Fountain City Launches Community Revitalization Project With $1.7M Grant
Fountain City, WI — In a major step forward for our beloved community, the City of Fountain City is proud to announce the official launch of a comprehensive revitalization project, funded through a $1.7 million Flexible Facilities Program Grant. This exciting effort, powered by ARPA funds and administered by the Wisconsin Department of Administration, represents a bold investment in the future of our town.
Construction is scheduled to begin on July 1, 2025, with a projected completion date of October 2026. The improvements will transform and modernize the public library and auditorium space while also expanding digital connectivity and public access to essential resources yet retaining the charming historic features. With nearly 15,000 square feet of space being renovated, this project will include a public library, computer labs, a gym, conference room, and private meeting space. In addition, high-speed internet, digital equipment, public-use computers, and technology upgrades will ensure Fountain City is equipped to meet modern needs for work, learning, and health monitoring.
The success of this endeavor is thanks to the dedicated collaboration of a local committee that has stepped up to lead the way:
Current Committee Members: Mayor, Ben Adank; City Council members Christine Williamson, Peter Schaffner, and Barb Schmidtknecht; community members, Rosemary Binkley and Marjorie Kammueller; City Clerk, Marcia Larson; and Public Works Director, Gil Adams.
The team responsible for collaborating on the initial grant application are Kathryn Jargo, Ramona Redig, Gwen Katula, John Schlesselmann, Christine Williamson, Jen Tepovich, Ben Adank, Marj Kammueller and Rosemary Binkley.
Supporting Teams: River Architects, led by Val Schute, is bringing vision and design expertise to the table for the architectural and engineering services. Cedar Corp will serve as the grant administration consulting firm, overseeing subcontractors, bid processes, and project flow. The city has a solid working relationship with Cedar Corp from previous collaborations.
This grant not only empowers us to renovate key public buildings but also allows us to enhance community access to broadband internet, critical for remote work, telehealth, and education in today’s digital age. The scope of this project is as much about revitalization as it is about preservation, ensuring our facilities meet the needs of today while honoring the heart of our city.
This initiative is an important reminder of what we can achieve when citizens, city officials, and local organizations come together with purpose. Our gratitude extends to everyone involved, from the planning stages to the boots on the ground. The pride we take in Fountain City is matched only by the excitement for what’s ahead.
We will continue to provide updates as progress is made. For now, join us in celebrating this significant milestone and the opportunities it brings to current and future generations of Fountain City residents.
For more information, contact: Marcia Larson at info@fountaincitywi.gov, 608-409-3200 or go to www.fountaincitywi.gov.
Together, we are building a brighter, more connected, and resilient Fountain City. Let’s cherish it, invest in it, and prepare it for generations to come.