Dallas-based developer says QC has a unique balance that’s hard to find
Grow Quad Cities recently welcomed Garet Tomlinson of Dallas-based Mohr Partners, a leading global corporate real estate firm, for an up close look at the region's people, projects and economic opportunities during one of the area's signature events – the John Deere Classic, a premier PGA tour event. “From an outsider's perspective, the QC feels like a market with significant momentum that many people simply haven't discovered yet,” said Tomlinson.
While at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Tomlinson experienced the energy, hospitality and community pride that make the JDC a showcase for the Quad Cities. The event also provided opportunities to connect with business and community leaders and learn more about the region's continued growth and investment activity.
“I was extremely impressed with th
e Classic,” said Tomlinson. “It was one of the best-run and most professional-feeling events I've attended. The tournament has the execution of an event in a much larger market while still maintaining an atmosphere that's welcoming and easy to navigate. It's a tremendous showcase for the Quad Cities, and I think it highlights the region's ability to successfully host major events while continuing to invest in future growth,” he said.
“It was a pleasure to welcome Garet Tomlinson to the Quad Cities during our most recent familiarization tour,” said Peter Tokar III, President and CEO of Grow Quad Cities. “Each year, we host site selectors and business leaders exploring relocation or investment opportunities and give them a chance to personally experience our region. The JDC was the perfect opportunity to invite him to see us in our element - warm, welcoming and energized by one of the region’s biggest events."
“Nothing replaces the value of experiencing a community firsthand,” added Tami Petsche, Vice President of Business Attraction for Grow Quad Cities. “Every visit is an opportunity to build relationships that can lead to future projects and long-term economic growth,” she said.
Tomlinson's visit also included conversations with local leaders about the region's economic momentum, collaborative approach to development and quality of life. Along the way, he got a taste of our region by visiting locally owned restaurants and downtowns on both sides of the river. Discussions highlighted the Quad Cities' strengths in manufacturing, workforce development, healthcare and construction. Tomlinson also met with economic development professionals from across the region to learn more about current projects and future growth opportunities.
“The Quad Cities offers a unique balance that's becoming harder to find,” said Tomlinson. “It has the sense of community and accessibility of a smaller market, while supporting advanced manufacturing, innovation and a growing mix of emerging industries.”
While in the QC, the GQC team introduced Tomlinson to areas experiencing new developments like The Plex sports and entertainment district, which will soon be home to two recently announced office and healthcare projects.
By the end of his visit, Tomlinson, whose development focus includes industrial, healthcare and life sciences, had gained a broader understanding of what makes the QC competitive for business investment. “I was pleasantly surprised by the number of life sciences and healthcare-focused companies in the region. There's some impressive work being done around innovation and advancing healthcare that isn't widely known outside the market, and I think that's a real strength the Quad Cities can continue to build upon,” he added.
Tomlinson said strong core industries are one of the first things site selectors look for when evaluating a market, but many communities struggle to grow beyond them. “It’s clear that the QC has made a deliberate effort to attract younger talent, invest in quality-of-life amenities and create an environment where both businesses and people want to stay long term. That reinforces my confidence in the region’s future,” he said.
