Next Athletic Park-area upgrades in the works
WAUSAU - Baseball fans might notice a new round of improvements next year near Athletic Park, home of the Wisconsin Woodchucks.
A Wausau committee has recommended that the city contribute to the next phase of development around the field.
Woodchucks owner Mark Macdonald bought two properties on Third Street this year that he hopes to improve with about $1 million in renovations. He asked the city for funding from a special tax district which could cover up to $95,000.
"At the dollar figure involved, I need some help," Macdonald told the Economic Development Committee.
Without city aid, he would skip the office renovation and use his building at 2401 Third St. only for storage. With city help, Macdonald plans to make the 10,000-square-foot building into a new office space, plus storage. Eventually he plans to add a clubhouse there for visiting teams to use.
Macdonald asked the city for "reverse" tax increment financing. He would cover all the initial costs of construction and site improvements. The city would reimburse Macdonald for any new tax revenue generated from his improved properties over the course of 10 years. That could add up to $95,000.
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Another property in Macdonald's plan, 2307 Third St., already has been demolished and will be used for office and fan parking during games. He bought the two Third Street properties in late August for $285,000, according to city documents. The properties are just north of the baseball stadium.
In the spring the Woodchucks finished and revealed phase 2 of renovations, which upgraded seating and restrooms and added luxury suites and a concession stand. Macdonald previously donated property and money to turn two lots next to the ballpark into a neighborhood park.
The Woodchucks' offices are downtown but space is getting tight. The full-time staff has doubled from three to six and the summer office staff doubled from 10 to 20, Macdonald told the committee Tuesday.
City leaders praised Macdonald's past work and future plans on Tuesday. City Council President Lisa Rasmussen said his efforts add value to the neighborhood and remove blight.
"I think that momentum needs to continue," she said.
The City Council may review Macdonald's funding request as soon as next week. He said construction probably will start this winter.
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Nora G. Hertel: nora.hertel@gannettwisconsin.com or 715-845-0665; on Twitter @nghertel.