Market On River, a transformative project by the Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU), has been honored with an economic development award from Momentum West. The 2024 Redevelopment of the Year Award recognizes WFU’s role in contributing towards the revitalizing downtown Chippewa Falls with the Market On River project. Market On River breathes new life into a historic riverfront building, turning it into a hub for local businesses, food entrepreneurs, and a larger sense of community.
More than just a historic redevelopment, Market On River encapsulates WFU’s mission to improve the lives of rural farmers and Wisconsinites by offering economic opportunity, local food accessibility, and community engagement. The space will serve as a platform for local farmers, entrepreneurs, and cooperatives – strengthening West Central Wisconsin’s agricultural and rural economy.
Greenfire played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life. As the construction manager, Greenfire leveraged its expertise in historic preservation projects to renovate the 45,000 SF space while maintaining its historic architectural character. Their diligent planning and execution ensured that the project met both WFU’s functional needs and long-term growth goals.
Market On River opened its doors in late 2024, and now houses WFU’s new corporate headquarters, retail and conference spaces, a food hall, and residential apartments. The project is a major milestone of Chippewa Falls’ downtown resurgence – driving economic growth, job creation, and community engagement. The project aims to welcome back families, residents, tourists, and businesses to an area of Chippewa Fall’s central business district that was once neglected. In part because of this project, the area is rapidly becoming known for its two large outdoor music festivals, and community engagement activities which take place across the street.
The health of Chippewa Falls residents is a major concern for the community: high rates of diabetes, heart disease and obesity are present, and food insecurity—especially among children and the elderly—is prevalent. Market On River is interested and willing to invest time, resources, and expertise to improve these economic and health outcomes in Chippewa Falls. Although there is a solid resource base— organizations, programs, initiatives, and stakeholders interested in diversifying and developing the local food system and increasing access to healthy food choices through a variety of means—having a place that generates educational interest was a constant challenge. The WFU has developed educational programs for all aspects of food and farm development, including health, wellness, and business development housed at Market on River. The Chippewa Distillery, The Ritz, and the Sheeley House local staples have already benefited from this WFU expansion project.
Momentum West was eager to name the project their 2024 Redevelopment of the Year, recognizing the positive economic impact that Market On River will provide to West Central Wisconsin.
Market On River is not just a redevelopment success story—it’s a model for how thoughtful investment and collaboration can shape a thriving future for Wisconsin’s small communities.
Pictured in the award photo (Left to Right)
Charlie Walker, CEO, Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation
Tim Sandstrom, Royal Credit Union, Chair of Momentum West
Jackie Boos, Facilities Manager, Wisconsin Farmers Union
Julie Bomar, Executive Director, Wisconsin Farmers Union
Danielle Endvick, Director of Development, Wisconsin Farmers Union
Maureen Carlson, Regional Business Development Manager, Greenfire
Darin Von Ruden, Chair of Wisconsin Farmers Union
Steve Jahn, Director, Momentum West
Read more about Wisconsin Farmers Union: Market On River Here
