Development News for Stevens Point, Wisconsin

Cultural Commons Garden Soil Contamination Update and Cleanup Plan

The board received an update on the Cultural Commons garden, noting a no-direct-contact order with the soil due to detected carcinogens (PAHs) in an adjacent area. Gardeners and staff are required to wear gloves and long sleeves when working in the area. While the DNR initially approved a cleanup plan involving rip rap and clean cap soil, the EPA has now taken over as the jurisdictional authority. The EPA is in the process of transitioning jurisdiction back to the DNR. The cleanup plan includes a sidewalk around the southern edge (serving as a bicycle path), adding soil to cap the swale, and rip rap in a low area. The rest of the garden is not impacted. The process has been ongoing for six years, and no work can commence until formal approval from the jurisdictional agent.

Gerky Park Press Box Renovation Underway with Tight Deadline

The board received an update on the renovation of the press box at Gerky Park, which is part of the final upgrade phase for the park. The project, awarded last year, commenced on Monday with a deadline of August 15th. The entire siding is being removed to expose wall cavities for insulation to meet current building codes, and any damaged structural elements will be replaced. The press box will be re-sheathed, have its metal facade reapplied, and all windows will be replaced with pre-hung units. A new rooftop unit and other elements are also included. The construction team anticipates the main structure will resemble the adjacent end wall by the end of the current week. The renovation discovered that the last two windows on both sides were an addition and did not line up structurally, indicating past modifications. The process has been complex due to the unconventional construction of the original structure, which was built on top of existing bleacher seats.

Riverfront Rendezvous Adds Drone Show, New Stage, and Returns Bingo

An update was provided on the Riverfront Rendezvous event, scheduled for July 3rd-5th. New features for this year include a drone display, described as the first in central Wisconsin, and a new 'downtown stage' to increase entertainment options. There will be three outdoor stages in total, with staggered performance times to allow attendees to move between them. Bingo, run by the Elks Lodge, will also return after a six-year hiatus, operating in the Piffner building on Saturday and Sunday from 1 PM to 3 PM, offering cash prizes. Safety plans are being finalized with police and fire departments, including tabletop exercises and aerial imagery reviews. Discussions are ongoing regarding boat traffic management, potentially relocating activities to the edge of the Wisconsin River.

Park Commission Approves Ongoing Alcohol Sales for WSP Athletics Events

The Park Commissioners reviewed and approved the ongoing authorization for alcohol sales at WSP home football and hockey games at Community Stadium and KB Willet Arena. This follows a successful one-year trial period, during which WSP Athletics reported zero alcohol-related incidents and noted a positive impact on fan behavior by reducing off-site binge drinking. The university also highlighted their role in maintaining stadium cleanliness, which eased the burden on city staff. The approval allows for perpetual authorization, with the option for the board or common council to reverse the decision if necessary. Discussions also covered the discontinuation of non-alcoholic beer sales due to low demand and adjustments to purchasing limits to prevent excessive consumption and facilitate easier access for attendees.