The Wausau River District has been recognized by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation as a Gold Tier Main Street organization for the 2026 fiscal year.
Wausau River District is one of the 37 Main Street programs across Wisconsin. Of those, only 10 have achieved this tier. To reach Gold Tier status, a program needs to demonstrate organizational effectiveness and community engagement in their downtown initiative above and beyond program requirements.
The Wausau River District is now eligible for additional services to benefit their district, and staff and board members are invited to participate in an advocacy event intended to help develop and inform additional downtown-friendly programs and policies at the state level.
The Main Street Program, enacted in 1987, provides access to resources and training to help communities pursue revitalization and redevelopment efforts. This is the Wausau River District’s 23rd year as a designated Wisconsin Main Street.
According to the Wausau River District, since joining in 2002, the downtown has welcomed new businesses, attracted over $150 million dollars in new public and private investment and launched several initiatives including a sign grant program for small business owners and the Wausau Night Market.
“Achieving Gold Tier status highlights the dedication of our staff, board, volunteers and community partners,” said Callie Wulk, Executive Director of Wausau River District. “We’re honored to be recognized at this level and excited to continue strengthening downtown Wausau through innovation, collaboration and strategic investment.”
Main Street Program participants benefit from many types of assistance and resources as part of a broad-based network of communities with similar objectives. The average Main Street participant receives $15,000 in program services on behalf of their districts.
These services include direct support such as property renderings, design assistance, strategic planning and marketing guidance. Communities benefit from expert-led workshops on downtown revitalization, as well as regular on-site visits from consultants who help with district goals like public space design, wayfinding and development planning.
“Strong, thriving communities are what makes Wisconsin a great place for people to live, work, grow and do business,” said Missy Hughes, secretary and CEO of WEDC. “WEDC congratulates Wausau River District for their commitment to successful community development.”
The Wausau River District promotes and facilitates the economic vitality and historic preservation of downtown Wausau.
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