City of Marshfield Issues Revised RFQ for Weinbrenner Show Company

Wednesday, October 1st, 2025 -- 9:01 AM

The City of Marshfield formally issues a revised Request for Qualifications (RFQ) seeking a qualified development team to transform the iconic Weinbrenner Shoe Company building into a vibrant mixed‑use destination aligned with the West Second Street District Redevelopment Plan.

The Weinbrenner facility, listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places and in continuous operation for nearly 90 years, is expected to be vacated when Weinbrenner relocates to its new facility in the spring of 2026.

The City plans to partner with a developer who can bring a dynamic, market‑rate reuse that furthers downtown’s walkability, vitality, and heritage preservation goals.

Project Vision & Goals

• Reinforce the Weinbrenner building as a signature anchor in the West Second Street corridor, helping to catalyze further downtown reinvestment.
• Encourage mixed uses on the site, including residential, retail, hospitality, cultural, or community space (with ground-floor activation).
• Preserve the building’s historic character — including its masonry façades, industrial fenestration, structural elements, and signage.
• Incorporate high-quality design, sustainability features, and pedestrian-oriented site planning.
• Collaborate with the City, adjacent properties, and infrastructure to enhance connectivity, improve parking, and enhance streetscape improvements.

RFQ responses due: November 7, 2025

All project-related questions and responses should be directed to Steve Barg, City Administrator, at this address. The City intends to review submissions, conduct interviews or follow-up, and ultimately negotiate a development agreement consistent with the City’s vision.

Why This Matters

“This revised RFQ reflects the City’s desire to see the Weinbrenner building reimagined in a way that not only preserves its heritage, but also activates our downtown and enriches our city’s future,” said Steve Barg, City Administrator.

“We are seeking a partner who shares a vision for creating a walkable, exciting corridor in the West Second Street District, one that draws people downtown, fosters economic activity, and respects our historic legacy.”

The Weinbrenner redevelopment is a key component of the West Second Street District Redevelopment Plan, a strategic effort by the City to revitalize this gateway zone.

The City views this project as a catalyst for continued development, placemaking, and downtown infill.

(Photo provided by City of Marshfield via press release)

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.