When Opportunity Meets Collaboration…
Walks downtown, like on the square in Monroe, inevitably lead to discussions about the historic buildings and the variety of styles.
One building in Monroe, the White Building, completed in 1900, has oftentimes been skipped over; in large part due to a metal awning installed in the late 1970’s. It transformed the building – which had been built as an opera house – blocking original storefronts and the Tudor Style design.
The property had been a great ornament as a “world class building.” It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on January 31, 1979, and to the state’s in 1989.
To reclaim it and respect its history while adapting to today’s needs, collaboration was needed at all levels to secure the state’s Community Development Investment Grant.
The program, started in 2013, supports community development and redevelopment efforts, primarily in downtown areas. Matching grants (up to $250,000) are awarded based on economic impact, public and private partnerships, financial need, and use of sustainable downtown development practices.
Conversations with Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and the city led property owners to submit a pre-application to WEDC. It affirmed rehabilitation and reuse of an underused and landmark building for mixed development, an emphasis on preservation, and it being a part of a vibrant downtown district.
The project is estimated to cost $650,000. The original cost to build the building was approximately $30,000 or more than $1 million today when adjusted for inflation. New windows are being installed, the façade is being restored, and ground floor offices are relocating to the second floor. Currently ten ground floor retail spaces are being filled. At least four office spaces will be created on the third floor, which had been inhabitable.
Those in downtown Monroe the last few months are already taking note of the project and the magic that can be rekindled when opportunity meets collaboration.
Photo on the left shows before restoration and photo below shows during.
