Program to offer updates on mall redevelopment, Rib Mountain plan, innovation center – Wausau Pilot & Review

(PRESS RELEASE) WAUSAU — The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce will host a Future in Focus program at the Jefferson Street Event Center in Wausau on the morning of Tuesday, March 17. Featured speakers at the event include Noah Williams, Director of the UW’s Center for Research on the Wisconsin Economy, Ted Abernathy, Managing Partner at Economic Leadership LLC and Jim McIntyre, CEO of Greenheck and Chairperson of the Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership (GWPP).

McIntyre will offer updates on a variety of tactics related to the Greater Wausau Region Economic Development Strategic Plan. Some of the initiatives which will be highlighted include the long-term redevelopment options for the Wausau Center Mall, the development of a new talent attraction website, the Rib Mountain State Park Master Plan and the creation of an innovation center.

“We live in a rapidly changing global economy filled with disruptive technologies and fierce competition between regions and states.” said Dr. Dave Eckmann, President/CEO of the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber and the GWPP have taken steps over the last year to address the significant challenges in front of us. We have a plan for our region’s economic future which leverages the full capacity of every individual and business in our community.”

Williams and Abernathy will address the current state of the economy in the nation, Wisconsin and the Wausau area, examine labor force challenges and provide an economic forecast for 2020.

Check-in, a breakfast buffet and networking will begin at 7:30 a.m. followed by the program to be held from at 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The cost is $50 for members and $65 for non-members. Members can reserve a table of eight for $400.

To register for this event visit WausauChamber.com or call 715-845-6231.
The presenting sponsor for the program is Peoples State Bank. The platinum sponsor is The Dirks Group LLC, the silver sponsor is Wisconsin Public Service Corp, the bronze sponsors are Keller Inc, Ruder Ware LLSC and Wisconsin River Partners, the facility sponsor is Jefferson Street Event Center and the live production sponsor is JEM Productions.  Those interested in becoming sponsors for this event should contact Stacy Livernash at 715-848-5955.