MARSHFIELD, WI (WSAU-WAOW) – Marshfield city leaders are debating options for the Marshfield Mall.
“As COVID hit, a lot of places ended up shutting down in here and I think it was on the decline,” shopper Trin Larson told WAOW-TV.
However, a revitalization could be in the works, with a proposal brought to the city Tuesday. “This isn’t the first time we’ve seen a proposal for the mall. I don’t know whether this is the second or third iteration of it,” said Marshfield City Council President Ed Wagner.
The plan from Midland Management, a firm that redevelops Wisconsin shopping centers, is proposing getting rid of walking space between stores to allow for big-box retailers to get as much space as they need. Part of the deal would also allow for fast-casual restaurants to be part of the development.
As it stands, that proposal has nothing official tied to it, and city leaders are split on it, in part because funding details are not clear.
“It’s a little bit sketchy about who’s going to do what or if and what source of assistance they’re going to be asking for from the city,” Wagner said. He adds that the city is supportive of finding new avenues for the mall, but finding the right plan will take some time.
WAOW also reached out to Mayor Lois TeStrake for comment, but she was unable to speak on the issue. For those who would like to hear Midland’s full proposal, click here.
