Foundry on 3rd Construction Bringing New Housing and Retail Opportunities to Downtown Wausau
After nearly five years of meticulous planning and overcoming challenges, including a global pandemic, the anticipated Foundry on 3rd is finally becoming a reality. The construction phase officially commenced on May 31, 2024, with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by community leaders committed to spearheading progress for the revitalization of downtown Wausau.
Developer Terrence Wall, owner of T. Wall Enterprises, addressed the crowd where the aging Wausau Center Mall stood until 2021. He expressed his excitement for the pivotal project, saying "We're celebrating this vision becoming a reality."
Wall believes that being a good business neighbor includes creating long-term partnerships with solid communities. He's particularly drawn to Wausau's rich history, vibrant spirit and natural beauty. "The Foundry on 3rd will be a great addition to this city and its residents," said Wall. "It will provide a modern and sustainable living and shopping space that complements Wausau's unique charm."
With a proven track record, Wall said that Wausau residents should have confidence in the Foundry on 3rd, knowing that it's backed by a developer who has a history of delivering high-quality and well-received projects to other communities. Veritas Village of Madison is just one of Wall's premier properties, having received recognition for utilizing solar panels to offset 65% of the 189-unit property's common area electrical requirements.
Foundry on 3rd History in the Making
Construction of the Foundry on 3rd marks a significant milestone in downtown Wausau's history as the city strives to accommodate more residents and retailers. Developers plan to complete the multi-family housing project by the end of 2025 and start leasing in 2026. Stevens Construction Corp., headquartered in Madison, is the general contractor and will have an on-site liaison dedicated to facilitating communication with local businesses and the community. The group will have a presence here over the next four years as downtown projects progress.
"Adding more diversified housing options helps address the area's labor shortages and attract a talented workforce for our innovative companies," said Dave Eckman, president of WOZ. "We aim to foster a vibrant city rich with resources and economic activity by creating quality living spaces."
Eckmann emphasizes the growing attraction of urban landscapes and waterfront living. "After decades of discussions and planning with Wausau advocates, we are bringing people downtown and providing them with an opportunity to be closer to urban amenities and the Wisconsin River that meanders through our beautiful city."
What's Happening Now
Construction crews started excavating the underground portion of the parking ramp during June and continue to prep the foundation. The Foundry on 3rd will include a skywalk to the parking ramp, 154 units and approximately 17,500 square feet of commercial space on the bottom floor of the five-story building.
In addition to the Foundry on 3rd, other downtown developments include demolishing the deteriorating McClellan Street parking ramp with the lot becoming green space. Convenient parking options with two free hours include the JC Penney and HOM Furniture parking ramps, on-street parking and various parking lots with pay stations. The Passport Parking app saves time by locating parking and accepting payments right from a phone. Also, as a safety precaution, parking along the construction site perimeter on Washington Street will be eliminated.
McClellan Street parking ramp demolition
Tune in to Wausau News
Things are looking up as many business owners say they are optimistic about the city's future. In April, entrepreneurs Ryan Gallagher and Paul Grinsel launched the entertaining Wausau Business Show to spotlight the city and its impact-makers. With informative and engaging episodes, the podcast promotes economic and cultural growth. Tune in live once a week for an hour of fun on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. on 98.9 FM, Bull Falls Radio. The show is also available on Alexa, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Amid the construction and changing scenery, Wausau remains open for business, ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy the city's diverse offerings all year.
Happenings In and Around Downtown Wausau
Concert on the Square – Wednesdays from 6 – 8 p.m.
Featuring Copper Box on July 31 and Mama Ginger on August 7
Free concert on the 400 block each week! Food vendors each week. For the summer schedule, visit Wausau Events.
Wausau Farmers Market - Saturdays and Wednesdays
River Drive in Wausau for fresh vegetables, fruit and more. Starts at 7 a.m. until sold out. For more information, visit Wausau Farmers Market.
Jazz on the River - Sundays from 5– 7 p.m.
Featuring Bob Kase Quintet on July 28 and Ziji on August 4
Enjoy an evening of Jazz at the Kickbusch Plaza behind the Marathon Country Library. Bring your lawn chair and picnic basket. See the full schedule here.
Wausau Woodchucks
Check out a Wausau Woodchuck game at Athletic Park in Wausau for great family fun and entertainment. Upcoming home games are Thursday, July 25 at 6:35 p.m., Sunday, July 28 at 1:05 p.m. and Tuesday, July 30 at 6:35 p.m. Click here for information and tickets.
The Wausau Water Walkers – Tuesday, July 30 at 6:30 p.m.
Free show on Lake Wausau at Bluegill Bay Park, 153030 Oriole Lane, Wausau. See a dazzling show with all ages of talent. Shows are free to attend, donations are welcome, bleacher seating is provided, and a full concession stand is available. Visit this website for more.
Wisconsin Valley Fair July 31 – August 4
The annual Wisconsin Valley Fair held at Marathon Park offers a variety of food, rides, animals, exhibits and entertainment for the whole family. Grandstand events include musical performances by LOCASH, Night Ranger and Gabby Barrett, plus a demolition derby and rodeo. More details and ticket information are here.
Recreational Release & Whitewater Kayak Lessons
Saturday, August 3 – Sunday, August 4 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. each day
Kayakers, canoeists and boogie boarders of all ability levels are welcome to enjoy the river during recreational releases. Go to Wausau Whitewater’s website for more information.
Wausau Night Market Thursday, August 15 from 5 – 9 p.m.
Come downtown for the final Night Market on Third Street. Enjoy local makers, farmers, live music, sidewalk dining, and extended hours from your favorite businesses. Learn more about downtown shops and restaurants at Wausau River District.
Be Wausome and Enjoy Wausau!
Plenty of Parking in Downtown
With the convenience of the Passport Parking app, finding a parking spot downtown has never been easier and the first two hours are free. Parking is also free in the evenings after 6 p.m. and on weekends. Click here to learn more about downtown parking locations, costs, and pay stations.
Wausau Opportunity Zone, Inc. is leading the charge to inform Greater Wausau of progress made during the development phases of Downtown Wausau. WOZ collaborates with the Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership, local governments, businesses and organizations to involve and engage the community. To learn more, visit downtownrefresh.com.