Redeveloped idle industrial sites can again become generators for economic development and an improved quality of life for the cities and communities where they are located. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s (WEDC’s) Idle Industrial Site Redevelopment Program helps communities pursue this opportunity.
The Idle Industrial Site Redevelopment Program offers grants to Wisconsin communities for implementation of redevelopment plans for large commercial or industrial sites that have been idle, abandoned, or underutilized for a period of at least five years.
Industrial or commercial properties of 10 acres of more are eligible for grants up to $1,000,000. Industrial properties of five to 10 acres are eligible for grants up to $500,000.
Approved projects can use funds for demolition, environmental remediation, or site-specific improvements defined in the redevelopment plan to advance the site to shovel-ready status or enhance the site’s market attractiveness.
This program is an annual competitive process. Grants may be made to cities, villages, towns, redevelopment authorities, community development authorities, or other government entities for idle industrial sites exceeding 5 acres in size or commercial properties exceeding 10 acres in size where redevelopment is impeded due to existing site conditions.
Preference will be given to sites that are located in high-density urban areas or in central business districts.
An approved redevelopment plan demonstrating strong potential for significant measurable economic benefits such as increased generation of property taxes and the creation of full-time permanent jobs will increase the competitiveness of a proposed project.
Applications should be postmarked or provided electronically by December 11, 2015.