With a standing-room-only crowd, over 125 people attended the Downtown Racine Corporation’s Annual State of the Downtown and Achievement Award Presentation on Monday, January 26 at The Red Onion.
Kelly Kruse, executive director, announced some exciting new things for 2026 as well as recapped the accomplishments of 2025 on topics from business development, marketing, downtown events and clean and safe initiatives.
Highlights included:
· 21 New Businesses: Nearly double new businesses opened in 2025 compared to 2024.
· Unlocking Capital Grant: Downtown Racine was one of six downtowns in the Nation to receive a $70k grant to attract new business.
· Events with Impact: The Downtown Racine Corporation (DRC) hosted 80+ event dates in 2025 with Party on the Pavement bringing in over one million in direct spending. HayMarket also noted nearly $500k spent in the district over the 7 dates.
· Downtown BID Investments: The Downtown Business Improvement District (BID #1) invested in a new street sweeper, and 25 new holiday wreaths to enhance the area’s appeal.
· Innovative Public Art: For its 25th year of Public Art, DRC announced a partnership with Gateway Technical College’s welding and wood working students to create 25 giant “Greetings from Racine” postcards, adding a unique artistic element to downtown.
“To be able to share this type of information to the large audience that we had was exciting, especially given the tremendous diversity of the stakeholders in attendance. We look forward to sharing additional updates as significant progress is made during 2026 and beyond. Downtown is the heart and economic driver of our community.”- stated Kelly Kruse, DRC Executive Director
“With so much happening and growing in Downtown Racine it is always exciting to celebrate the accomplishments of this great community. We are extremely proud of the work we have put in, to make us a thriving, activated destination,” 2025 DRC board chairman Austin Schultz said.
“The Downtown BID (Business Improvement District) has worked diligently to make significant advancements to our downtown. Making initiatives such as promotion, beautification and cleaning priorities have driven positive change,” stated 2025 Downtown BID chairman, Andrew Dodge.
This event also celebrates individuals and organizations that helped excel Downtown Racine throughout 2025. The winners of this year’s Downtown Achievement Awards were announced at the State of the Downtown. Over 90 nominations were received this year. The winners are as follows:
Honorable Mention: COP House honoring Chief Ramirez, Liz Powell and Jim Ladwig and City Officials
Honorable Mention: Gateway Technical College Welding students
Corporate Citizenship Award: An individual who has been a catalyst in improving downtown; has provided service to the downtown community and has worked tirelessly to promote downtown.
Winner: Michael Godfrey, Dominion Properties
Downtown Showcase Award: Celebrating an exhilarating event, person, or organization that has not only attracted visitors and residents but has also significantly contributed to transforming downtown into a lively, dynamic, and happening hub.
Winner: Christmas ‘Eave’
Best New Small Business Award: A new retail shop, gallery or restaurant that has captured the attention of the marketplace and helped enhance downtown.
Winner: Stitched Quilt Shop
Downtown Champion Award: A business or organization that is the ultimate citizen, supporting downtown through employment, facilities, and sponsorship.
Winner: Reefpoint Brew House
CPR Award: The redevelopment of a downtown building or property that has helped enhance the overall downtown neighborhood and revitalize the area.
Winner: Tulip Tavern
6th Street Standout: Recognizes a business that has been a driving force in revitalizing the 6th Street area through innovative ideas, community impact, and attracting tourism to the district.
Winner: Opulence Beauty Lounge
Decades of Dedication: A business or individual whose lasting contributions have shaped the fabric of our downtown for over a decade.
Winner: Hot Shop Glass
The entire presentation can be viewed on the DRC’s Facebook page (@downtownracine).