Editor's Notes

Note from the Editor | Dec. 5, 2013

Nick Meyer |

Justin Vernon shakes hands with US Bank Regional President Mark Degner (with JAMF Software's Zach Halmstad looking on) after his announcement of a $100,000 pledge to the Confluence Project.
Justin Vernon shakes hands with US Bank Regional President Mark Degner (with JAMF Software's Zach Halmstad looking on) after his announcement of a $100,000 pledge to the Confluence Project.

If you’ve been in downtown Eau Claire at all in the last few weeks perhaps you’ve noticed the two huge construction cranes rising like spires of progress from the Phoenix Park area. They’re both working on the four floors of the new JAMF Software building, but right next door foundation work has also begun on the new Riverfront Terrace apartment complex. Both buildings are expected to be completed by the end of next summer. The cranes are just construction equipment, but I must admit they do add a bit of energy to the air in the neighborhood. Like something is building – not only literally of course, but also figuratively. And that’s because something is building. We’re seeing continued private investment in downtown from multiple developers and companies. The demand for downtown housing is outpacing its availability. And the continued talk and momentum growing around the Confluence Project (including a new $100,000 donation from US Bank) projects the vibe that more big things could be right around the corner. Add to all that the energy and bustle of the holidays and things feel pretty good downtown. But yes, there are challenges as well: perhaps a few too many empty storefronts and of course that nearly-abandoned hotel. But we’re clearly on the right track and those cranes are just the latest indicator of such. Hopefully we’ll be seeing more of them soon.