Charting a New Path for the Region's Economic Future

GWPP believes that placemaking efforts are key aspects of the Greater Wausau Region Economic Development Strategic Plan and approach for economic vitality. Placemaking strategies consider the role of amenities both for residents and tourists. Creating quality places are an essential ingredient for attracting and retaining talent and companies. Maximizing the opportunities associated with the region’s multitude of natural outdoor recreational assets and accelerating the pace of urban development along the Wisconsin River and throughout the downtown are important aspects of this goal.

The Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership (GWPP), in collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), has developed a trail network concept plan for Rib Mountain State Park that is consistent with the park’s property master plan.

The project team has worked collaboratively to develop a cohesive and sustainable trail network plan, and includes leadership from the DNR, IMBA Trail Solutions, GWPP, Central Wisconsin Offroad Cycling Coalition (CWOCC), Friends of Rib Mountain State Park, Granite Peak Ski Area, Village of Rib Mountain, Wausau and Marathon County Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department, and Wisconsin Climbers Association.

The trail network plan includes concepts for a community path around the park property, shared-use natural surface trails, hiking trail realignments and additions, mountain bike trails, and Granite Peak Ski Area expansion.

• Second Street extension in downtown Wausau from Forest and Second Streets was completed in time for the opening of the Children's Imaginarium.
• Children's Imaginarium, Wausau's largest children's STEM museum, now open to the public.