particular project as an example of what City government and downtown businesses can accomplish by working together for the betterment of the community,” said Lew Steinbrecher, City Administrator. “I appreciate the vision and guidance of the City Council in supporting this project, and am grateful for everyone who has worked together to make this cooperative effort a success.”

The total cost of the project is $500,000. The sum of $350,000 is being funded through the City’s TIF (Tax Increment Financing) fund and the balance from private investment.

“This is another example of the public/private partnership working together to revitalize downtown, and evidence of the City’s commitment to on-going public improvements,” said Jim Bowman, Executive Director, Renew Moline. 

“Nestled in the heart of downtown Moline, the new Biergarten will allow for great live outdoor entertainment and a host of many other activities including the annual Bierstube Oktoberfest,” said Dieter Rebitzer, Owner of Bierstube. “We are pleased to partner with the City of Moline to bring this outdoor gathering place for residents and visitors.”

“The momentum continues,” said Dan Whitaker, Chairman, Moline Centre Partners. "Moline Centre Alley is a unique gathering place unlike any other downtown venue in the Quad Cities.”