Grant funds give Medford, Gilman economic boosts
Pavilion will allow developing Whelen Park to host events, draw visitors to downtown Medford
The City of Medford is receiving a $50,000 Vibrant Spaces grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) to fund the construction of a pavilion in the city’s Whelen Park.
The Vibrant Spaces grant program is designed to help cities and towns revitalize underused spaces to build community and attract future residents. Through this grant program, communities across the state of Wisconsin will be investing in their workforce attraction and small business development by creating inviting, walkable spaces in their downtowns, gateway districts, and economic centers.
“Investing in vibrant communities where people want to live, work, and raise families is critical to attracting and retaining workers in our state,” said Missy Hughes, secretary and CEO of WEDC, the state’s leading economic development organization. “These grants will help communities create new gathering places in thriving downtowns to draw in residents, visitors, new businesses and investments.”
The City of Medford aims to construct a multi-use pavilion as a part of a broader effort to encourage new development and revitalize the city’s riverfront open space. WEDC’s Vibrant Spaces grant will fund the construction of a permanent community building, which will include a food service area, dining space, and public restrooms. Alongside encouraging economic development in the area, the space will make recreational activities along the Black River more accessible to visitors and community members. By highlighting the natural beauty and outdoor amenities in downtown Medford, the project aims to attract visitors and potential residents to the region.
“Our downtown is alive with growth and progress and we couldn’t be happier that the momentum won’t stop here. We have filled empty spaces, created new housing opportunities and worked with local industry leaders to cultivate Medford into a positive place to be. With the addition of this park and other businesses like Marilyn’s Medford and Taylor County reiterate that they are great places to live, to work and to play,” said Billie Henrichs of the Medford Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Vibrant Spaces Grant program is an initiative within WEDC’s Community Development and Investment (CDI) grant program. Projects were evaluated based on their ability to create visible and pedestrian oriented public spaces that attract and accommodate multiple users and activities. Successful projects demonstrated that they would benefit the local district, nearby businesses and the community as a whole. Communities were required to match grant funds and begin construction this summer.
