By City of Janesville - Febuary 20th 2024

 

JANESVILLE

On Tuesday, February 20, the City, in collaboration with the Friends of the Woodman's Center, JP Cullen, and the Janesville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, broke ground on the Woodman's Sports and Convention Center.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in the parking lot of the former Sears building at Uptown Janesville. This historic moment was commemorated with speeches from City Leaders, JP Cullen Representatives, Friends of the Woodman's Sports Center, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, and Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin.

"This project is about two things." City Manager Kevin Lahner stated, "Number one, it's the power of partnerships. The project will be a shining example of what our community can do when we all work together. Number two, it's about Janesville's grit. The resilience of the team that has shown to stay the course in the face of tremendous challenges is nothing short of amazing."

The City is excited to advance the transformative development, which studies estimate will create 228 full-time equivalent jobs, $7.2 million in personal income growth, and $23 million in annual economic impact.

"This facility will bring unlimited opportunities to the Janesville area." Governor Tony Evers said, "This is exactly the type of project that supports our local and statewide economies."

Once completed, The Woodman's Center will attract sports teams, regional and national companies, and organizations for meetings, conferences, and trade shows. At 130,000 square feet, the facility will become an economic impact driver for Janesville through job creation, revitalization, and resource conservation while increasing property values and tax revenues.

"The Woodman's Sports and Convention Center will be an economic force for the entire area," Senator Tammy Baldwin stated, "creating and supporting more than 200 good paying jobs, driving tourism, and creating tens of millions of dollars in economic impact every single year."

With construction underway, the estimated completion date is in Spring 2025.

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