The Cannery District – Eau Claire’s next big redevelopment area, running along the west bank of the Chippewa River from Madison Street to the High Bridge – is inspiring some big ideas. This flyover concept video produced by Ayres Associates gives you an idea of the scope of the project, showing the potential for things like apartments, mixed-use buildings, green space, and an expansive park area with room for a playground, soccer fields, a skate park, hiking/biking trails, and a lot more.

Keep in mind that none of these features have solid plans. They simply give you an idea of size and scale and possibility.

From Ayres Associates: "The City of Eau Claire and the Redevelopment Authority hired Ayres Associates to prepare a redevelopment concept plan for the proposed Cannery District on Eau Claire's near west side. This multiple-phase project created the concept for a new park and the redevelopment concepts for transforming the Cannery District into the newest destination point in Eau Claire.

The Cannery District involves redevelopment of a foundational part of Eau Claire. Early businesses and entrepreneurs used the west bank of the Chippewa River for lumbering, furniture making, and vegetable canning. There is a rich history of the people and places at this riverside location.

In the proposed revitalization, the riverside area is to be preserved as park and open space, and new housing, senior living, and business opportunities are planned nearby."