Main Street Marshfield’s Board of Directors Passes Resolution in Support of the Redeveloping of Former Weinbrenner Shoe Company

Tuesday, June 16th, 2026 -- 12:00 PM

During Main Street Marshfield’s June 3rd board meeting, the Main Street Marshfield Board of Directors passed a mission-driven resolution of the board expressing support of residential development projects in Downtown Marshfield.

The resolution was specifically targeted towards the City of Marshfield’s upcoming usage decisions for the property located at 305 W. 3rd Street in Marshfield. The City of Marshfield has discussed many possible uses for the property, including a residential development project in collaboration with Milwaukee-based residential developer J Jeffers & Company.

The Main Street Marshfield board resolution directly expressed support of this residential development partnership based on previous residential development success stories and data provided by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and Main Street America. The property was previously home to the Weinbrenner Shoe Company, which relocated to the south side of Marshfield on May 31st.

“We hope the City of Marshfield Common Council will take Main Street Marshfield’s latest board resolution into serious consideration when making decisions on how to move forward with the proposed Weinbrenner redevelopment project” stated Carter Howe, Executive Director for Main Street Marshfield.

“Downtown Marshfield will be the most impacted by this project, and with a decision of this magnitude, the City of Marshfield must ensure that Main Street Marshfield’s mission is kept in mind when moving forward”

During a City of Marshfield common council meeting on June 9th 2026, Howe provided a reading of the new Main Street Marshfield board resolution. The council unanimously passed a motion directing city staff to move negotiations with J Jeffers & Company forward, furthering the possibility of residential development on the former Weinbrenner site.

Resolution from the Main Street Marshfield Board of Directors Regarding the Weinbrenner Shoe Factory Redevelopment Project

“Main Street Marshfield, an advocate for quality downtown revitalization projects that serve our mission to energize and strengthen Downtown Marshfield, supports the proposed project between the City of Marshfield and J Jeffers & Company to redevelop the former Weinbrenner Shoe Factory into a multi-family development.

– Whereas, the board supports residential development which increases consumer spending power within walking distance of businesses in Downtown Marshfield, and increased activity during evenings and weekends.

– Whereas, the board supports historic preservation and the reuse of historic structures to
preserve the character of Downtown Marshfield and promote sustainable development.

– Whereas, consumer demand continues to grow for attainable housing options that offer the character, walkability, and authenticity of traditional downtown neighborhoods, particularly among younger residents.

– Whereas, studies indicate that the average downtown residential unit contributes approximately $12,000 annually in direct district spending and more than $22,000 in discretionary non-housing spending ($996,000 and $1,826,000 respectively at 83 units).

– Whereas, the existing structure of the former Weinbrenner building sits across the street from a walkable district close to key Downtown Marshfield infrastructure such as Wenzel Family Plaza, Pick ‘N Save, etc.

– Whereas, the 2nd Street Corridor is a key area of growth and expansion potential for Downtown Marshfield.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Main Street Marshfield supports partnerships and investments that strengthen quality of life, support local businesses, and contribute to vibrant communities through Downtown Marshfield residential density initiatives.”

Signed Carter Howe – Main Street Marshfield Executive Director, and Ben Bauer – Main Street Marshfield Board President.

(Photo courtesy of Main Street Marshfield via press release)

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