WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — A proposed indoor event space and mocktail lounge in Wausau has been delayed.
The city’s Economic Development Committee approved a one-year extension to the deed restriction with the developers on Wednesday. Economic Development Manager Randy Fifrick says the developers have uncovered several issues with the building. “They’ve been fixing the roof, [there are issues] with the HVAC
Because of the roofing delays the development team has put off plans for a rooftop solar array and rainwater collection system. Those will now be completed sometime after the complete roof repair is done. Other issues the developers listed include a delay in finding a contractor to complete the indoor green space.
Other areas of the project facing delays include storage and the kitchen area.
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Fifrick adds that the developers, Mathew and Kristen Aschbrenner, remain committed to the project. “We’ve been in communication with them over the last year to talk through some of the issues they’ve been having. It was an old building, and there’s a lot that goes on with that, so they are taking their time.”
The vision for the building hasn’t changed. They still plan to offer an indoor green space for parties or business meetings along with natural syrups and a mocktail bar. Fifrick says he could see the area being a big hit during the winter.
“We know winter can last a few months here in Wisconsin so we are excited to have a nice place that kind of cheers you up and gives you a positive vibe. They have a whole bunch of awesome things planned, so we are excited,” added Fifrick.
The city awarded the property at 180 E Wausau Avenue to the Aschbrenners last summer. The original deed restriction had called for occupancy by August 19th of this year. Assuming the council approves the proposed change next week, the date will be moved to August 19th, 2024.
