MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the City of Marshfield Common Council will review and vote on the selection of a developer for the redevelopment of the historic Weinbrenner Shoe Company facility, located at 305 West Third Street. The proposal, introduced by City Administrator Steve Barg and presented by Dave LaFontaine, Chairman of the RFQ Selection Committee, recommends J. Jeffers & Co. as the developer for the project.
The decision follows an extensive evaluation process initiated after Weinbrenner Shoe Company announced plans to relocate to its new facility in Mill Creek Business Park. With guidance from the city’s consultant, Vandewalle & Associates, the city opted for a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) approach rather than a Request for Proposals (RFP) to ensure that the selected developer aligns with Marshfield’s long-term vision for the site.
Selection Process
The city issued its RFQ on October 29, 2024, inviting over 100 firms from across the Midwest to submit their qualifications. By the December 20 deadline, five firms responded. The RFQ Selection Committee, consisting of representatives from the Common Council, the Community Development Authority (CDA), and the City Administrator, shortlisted four firms for interviews:
- Schafer Richardson
- Gorman & Co.
- J. Jeffers & Co.
- KG Development Group
After conducting interviews throughout January, the committee reached a consensus on January 31, selecting J. Jeffers & Co. as the preferred developer.
Vision for the Redevelopment
J. Jeffers & Co. proposes transforming the 90,000-square-foot historic Weinbrenner building into a mixed-use development featuring affordable residential apartments. The project includes approximately 80 units, offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations, with affordability capped at 60% of the County Median Income.
The redevelopment will also prioritize historic preservation, retaining the building’s iconic brick façade, industrial-style windows, and hand-painted signage, elements that contribute to the character of the West Second Street District.
“We are prepared to successfully repurpose the Weinbrenner Building in a manner that will contribute positively to the overall goal of making the district a vibrant, walkable, destination for residents and visitors alike. We were first introduced to this property over two years ago and are excited to see it come to market,” the company stated in their proposal. “We see the highest and best use for the Weinbrenner Building as a conversion to energy-efficient, sustainable, affordable residential apartments.”
Additional project highlights include:
- A walkable, bike-friendly environment with interior bike storage.
- Historic tax credits and other financing tools to support redevelopment.
- Collaboration with the City of Marshfield to meet local housing and economic development goals.
Next Steps
If approved by the Common Council, J. Jeffers & Co. will begin project planning immediately, including securing financing and obtaining necessary approvals. Key project milestones include:
- December 2025 – WHEDA project concept application
- March 2026 – WHEDA tax credit awards
- September 2026 – Construction begins
- December 2027 – Project completion
- January 2028 – Occupancy begins
The redevelopment of the Weinbrenner facility is expected to serve as a catalyst for further investment in the West Second Street District, reinforcing Marshfield’s efforts to enhance downtown’s vibrancy.
For more information, the public is encouraged to attend the February 11 meeting at City Hall.
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Author: News Desk
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