WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. (WSAU) — The state is helping with renovation costs on a Wisconsin Rapids riverfront property that will become a unique redevelopment. Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation has awarded a $472,000 dollar grant to the city of Wisconsin Rapids to help pay for renovations at the Tribune building.
The nearly 20-thousand square foot structure was originally built in 1960 for the Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune newspaper, which moved out two years ago. The building was also home to two radio stations for several years. Now, Incourage Community Foundation owns the site, and plans to revitalize the space with several features. Once completed, there will be a microbrewery with a rooftop lounge, a creative workshop, culinary kitchen facilities, meeting rooms, youth spaces, and some retails sites.
With the grant award, Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch said, “Here we have entrepreneurs, community leaders and social service organizations working together to improve the quality of life for all residents of the city. I congratulate Wisconsin Rapids on this exciting project.” Mayor Zach Vruwink believes the unique riverfront and surrounding spaces possess great potential in growing our local economy and stimulating investment.
Construction on the Tribune building redevelopment will start yet this fall, and will continue throughout 2016 for an anticipated opening in early 2017.
If you’re curious about the designs, they have the plans posted online.
