Filter: Downtown Development

Wisconsin has many destinations with perfect amenities for a “girls’ getaway” weekend—but only a few that truly offer the whole package.

This isn’t the kind of shop class where you end up with a bookcase that Mom treasures. In these classes, students use high-tech equipment to make anything from robots to prototypes of the next big idea.

Each year, WEDC honors the hard work, dedication and countless hours that go into revitalizing and promoting Wisconsin’s Main Streets and downtowns. Wisconsin Main Street Program leaders and volunteers from across the state came together virtually through dozens of socially distanced “watch parties” on April 21 for the annual Wisconsin Main Street Awards, which celebrate success stories in business and community development, historic preservation and downtown revitalization.

Soon, children may once again be learning at the Frank Lloyd Wright–designed Wyoming Valley School while their parents attend concerts and people of all ages take part in arts classes, exhibits and more.

May is Historic Preservation Month, so it is fitting that this issue of INtersections highlight some of the individuals around the state who have undertaken impactful local renovations of historic downtown properties. Investment in ongoing maintenance and periodic renovation or restoration of older or historic buildings is a key elements of downtown revitalization.

Farmers markets are important to communities in many ways. They are a critical component in rebuilding local food economies. They provide a cost-effective, retail sales opportunity for local food producers, and often for artisan businesses as well. And they are a beloved social gathering place for many Wisconsinites.

More often than not, parking issues in downtown districts stem from one or more of the following: confusion about available parking; abuses and enforcement; and physical condition and design. Here are solutions to those issues.

Events and promotions are an important part of what make your downtown a destination. However, it is important that event hosts have a regular process for reviewing what went well and what could be improved.

With additions to the side, rear or top of buildings, it is very important that the new portion does not physically or visually damage the existing building. Any new addition should take design cues from the original building style.

If you’re just getting started with downtown revitalization and lacking inspiration, here are 65 ideas to help get started.