The MARK is perhaps a blueprint of how an arena can revitalize a downtown area. Mulcahey said the area that now surrounds the arena used to be vacant and boarded-up warehouses. We had heard that civic centers always operate in the red, but apparently, there was a market. To guard against debt, and to improve the experience of visitors, Moline turned the factories and warehouses into quaint shops and restaurants. The bus station across the street from the arena helps manage traffic.
Bike paths run along the river, and act as a levee to protect against flooding.
While Davenport, across the river, made national news because of severe riverfront flooding, Moline stayed relatively dry. The river never even touched the bottom of sand bags placed on the bike paths in front of the arena. With one million visitors per year through conferences, concerts and sporting events, The MARK has been profitable every year according to Mulcahey and Ward. Part of its success is the fact that it s so modern. The arena has 15 private suites and a large screen for instant replays.