Artist rendering of a new City Hall complex in Stevens Point. Image courtesy: City of Stevens Point
STEVENS POINT, WI (WSAU) — Leaders in Stevens Point got a chance to see the building that could become their new City Hall in the summer of 2027.
Justin Marquis with Sommerville Architects says they’ve worked to incorporate history in the design, including elements that pay homage to the former Weber Tackle building that once sat on the site.
“The site is located within the parameters of the downtown historic district. We took some of those things into account to pay homage to the industrial nature of the site,” said Marquis. “Using a lot of brick, stone, metal- things that are indicative of the other buildings downtown as well as the historical and manufacturing nature [of the area].”
Commissioners also got a look at the proposed layout of the city offices and Council Chambers. They will also incorporate natural lighting in the lobby area to create a welcoming atmosphere for residents and employees.
Marquis said they’ve also tried to incorporate green space to create a “pocket park between the new City Hall, the county building, and all the other larger buildings around. It creates a little nicer sense of scale.”
Boulders could also be placed near guest parking areas for both looks and functionality. Marquis says they could help slow down or stop a moving vehicle that could be headed towards the building.
Both groups voted the proposal forward, with the Historic Preservation and Design Review Commission approving the plans. The Plan Commission then ordered a site plan review. That work will be done while crews begin demolition of the building currently sitting on the site. Significant demolition is expected in the next two months, and if all goes to plan, construction on the site could begin this summer.
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Mayor Mike Wiza says a new building will be more efficient for staff and residents. He notes that some permitting processes currently involve multiple trips between floors. The building will also be planned with growth in mind, allowing for additional floors or a bigger footprint if needed.
The building at the site was owned by the county, but came under city control late last year as part of a land swap deal. That calls for the city to vacate the current City Hall site, allowing the county to upgrade and expand the courthouse.
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