WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — A new RFP will soon be released for another portion of the Riverfront area in downtown Wausau.
At the monthly Economic Development Committee meeting, there was discussion regarding the potential release of an RFP for the South Riverfront Area. The RFP would be asking for consulting firms to submit proposals with a methodology to plan the future and redevelopment of the south Riverfront area.
Director of Planning, Community, and Economic Development Chris Schock says the area would be south of Washington St. near River Dr. in the city. He describes how the RFP would focus on planning the area and potential parcels for the future. “We’d like to examine those and kind of look at if there were options what would be the highest and best use. What market potential would be there. How can we maximize the assets like the Farmers Market and whitewater course to improve in the future as well.”
There was some pushback from members of the committee who thought adding an RFP for the area would be too much for the city. There were also concerns that the project would take away from what the area already has.
Schock says the plan is to help improve the already existing features in the area. “I think folks just want to see the assets of the area improve and magnify. Which we expect we’d do. You know the Rivers Edge Trail is an important asset. The kayak course, and the other features in the area.”
The process would also heavily involve those who already have features in the area. Schock explains how groups like WPS would be involved with the RFP process. “We will have a steering committee that will involve many of the stakeholders in that area like WPS and the county and other entities. To ensure that the plan is realistic for what they’re proposing and that it has a basis in the opportunities.”
The release of the RFP was approved by the committee with a 4-1 vote. Alderperson for District 5 Gary Gissleman was the lone no vote. Schock expects the RFP to be released in the near future and be open for around a month.
Schock also gave an update on the Riverlife Villages Phase 1 project. The recommendation of Gorman and Company to take over the project is in the finalization stage. The recommendation will be discussed and actionable at Tuesday’s city council meeting.
