WHAT'S NEXT? Downtown Eau Claire's scene-boosting and advocacy organization, DECI, is hosting a free-to-attend event on Tuesday, Feb. 10, to facilitate conversation around the current status and future of downtown. (Eau Claire Fall Festival, hosted by DECI, pictured)

Just over a year since Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. (DECI) officially separated itself from the City of Eau Claire – following a 22-year history as an intertwined, “public-private” organization – the downtown advocacy group is making strides towards its next chapter.

DECI is currently in the process of becoming an official Main Street organization through the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). Becoming a Main Street org requires a year-long application process and, if approved, would lead to support from WEDC by way of technical assistance – on-site board and committee training, strategic planning support, design and event impact assistance, geofencing data and more.

As noted in a recent media release, the move comes as downtown Eau Claire “continues to change and as many small businesses face increasing pressure.”

"Downtown is at an important crossroads. We have seen incredible revitalization over the past decade, but we also know many businesses are struggling more than ever."

ERIN KLAUS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF DECI, OWNER OF TANGLED UP IN HUE

The announcement highlighted a forthcoming public event, “The Future of Downtown,” presented by DECI and WEDC.

Downtown stakeholders and community members are invited to learn more about resources and support offered by WEDC as well as conversation around “the next 5–10 years” of downtown Eau Claire. The discussion will be held at 12pm on Tuesday, Feb. 10 and hosted at the Menomonie Market Food Co-op in Eau Claire (206 N. Barstow St.).

DECI's former structure – heavily intertwined with the City of Eau Claire and its staff – was unique. If approved by WEDC, the Eau Claire nonprofit would join neighboring communities like Menomonie and Chippewa Falls, which already have Main Street organizations.

“Downtown is at an important crossroads,” DECI Executive Director and local business owner, Erin Klaus, said.

“We have seen incredible revitalization over the past decade, but we also know many businesses are struggling more than ever. Partnering with WEDC and pursuing Main Street designation is about making sure we have the right tools and support in place to meet this moment and place for the future together,” she added.

“The Future of Downtown” event, presented by DECI and WEDC, will be hosted at 12pm on Tuesday, Feb. 1o at the Menomonie Market Food Co-op in Eau Claire.